The Defense Circle is a new and exclusive dialogue platform established by business factors that highlights the growing importance of interconnected security cooperation. Originating from the long-standing ties many of its members maintain with the German Armed Forces, the initiative aims to bring together leading figures from the military, politics, industry, and academia to jointly provide momentum for resilience, national defense, and collective defense.

Following its successful premiere in Berlin in November 2024 under the theme “The Future of European Defense,” the Defense Circle quickly established itself as a significant platform for strategic exchange. Around one hundred selected guests gathered at the China Club Berlin to attend high-level keynote speeches – including one by Nico Lange – and engage in in-depth discussions on the future of security policy, business, and technology. The consistently positive feedback strongly validated the concept, resulting in a significant expansion of the network and the acquisition of new partners.

The most recent edition of the Defense Circle built on this success. In the unique atmosphere of one of Germany’s most prestigious private clubs, selected decision-makers from industry, the military, politics, academia, and the media once again came together to continue the dialogue on current security policy challenges.

A special focus this year was placed on international cooperation: for the first time, the Republic of Kosovo participated as an official Country Partner. The objective of this partnership is to deepen both security policy and economic cooperation while further strengthening bilateral relations. The two countries are connected not only by shared security policy experiences, but also by the common challenge of adapting to an evolving defense environment.

The evening was opened by the Minister of Defense of the Republic of Kosovo, Ejup Maqedonci, who attended together with an official delegation and presented key perspectives on the current security landscape in his keynote address. Further insights were provided by Lieutenant General Günter Katz, Commanding General of the Air Force Troops Command, and defense policy expert Roderich Kiesewetter, both of whom contributed their expertise through keynote speeches and panel discussions.

The Defense Circle once again reinforces its role as a platform for trusted, high-level exchange and makes a valuable contribution to connecting those who are actively shaping the future of European security.

The next Defense Circle will take place on April 29, 2027, at the China Club Berlin: