BP's international advisory board advises the chairman, group chief executive and the board on geopolitical and strategic issues relating to the company. In 2013, these included events in the Middle East, the US budget deficit and BP’s activities in Azerbaijan and North Africa. Chaired by BP’s previous chairman, Peter Sutherland, the group’s membership in 2013 included Kofi Annan, Lord Patten of Barnes, Josh Bolten, President Romano Prodi, Dr Ernesto Zedillo and Dr Javier Solana. The group meets twice a year, although its members are on hand to provide advice and counsel when needed.