We are delighted to share that Guri Melby, leader of the Liberal Party (Venstre) will be the first speaker at our upcoming event on the complex and evolving role of China on the world stage.
How afraid should we be of China?
• Date: Tuesday 27th, May 2025
• Time: 17.00 – 20:30
• Place: DLA Piper, Bryggegata 6, 0250 Oslo
As China’s global influence continues to grow, the implications for international business are profound. From trade and technology to politics, finance, and legal frameworks, this event will explore how shifting global dynamics are shaping the strategic environment for companies today.
Updated Speakers list:
Guri Melby
The current leader of the Liberal Party (Venstre). She has been a Member of Parliament for Oslo since 2021 and serves as the second vice chair of the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and Defence. Melby served as Minister of Education and Integration from March 2020 to October 2021 in Prime Minister Erna Solberg’s government.
Her political career began in local government, serving on the municipal councils of Orkdal (1999–2007) and Trondheim (2007–2011). She was Oslo’s City Commissioner for Transport and the Environment from 2013 to 2015. Melby holds a master’s degree in Nordic language and literature from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) and has a background in education and public service. As party leader since September 2020, she has emphasised liberal values, environmental sustainability, and international cooperation.
Cathrin Bretzeg
The Chief People & Culture Officer at HydrogenPro, bringing over two decades of leadership experience across human resources, communications, and sustainability. She joined the company in 2023, following senior roles at Glitre Nett, Magseis Fairfield ASA, Kongsberg Digital, and others. Bretzeg also has a notable political background, having served as State Secretary in the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development under Prime Minister Kjell Magne Bondevik.
Nathan Bush
A Partner at DLA Piper in Singapore, where he leads the Antitrust and Competition, and International Trade practices for Asia. With more than two decades of experience, he advises multinational clients on antitrust investigations, trade compliance, and anti-corruption matters, including FCPA enforcement and internal investigations. A Harvard Law graduate and fluent Mandarin speaker, he was previously based in Beijing and has been a key figure in shaping China’s competition law landscape. Bush is widely recognised by legal directories and has held leadership roles in regional business and legal associations.
Gørild Merethe Heggelund, PHD
A Research Professor at the Fridtjof Nansen Institute, specialising in China’s environmental, energy, and climate policies for over 30 years. She leads two major research projects on critical minerals in the Arctic and China’s role in global environmental governance. A fluent Chinese speaker with 17 years’ experience in China, she has served as Senior Climate Change Advisor at UNDP China and is currently an international expert for the China Council for International Cooperation on Environment and Development (CCICED).
Geir Hågen Karlsen
Associated partner in Communications at Geelmuyden Kiese (GK), advising on geopolitics, security, and strategic communication. With nearly 40 years in the Norwegian Armed Forces, he served as a lieutenant colonel and was the leading expert on influence operations and strategic communication, including roles at the Defence University College and the Chief of Defence’s Crisis Staff.
Bernt J. Berg – Nielsen
A Norwegian investor and portfolio manager at Stolt Kapitalforvaltning, where he manages the Stolt Explorer fund. His investment philosophy is deeply influenced by Warren Buffett, emphasising long-term value creation and disciplined capital allocation. Berg-Nielsen is known for his global investment approach, with a particular focus on Nordic markets, and regularly shares insights on investment strategies and market trends.
In addition to his professional endeavours, Berg-Nielsen is an active participant in the investment community, often engaging in discussions and interviews to share his perspectives on investing and life principles.
Moderator: Håkon Borud
A Partner and Senior Communications Advisor at First House, bringing extensive experience from journalism and strategic communications. He has held key editorial positions at prominent Norwegian newspapers, including Aftenposten. Since transitioning to communications in 2016, Borud has specialised in guiding organisations through change processes, digital transformation, and media relations.
In addition to his role as partner at First House, Borud serves as Chair of the British-Norwegian Chamber of Commerce (BNCC), a position he has held since 2022. He has been instrumental in strengthening UK-Norway business relations, particularly in energy security and critical infrastructure.
Spaces are now limited, so we encourage you to secure your place today!
We look forward to welcoming you.
Summit RSVP