Istanbul, Turkey and Ottawa, Canada – In a significant step towards nurturing young leaders in international security, innovation, and entrepreneurship, the Policy Insights Forum (PIF) and Young Atlantic Treaty Association (YATA) International are pleased to announce a cooperation Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), signed last month.
This innovative partnership designates PIF as an official Canadian partner of YATA International, marking a new era of enhanced Transatlantic collaboration and commitment to youth development in Canada and across NATO Member Countries. Under the MOU, the PIF will actively engage with Canadian and international young leaders through various YATA and NATO-sponsored initiatives as well as coordinated various initiatives to foster greater engagement and education.
A central component of the MOU involves YATA's participation in the PIF's prestigious Transatlantic Fellowship Program, particularly the Dr. Robert Spencer Fellowship Award. YATA's involvement will streamline the identification of outstanding fellowship candidates and amplify fundraising efforts to bolster and enhance the program.
"This MOU is not just an agreement between two organizations - it's a promise to our future leaders. We're investing in the best and brightest minds that will navigate the complexities of international security and innovation and industry," stated Goran Samuel Pesic, PIF Chairman and CEO of the Canadian-based Samuel Group of Companies.
Furthermore, PIF and YATA will work to jointly craft a novel framework for the Emerging Leaders and Young Entrepreneurs Program, for example, promoting extensive involvement in the NATO Defence Industry Forum (NIF), official NATO Summits and other related endeavours. This initiative underscores the dedication to cultivating leaders whose visions align with NATO's innovation and defence industry objectives. The signing of the MOU and this announcement are ahead of this year’s NIF taking place in Stockholm, Sweden from October 24 to 25.
Both organizations recognize the profound impact of this alliance and are committed to the principles outlined in the MOU. While not legally binding, the MOU stands as a testament to the shared Transatlantic goals and values between the PIF and YATA.
“As YATA International we are representing not only our members but also the future of the NATO Alliance. With this great initiative with PIF we are very excited to widen our vision, promote the youth voice in Canada and other countries as well as receive a deeper insight for how to navigate the future,” stated Selin Yilmaz, President of YATA International.
The MOU asserts an ongoing commitment, subject to future amendments mutually agreed upon in writing. This partnership embarks on an unending journey to inspire and empower NATO’s youth, driving impactful change across the Atlantic and beyond.
For further information, please contact Aliénor Peyrefitte, European and NATO Affairs Executive for the Policy Insights Forum.
Backgrounder:
Mr. Goran Samuel Pesic played a foundational role in creating the conceptional framework for the Youth Atlantic Treaty Association (YATA) International in 1996 in Rome, which has since been vital in promoting transatlantic dialogue and cooperation.
Elected as its first Secretary General in 2003 after agreement by NATO’s Public Diplomacy Division (PDD) and ratified at the Atlantic Treaty Association’s (ATA) annual gathering in Edinburgh, Scotland, Pesic's leadership and vision were key during its early stages, setting a strong foundation for its future.
His commitment to collective defence, democracy and the North Atlantic Treaty's values has left a lasting imprint on YATA and its members. Mr. Pesic's contributions, and his legacy continues to inspire and guide YATA International's mission to empower young leaders across NATO in politics, government, industry, and academia.
