High-Level Dialogue on the Transatlantic Relationship Convened in Chicago

The Chicago Council on Global Affairs, The Ditchley Foundation and the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation today convened a high-level dialogue on the transatlantic relationship. 

As the United States marks the 250th anniversary of its founding, the assumptions that have long underpinned the transatlantic partnership are being tested. The three organizations share the view that this moment calls for direct, substantive conversation among senior leaders. 

"For decades, Chicago and the Midwest have played a central role in the transatlantic partnership, through commerce, technology, industry, universities, agriculture, and communities that have shaped this partnership for a century," said Leslie Vinjamuri, president and CEO of the Chicago Council on Global Affairs. "As the United States marks 250 years, the question is not whether this relationship still matters, but whether we have the imagination and the will to renew it from the ground up. That conversation belongs here." 

“Considered, sustained and inclusive dialogue between the US and its allies now will set the trajectory for the world’s most powerful country and its allies for decades to come,” said James Arroyo, director of The Ditchley Foundation. “There is a long road ahead and it is best traveled together rather than alone.” 

The invitation-only dialogue opened with welcome remarks from Vinjamuri, Arroyo, and MacArthur Foundation President John Palfrey, followed by two roundtable sessions: one examining whether the Midwest still has a stake in the transatlantic relationship, and a second on trade, technology, and the future of transatlantic economic cooperation. 

Learn more about the dialogue at globalaffairs.org. 

About the Chicago Council on Global Affairs

A nonpartisan, nonprofit organization, the Council was founded in 1922 and is dedicated to increasing knowledge and engagement in global affairs. Our in-depth analysis and expert-led research influence policy conversations and inform the insights we share with our growing community. Through accessible content and open dialogue of diverse, fact-based perspectives, we empower more people to help shape our global future.  

About The Ditchley Foundation

The Ditchley Foundation brings people together to think new things and make new connections. Our aim is to help sustain peace, freedom, and the rule of law, and we work towards the renewal of democratic societies, states, and alliances. Using proprietary technology and conscious, well-researched human judgment, we build the right connections and, through a range of events and engagements at Ditchley Park and beyond, we create space for strategic thinking and orchestrate frank conversations across divides of opinion, expertise, geography and generations. Our primary route to impact is through people, engaging the individuals and organizations globally and locally with direct influence over outcomes. Together, we work towards addressing complex problems that require sustained, persistent, and incremental activity.