“A World in Crisis—How Can Smart Power Make a Difference?” will focus on the diplomacy tools countries can use to improve international stability, [...] “It’s the cluster of things which make up soft power,” he said, “whether that’s public diplomacy, cultural diplomacy, cultural relations, nation branding—whateever you want to call it—and how it can be used effectively.”

These certainly aren’t normal hours for the renowned French-Tunisian creative, whose work graces walls, bridges, rooftops, and other structures and surfaces on nearly every continent. Though eL Seed normally splits his time between Paris and Dubai, he’s in London to paint a large mural commissioned by the British Council for the Shubbak festival, a celebration of contemporary Arab culture.

Cookstown firm CDE Global is strengthening its global links through an international exchange scheme in conjunction with the British Council. The manufacturing plant has recently taken on five international students through IAESTE, (the International Association for the Exchange of Students for Technical Experience), a program that helps STEM students gain technical experience overseas.

Scotland could have a significant presence in the cultural events surrounding the Olympics in Brazil next year as well as Tokyo in 2020, The National can reveal. Culture chiefs from both countries confirmed Scotland could play a part in the events after they paid fact-finding visits to the Edinburgh festivals.

This story serves as a reminder that culture and education have long played a crucial role in Britain’s standing in the region – creating opportunities for people who are affected by conflict and preserving their cultural and educational institutions.