NATIONAL OFFICE CONFERENCE
Pluralism, Security, and the Future of the Transatlantic Alliance
PRESENTED IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE KONRAD ADENAUER FOUNDATION CANADA & THE GLOBAL CENTRE FOR PLURALISM
June 25, 2025
The Global Centre for Pluralism
330 Sussex Drive, Ottawa, ON
Prepare for Insightful Discussions and Global Perspectives
This conference will explore the intersection of pluralism, security, and transatlantic partnerships in an evolving global order. Emphasizing Germany’s pivotal role within the European Union and its commitment to democratic values, the discussions will assess how Canada and Germany, as well as other G7 countries can collaborate to strengthen inclusive societies and enhance stability.
Agenda
Wednesday June 25, 2025
08.30-09.30: Registration, Breakfast and Networking
09.30-09.45: Welcome speech by Dr. Althusmann (KAS Canada)
09.45-11.00: Panel 1- Post-G7 Summit relations and the Future of Transatlantic Alliance
11.00-11.15: Break
11.15-12.30: Panel 2 – Pluralism and Commitment to Democratic Values: Foundations Cooperation and Collective Action
12.30-13.30: Lunch Break
13.45-15:00: Panel 3 – Outcomes of the G7 Summit
15:00-15:15: Concluding remarks by Hamid Jorjani, President of CIC National Capital Branch
15:15-17:00: Reception in Lobby
Panel 1
Post-G7 Summit relations and the Future of Transatlantic Alliance
This high-level panel brings together officials to assess the outcomes of the Kananaskis G7 Summit and the future of transatlantic cooperation. Speakers will reflect on progress made in areas like economic resilience, support for Ukraine, artificial intelligence, and global security, while examining trade tensions, evolving U.S.–Europe relations, and the durability of the alliance. With Canada at the helm, the conversation will explore what’s next for the G7’s agenda and global stability.
Moderator
Professor Achim Hurrelmann
Carlton University
Speakers
H. E. Alessandro Cattaneo
Ambassador of Italy to Canada
Kerry Buck
Former Canadian Ambassador to NATO
Karina Häuslmeier
Deputy Chief of Mission From Embassy of Germany to Canada
Panel 2
Pluralism and Commitment to Democratic Values: Foundations, Cooperation & Collective Action
Canada and our allies share a deep commitment to democratic values and engagement in multilateral and global institutions. This discussion will reflect on how Canada and our partners can better collaborate to ensure that democracy and inclusive governance are strengthened in these turbulent times. Our panelists will reflect on the solutions pluralism can offer to addressing and resolving the multiple, intractable global crises we are facing in 2025, and how we continue to centre democracy, human rights and pluralism at a time of increasing focus on national security and stability.
Moderator
Meredith Preston McGhie
Secretary General, Global Centre for Pluralism
Speakers
Judika Tladi
Deputy High Commissioner, South Africa
Odette McCarthy
Executive Director, Equitas
International Centre for Human Rights Education
Maiwand Rahyab
Executive Director, Resilient Societies
Panel 3
Outcomes of the g7 summit
At the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Prime Minister Mark Carney declared Canada ready to lead the world into a new era of global cooperation. This panel explores how Canada is leveraging its values and resources to address pressing international challenges, from securing critical mineral supply chains and advancing AI and quantum innovation, to combating wildfires, foreign interference, and transnational crime. Join us for a forward-looking conversation on how Canada is meeting this moment with strength and purpose.
Moderator
Hamid Jorjani
President, CIC National Capital Branch
Speakers
John Kirton
Director, G7 & G20 & BRICS Research Groups
Munk School of Global Affairs
H.E. Kanji Yamanouchi
Ambassador of Japan to Canada
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