International intrigue: two defence and security conferences open in Halifax
HALIFAX — Hundreds of defence and security experts from around the world are expected to gather in Halifax this weekend to discuss everything from espionage and terrorism to Russian meddling and North Korea’s threat to world order.
The high-level discussions will be held at two separate conferences in the port city: the NATO Parliamentary Assembly and the Halifax International Security Forum.
One highlight of the security forum will be an on-the-record chat Saturday with U.S. Gen. Joseph Dunford, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff — the highest-ranking military officer in the United States and an adviser to President Donald Trump.
Peter Van Praagh, president of the Halifax International Security Forum, said Canada may have a small population but it punches above its weight when it comes to international affairs.