Agenda

  • In a world marked by evolving geopolitical landscapes and a constantly shifting American diplomatic approach, join us for a dynamic, high-level exploration of how the political, economic, and security ramifications of today’s geopolitical developments could reshape the international order for years to come. Bipartisan speakers will illuminate the potential ramifications of the 2024 presidential elections on U.S. foreign policy and global affairs, offering their nuanced perspectives and extensive understanding of foreign policy matters. 

    Invite Only.

    T.H. Ami Bera, U.S. Representative (CA-6)

    Joe Daly, Global Managing Partner of Public Sector Group, Gallup

    T.H. Stuart Holliday, CEO, Meridian International Center

    John Sitilides, Principal, Trilogy Advisors LLC

7:30 - 8:45 AM

  • Catalyst Conversations are 20-minute small-group discussions held during networking breaks, focused on specific topics that explore the day’s theme of Shaping Geopolitical Futures. Space is limited—arrive early to secure your spot!

    In an era of rapid technological advancement, the interplay between artificial intelligence and geopolitics is redefining global relations. As competition mounts, nations are striving to establish robust Sovereign AI ecosystems that secure their autonomy and enhance economic resilience. This 20-minute Catalyst Conversation will explore the essential components that define these ecosystems, focusing on the strategic investments and policy frameworks necessary for success. Attendees will have the chance to contribute their perspectives, engage in meaningful discussions, and gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

    Location: The Great Hall (2nd Floor)

    Pablo Chavez, Founder and Principal, Tech Policy Solutions Inc.
    Steven Overly,     Host, POLITICO Tech

8:25 - 8:45 AM

  • Take some time to connect with other leaders across sectors while fueling up for the morning. It’s a chance to build and strengthen the network that will make this Summit so impactful. Take time to connect with someone new, or head to a Catalyst Conversation for an intimate deep dive.

8:00 - 9:00 AM

  • Catalyst Conversations are 20-minute small-group discussions held during networking breaks, focused on specific topics that explore the day’s theme of Shaping Geopolitical Futures. Space is limited—arrive early to secure your spot!

    In an increasingly interconnected world, the influence of cities and local governments is reshaping the landscape of international relations. Subnational diplomacy has emerged as a powerful force, enabling urban centers to address global challenges such as climate change, migration, and public health while advancing their own economic and cultural agendas. This 20-minute Catalyst Conversation will delve into the complexities of leveraging the unique positions of subnational entities and their quest for influence on the global stage.

    Location: The Library (3rd Floor) 

    Michael Lore, Deputy Secretary of State, Maryland

    Andrew Desiderio, Senior Congressional Reporter, Punchbowl News

8:25 - 8:45 AM

  • Meridian International Center CEO Stuart Holliday sets the stage for the 2024 Meridian Summit.

9:00 - 9:05 AM

  • In today’s geopolitical landscape, heightened tensions between major powers and the rising influence of non-state actors create a complex and volatile environment. This session will delve into the dynamics of great power competition across economic, technological, and military realms, examining how states are adapting to the evolving threats posed by non-state actors, including terrorist groups and cyber criminals. We will explore the need for resilient infrastructures, enhanced cyber defenses, and the importance of international cooperation through proactive diplomacy, strategic alliances, and public-private partnerships. Whether the current volatility will lead to increased instability or an embrace of norms, there is potential for positive outcomes. This session will identify major players, key flashpoints, and emerging threats, offering insights into how countries and the international community can navigate this intricate landscape to shape a more stable future. 

    Jon Finer, Principal Deputy National Security Advisor, The White House
    Jim Sciutto,     Chief National Security Analyst and Anchor, CNN Newsroom

9:05 - 9:25 AM

9:25 - 9:45 AM

  • In an ever-changing global landscape, diplomats, policymakers, and executives are working to understand and anticipate the shifts that will define the future. This scene setting session will explore the evolving dynamics of geopolitics, highlighting the trends, risks, and opportunities that are shaping our world. As global power structures shift and new actors emerge, the strategies and actions of key players will significantly influence international relations. While the pendulum of geopolitics continues to swing, this session will offer a comprehensive analysis on the economic and security maneuvers of major powers, opportunities to enhance U.S. competitiveness, and a commentary on strengthening our democratic institutions, including a preview of the most significant anticipated challenges for the next U.S. administration.

    T.H. Fred Hochberg, Board Chair, Meridian International Center
    T.H. Jane Harman,     Chair, U.S. Commission on the National Defense Strategy

9:45 - 10:15 AM

  • Securing an increasingly insecure world is more critical than ever in an era marked by escalating regional conflicts, shifting power dynamics, and emerging threats. Traditional security paradigms are being tested as geopolitical rivalries intensify, threats from near-peer rivalries surge, and nonstate actors exploit new vulnerabilities. Governments and international organizations are investing in advanced cybersecurity measures, cross-border intelligence sharing, and climate resilience initiatives to enhance global security. How should governments think about the shifting security landscape, and where should their attention be directed? What role can and should nonstate actors, including the private sector, play in providing security across various domains?  

    Jeremy Bash, Founder and Managing Director, Beacon Global Strategies
    Elbridge Colby,     Co-founder and Principal, The Marathon Initiative
    T.H. Kay Bailey Hutchison,     22nd United States Permanent Representative to NATO
    Brittany Masalosalo,     Chief Public Policy Officer, HP Inc.

10:15 - 10:25 AM

  • Tuan Tran, President of Imaging, Printing, and Solutions Business at HP Inc., will receive the 2024 Meridian Corporate Leader Award

    The Meridian Corporate Leader Award recognizes exceptional business leaders whose vision and management abilities have helped their companies succeed in a global marketplace, increased international collaboration, and made societal impact a corporate priority. 

    T.H. Stuart Holliday, CEO, Meridian International Center
    Tuan Tran    , President Imaging, Printing and Solutions, HP Inc.

10:25 - 10:30 AM

  • T.H. Ami Bera, U.S. Representative (CA-6)

  • Catalyst Conversations are 20-minute small-group discussions held during networking breaks, focused on specific topics that explore the day’s theme of Shaping Geopolitical Futures. Space is limited—arrive early to secure your spot!

    One of the defining aspects of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has been the deliberate targeting of civilian infrastructure. Described by President Zelenskyy as energy terrorism, Russia’s attacks on Ukrainian power station and energy grid have acutely impacted the country’s power generation and distribution capabilities. This 20-minute Catalyst Conversation will delve into how Ukraine is responding to these unprecedented attacks and efforts it has taken to build resiliency into their energy systems. Spaces are limited and available on a first-come basis—arrive early to secure your place!

    Location: The Great Hall (2nd Floor) 

    Natalya Yemchenko, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer, SCM

    The Honorable James Glassman, Chairman, Glassman Enterprises

10:30 - 11:10 AM

10:40 - 11:00 AM

10:40 - 11:00 AM

  • A key request from Summit attendees? More networking opportunities. So many new partnerships and ideas have emerged from Meridian connections. Chat with a potential collaborator and imagine the ways you might work together, or head to a catalyst conversation for an intimate deep dive.

  • Catalyst Conversations are 20-minute small-group discussions held during networking breaks, focused on specific topics that explore the day’s theme of Shaping Geopolitical Futures. Space is limited—arrive early to secure your spot!

    The intersection of semiconductor supply chains and geopolitics is reshaping the landscape of several key global industries like electric vehicles, consumer electronics, and telecommunications. As geopolitical tensions rise and supply chain vulnerabilities become more apparent, the stability and security of semiconductor supplies are crucial for the future of these sectors. This 20-minute Catalyst Conversation will examine the importance of maintaining a strategic autonomy in the development of semiconductors, focusing on the impact of shortages, the geopolitical factors at play, and the strategies being adopted to mitigate risks and reduce dependencies on unreliable suppliers.

    Location: The Library (3rd Floor) 
    Hooman Shahidi, Co-founder and CEO, EVPassport

    Mahnaz Khan, Vice President of Policy for Critical Supply Chains, Silverado Policy Accelerator

11:10 - 11:30 AM

  • From how wars are fought to how societies respond to and recover from natural disasters, innovation is driving change in domains large and small. Emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and fusion technologies are propelling advancements at lightning speed, and in doing so, influencing power dynamics, economic competitiveness, and humanitarian efforts. While the impacts of these advancements are just beginning to be felt, how governments, NGOs, IGOs, and even rouge entities harness these new technologies, will have deep-seated ramifications for years to come. How should industry and governments respond to today’s technological advancements—while preparing for the innovations of tomorrow—to ensure that competitive advantage is not lost in the evolving global landscape?

    Tanya Accone, Senior Advisor on Innovation, UNICEF
    Dominic Delmolino,     Vice President of Field Technology and Engineering, Amazon Web Services
    Sumi Somaskanda,     Chief Presenter, BBC News

  • As political tensions, trade disruptions, and regulatory changes become more unpredictable, corporations find themselves on the front lines of crises, from conflicts to health emergencies. Executives are turning to robust tactics to remain agile and competitive, to predict challenges, and to be prepared to face them when they arise. These resiliency strategies have become critical components for future-proofing business operations. This session will explore the effectiveness of such a roadmap in uncertain times, as well as the merits of fostering a buoyant business culture able to adapt with the ever-changing global landscape. 

    Goli Sheikholeslami, CEO, POLITICO Media Group
    Julie Sweet,     Chair and CEO, Accenture

    View Accenture’s “How to Grow Your Return on Resilience” Report

12:05- 12:30 PM

12:30 - 12:35 PM

  • Collaboration is essential for addressing complex challenges like climate change, technological innovation, infrastructure development, and sustainable, long-term economic growth. As the cornerstone to improved living standards, job opportunities, and greater access to resources and services, economic growth is increasingly expected to address inequality and ensure a more sustainable and inclusive future that benefits all of society. Are geopolitical and geoeconomic transformations facilitating collaborative practices or disrupting the status quo? Discussions will explore the power of strategic alliance across private equity, foundations, sovereign wealth funds, and other financial institutions as a tool for building resilient, inclusive economies in the 21st century. How should businesses, governments, and financial institutions work together to drive these economic developments for good? 

    Fireside Chat - 11:30-11:40

    Eric Gertler, Executive Chairman and CEO, U.S. News & World Report

    The Honorable Jose W. Fernandez, Under Secretary for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment, U.S. Department of State

    Panel Discussion 11:40-12:05
    Eric Gertler,     Executive Chairman and CEO, U.S. News & World Report

    Hooman Shahidi, Chief Executive Officer, EVPassport  

    H.E. Lui Tuck Yew, Ambassador, Embassy of Singapore 

    H.E. Svanhildur Hólm Valsdóttir, Ambassador, Embassy of Iceland 

11:30 - 12:05 PM

  • Charles L. Capito Jr., Former Managing Director, Wells Fargo Advisors