Malvika: “First of all Prof. Evans, I would like to thank you for agreeing to this interview”.

Prof. Colin Evans: “You’re welcome”

Malvika: “I understand that you are going to be returning to India in the near future? Were your negotiations in India successful on your visit here in 2010?”

Prof. Colin Evans: “Absolutely yes. As you will know, I represent countries in need of investment and growth. Many opportunities exist and there is a strong appetite in India for investment into projects abroad. So the previous consortium has invited me back to pitch again”

Malvika: “So do you provide investment opportunities only for consortiums, or are these investments available to individuals as well?”

Prof. Colin Evans: “Usually consortiums, because I tend to deal with large investment projects.

But I do deal with some individuals who can afford to make substantial investments on their own.”

Malvika: “You are often labeled by the media as the ‘world’s leading freelance diplomat’. What is the secret to your success and why do Governments trust you to represent their trade & investment opportunities?”

Prof. Colin Evans: “I guess the secret is due to being honest with both parties in a transaction. It is that simple. A failed transaction is not a profitable transaction. I do things by the book. I guess in cricket terms, you could say that I play a “straight bat”. In trade diplomacy, playing a straight bat is crucial. It’s good to have a ‘middle man’ that both parties trust. Freelance Diplomats are paid for results, not failure. Secondly, I would say due diligence. I always like to know who I am dealing with. That’s why I have never failed a client on either side of a deal.”

Malvika: “How do Governments contact you?”

Prof. Colin Evans: “Mainly through personal recommendation. My contact details are normally already known to the kinds of people who seek my services. Plus I can easily be contacted via the intergovernmental organisation EUCLID website www.euclid.int where I serve as Commissioner for Economic Development and Trade Diplomacy and as Adjunct Professor of Trade Diplomacy at Euclid University.”

Professor and Diplomat, Colin Evans speaking with Princess Lea of Belgium (right)
and Mrs. Bernadette Reyntjens – Director of Diplomatic World Magazine (middle)
Brussels, Jan. 2011

Malvika: “What are the usual sorts of trade that Governments ask you to promote?”

Prof. Colin Evans: “There are just too many to list. But the most popular are oil, mining operations, technologies, gold and Kimberly Process Certified diamonds. I will promote anything that is legally sourced.”

Malvika: “You are known for associating with some very influential people in your work. But with whom would you say was your most enjoyable encounter so far?”

Prof. Colin Evans: “Most enjoyable? That is a tough one! I think I’ve enjoyed probably all these sorts of encounters because they have each had different qualities which I admire and respect. I have met so many amazing people, but I guess most memorable; that has got to be the HM The Queen of England.

The most erudite; Sir Malcolm Rifkind, former Defence Secretary and Foreign Secretary of the UK and who currently Chairs the UK Intelligence and Security Committee. Probably the best Prime Minister that Britain ‘never’ had. The wittiest; that can only be HRH Prince Philip, he has a real good sense of humour which can be misunderstood at times by the media.

The most down-to-earth; I would say, Bertie Ahern, the former Prime Minister (Taoiseach) of Ireland. He loved to just sit down and chat about football over a beer. He is a keen Manchester United fan.”

Malvika: “In what areas do you see the most potential in the near term?”

Prof. Colin Evans: “Obviously technology and commodities such as food, fuel and strategic metals are always areas of interest for a trade diplomat. But we should not lose sight of the importance of educational opportunities, especially those which look to offer opportunities through new technologies and delivery methods that can be accessed globally. Harnessing the sheer productivity of people through the promotion of Micro-Development is, in my view, the best way to lift people out of poverty, lessen the dependency upon state coffers and international aid and endow them with personal dignity. This applies particularly to India which has a wealth in its citizenry which is known for its ability to ‘do the needful’. Investment in your people is crucial. They will often surprise you with their ingenuity.”

Malvika: “One final question if you don’t mind. If you had all the world’s leaders sat in front of you right now. What would you say are the 3 most fundamental things a country should do to ensure prolonged economic stability?”

Prof. Colin Evans: “1. Promote family values in your citizens. I don’t mean in the hackneyed way this phrase is used by western politicians. I see the strength of a society, its main building block, as being an educated, informed, capable, healthy and responsible citizen working to maintain and better the lot of his or her family. A stable and nurturing upbringing is the foundation to a prosperous population. Take my own circumstances. I have been fortunate to be part of a strong and stable family and although I seem to attract all the limelight I have a capable and professional Team behind me. My three brothers, Darren, Gary and Glen are also Commercial Diplomats and without their support my job would be impossible. Investment in your people is crucial. They will often surprise you with their ingenuity. 2. Respect the opinions and advice of your Armed Forces, from the highest ranks right through to the lowest. Use them wisely and never frivolously. 3. Unless you are an arms dealer, War is bad for business.”

Malvika: Professor Evans. It has been a real privilege to interview you today. Thank you again, and I wish you continued success in your future.

Prof. Colin Evans: “Likewise. You’re welcome”.

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