Event Report

NIICE Nepal organized a special session on NATO's prospects, coinciding with the 2024 NATO Summit, which marked the alliance's 75th anniversary. Held in Washington D.C. from July 9-11, the Summit brought together esteemed experts and policymakers to explore NATO's challenges and opportunities. Mr. Pramod Jaiswal, a renowned expert in international relations, moderated the session.

Professor Amit Gupta, Senior Advisor to the Forum of Federation, Ottawa, Canada, delivered the keynote address. He provided an in-depth analysis of NATO's evolution from a defensive unit in Europe to a global security order. Professor Gupta emphasized the alliance's dependence on the United States, citing Europe's aging population and reduced military budgets. He also highlighted the challenges NATO faces, including Russia's aggression and China's rising influence.

The keynote address was followed by a panel discussion featuring experts from various backgrounds. The debate centered on NATO's role in the Indo-Pacific region, support for Ukraine, and strategies for addressing China's growing influence. Panelists concurred on the importance of continued cooperation among NATO member countries and key partners in addressing emerging global security concerns. They also emphasized the need for NATO to adapt to new challenges, such as cybersecurity threats and disinformation.

Attendees praised the event for providing valuable insights into NATO's prospects and challenges. Feedback highlighted Professor Gupta's in-depth analysis, the expert panel discussion, and the relevance of topics addressed. Recommendations for future events include exploring strategic partnerships, emerging challenges, and global security implications. The session also underscored the importance of fostering dialogue between policymakers, academics, and industry experts to address complex security challenges.

The special session on NATO's prospects successfully provided a platform for meaningful discussion and analysis. As NATO continues to evolve, events like this are crucial for fostering cooperation and addressing the complex security challenges facing the alliance. NIICE Nepal's initiative demonstrated its commitment to promoting informed discourse on critical global issues.

The event concluded with a networking session, providing attendees with opportunities to engage with experts and policymakers. The success of the special session underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing global security challenges.