The Dutch policy on development cooperation has recently undergone some important changes. The number of countries receiving bilateral development cooperation has decreased drastically. Development cooperation should be the catalyst for economic growth leading to financial independence for these countries. The Dutch business community plays an important role in fulfilling this ambition.

· Why now these changes in the Dutch development cooperation policy?

· Will companies start giving development aid?

· What role can or should education play in all this?

These questions will be addressed in a public debate on November 7 on ‘Business development opportunities in developing countries and emerging economies: the role of government, business and education?’. Minister for European Affairs and International Cooperation, Ben Knapen will share his views on the role of the government, Fokko Wientjes, Director Sustainable Development & Program Director DSM-WFP partnership at DSM will discuss the point of view of the business community. Subsequently Ben Knapen en Fokko Wientjes will enter into discussion with the audience and Paul Engel, Director van het European Centre for Development Policy Management (ECDPM). Moderator of the debate will is Valentina Mazzucato, Professor of Globalization and Development of the University Maastricht.