Our speaker this month will be former diplomat (and now Deputy Mayor of South Wairarapa) Rob Taylor. He is to speak to us about the tangled and tension-ridden Middle East Peace Process. When this year opened the world’s attention seemed to be on Greenland, and the long-sought goal of peace in the Middle East appeared to be lost in the wreckage of Gaza.

Rob Taylor was a professional diplomat and has served in our Embassies in Saudi Arabia and Iraq, along with service in the Pacific and North America. He rose to be Deputy High Commissioner and Head of Post in London before being appointed as Deputy Secretary Europe, Middle East and Africa, and Australia, in Wellington. He completed his career as Deputy Chief Executive of MFAT and a member of the Ministry’s Senior Leadership Team.
Rob retired in 2025, but his long career has enabled him to see at first hand the competing issues and national rivalries that all impact on the prospect of peace in the Middle East. His presentation to our Branch will examine where the peace process currently stands in light of developments such as the Trump Administration’s “Peace to Prosperity” plan, the recent conflict in Gaza, and broader shifts in regional dynamics. The Middle East Peace Process has long been a central concern of international diplomacy, yet these recent events have called into question whether the traditional frameworks remain viable. Have the realities on the ground diverged from the assumptions that underpinned earlier peace efforts, including the two-state solution? What does this mean for future diplomatic engagement?

The usual rules of public discourse apply. Coffee and tea are available from 7pm. Non-members are welcome, with a $5 koha – so bring a friend! High school or UCOL students are welcome with free entry.

And members, please note that our AGM will be held on Thursday 19 March at Rosewood, before our presentation from Sirous Amerian. A strong attendance is needed, as this is your chance to influence the direction of our Branch.