Building Alliances for a Stronger Future: Insights from IDU Dinner in Washington, D.C

Samuel Group DC’s President and CEO, Goran Samuel Pesic, had the honor of attending a captivating dinner event hosted by the International Democracy Union (IDU) in Washington, D.C. from December 3-5, 2024. The December 4 evening dinner featured a keynote address from President-elect Donald Trump’s incoming National Security Adviser, Mike Waltz, who shared his vision for the future of American foreign and defense policy.

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‍A Call for Shared Responsibility in Global Security

‍In his address, Mike Waltz delivered a clear and urgent message: the United States can no longer bear a disproportionate share of the global security burden. He emphasized that NATO’s 2% GDP defense spending target is not merely aspirational—it is an obligation. Allied nations must act decisively to meet this benchmark, enabling the U.S. to focus on its strategic priorities, particularly in the Indo-Pacific, Caribbean, and Latin America.

By addressing pressing geopolitical challenges, such as countering adversaries and mitigating threats like immigration and narcotics trafficking, Waltz outlined the necessity of burden-sharing to strengthen collective defense efforts.

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‍Rethinking Global Institutions and Alliances

‍Waltz also took aim at the limitations of traditional international institutions, such as the United Nations, in addressing today’s complex challenges. He advocated for alliances of like-minded nations that prioritize shared security and economic interests. Access to American markets and defense protections, he argued, must come with reciprocal commitments and deeper responsibility from allied nations.

This approach underscores a shift toward actionable partnerships that deliver tangible results in addressing global threats.

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‍Early Engagement from Allies

‍With Senator Marco Rubio expected to take the helm as Secretary of State, Waltz underscored the importance of early and robust engagement from Canada, Europe, and Indo-Pacific allies. The Trump administration is poised to hit the ground running, and allied nations are expected to collaborate actively from day one.

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‍IDU as a Facilitator

‍The IDU dinner served as a powerful reminder of the importance of collaboration and mutual responsibility among allies. As the Trump administration begins its term, the Samuel Group remains committed to fostering strong partnerships and advocating for policies that promote stability, security, and shared prosperity.