Rules based international order, set up in the wake of Second World War, is challenged by state and non-state actors in many aspects. Transatlantic bond, which is one of the main pillars of this order, is not immune from these challenges. Beyond the Horizon International Strategic Studies Group (ISSG), believes that a robust transatlantic cooperation is vital in the face of emerging security challenges to international world order. We do not favour transactional relations which would lead to a zero-sum game, but a mutually beneficial two-way road that would foster both sides of the Atlantic. As a matter of fact, more dialogue and interaction are needed to that end. Thus, the aim of the event is to provide a platform in order to facilitate transatlantic dialogue. Beyond the Horizon visits the topic in a regular basis. Last year, at New Horizons Symposium 2018, the focus was on « Emerging Trends Reshaping the International Security » where academics, officials as well as representatives from the NGOs discussed the collapse of liberal world order and expansion of future conflict domains. New Horizons Summit 2019, accordingly, will cover the future of transatlantic defence cooperation with a special focus on emerging mega trends, security challenges and disruptive technologies with a banner headline « Future of Transatlantic Defence Cooperation Summit ».

The subject is very timely and relevant while defence industries from both sides of the Atlantic strive for ways to cooperate. The US defence industry, for instance, keeps abreast of PESCO and EDF as well as third state participation therein, whereas, the implementation of Third Offset Strategy and “Buy American Act” are two areas of concern for EU defence industry. Thus, this summit would be a perfect opportunity for a more constructive dialogue. With these two consecutive annual landmark events, Beyond the Horizon aspires to provide unique annual platforms for politicians, academics and defence industry representatives as well as the civil society across the Euro-Atlantic region to discuss and provide solutions for the most pressing issues of our time and future.