Strategic Dialogues

ELNET sponsors Strategic Dialogues that engage leading experts and ranking officials from Israel and Europe in informal dialogues and discussion beyond the constraints of inter-governmental relations. These "Track II diplomacy" forums provide a safe environment that encourages participants to develop breakthrough ideas and engage in joint brainstorming towards enhanced bilateral cooperation and relationship building.

-

First Annual France-Israel Strategic Dialogue, Caesarea, Israel – July 2009

Leading French and Israeli experts in the fields of national security, foreign policy, and nuclear energy came together for the first France-Israel Strategic Dialogue held . in cooperation with FRS (Foundation pour la Recherche Strategique) and INSS (Institute for National Security Studies), leading research institutes in France and Israel.
Participants included French and Israeli experts and officials from the countries’ Ministries of Defense, Ministries of Foreign Affairs, and the Atomic Energy Commissions. Panels on pressing issues such as the Iranian challenge, global terrorism, Middle East peace process, and the role of Europe/NATO in the region allowed for a fruitful exchange, producing ideas and concepts that will be considered by French and Israeli policy makers and senior government officials in the course of their work for years to come. The dialogue was followed by a visit for the French participants to strategic sites in Israel, allowing them to witness firsthand some of the challenges facing Israel today and to meet with senior Israeli officials.

-

Building on the success of the 2010 Strategic Dialogue, the second edition brought together more than 40 senior decision makers and security experts from Israel and France. Issues discussed included: