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I Attended Speeches of European Leaders — What They Want from 2024 & Beyond
Over the weekend, I had the great pleasure of working (more precisely, interning) at the GLOBSEC 2024 Forum (31 September - 1 August). I was able to listen and attend speeches by a number of presidents and prime ministers, including the Czech, Swedish, Albanian, and other leaders.
The Forum, under the patronage of Czech President Petr Pavel, centered around the theme “Taming the Storm,” with an emphasis on central and eastern Europe’s crucial role in maintaining global stability.
It attracted more than 2,300 participants from more than 80 countries including heads of state and businesses, diplomats, journalists, and more. It was a record attendance and the third time I have been at the event.
Let me discuss some highlights.
The opening remarks at the Forum by the President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, had to be a core highlight for me.
In it, she discussed the need for ongoing support for Ukraine, a stronger European defense strategy, and plans to appoint a dedicated Defence Commissioner.
She said that while NATO and U.S. support are vital, Europe must take primary responsibility for its own security.
“We Europeans have many different histories…
