ELIGIBILITY FOR CONNEX
The CONNEX Support Unit’s advisory services are open to governments of developing countries and economies in transition that are seeking support in negotiating or renegotiating large-scale, complex investment contracts in the extractive sector. Advisory services can be requested during all phases of the negotiation process, including pre- and post-negotiation. The CONNEX Support Unit Secretariat assists interested parties to verify their eligibility.
THE FIRST STEP
Government ministries or authorities responsible for the negotiation of large-scale commercial contracts or investment agreements send an informal email to the CONNEX Support Unit. The Unit starts by explaining how CONNEX can generally assist and then discusses more specifically the scope and content of potential support.
SUBMITTING A FORMAL REQUEST
The government submits a formal request via email to CONNEX. It should include background information on the project, the specific advisory services needed and a proposed timeline.
Approval of request
Each request is carefully assessed in various internal due diligence checks. Once these checks are completed successfully, the requesting government receives an official approval letter. The exchange of request and approval letters serves as the official agreement between the government and the CONNEX Support Unit. At this stage, the CONNEX Support Unit and the requesting government discuss in greater detail what kind of expertise is needed and agree on appropriate advisory services.
ADVISORY SUPPORT
Experts, who are highly specialized in the field under discussion, deliver remote and on-site support in a timely manner. Throughout the process, the CONNEX Support Unit ensures that the requesting country’s specific needs provide the primary guidance for recommendations and provision of support.