HONOLULU (July 31, 2024) – The Daniel K. Inouye Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies (DKI APCSS) recently hosted the latest installment of the DKI Speaker Series, co-sponsored by the Daniel K. Inouye Institute and the DKI APCSS Foundation. The event featured a keynote address by the Honorable Boris Pistorius, Germany’s Federal Minister of Defense.

Lori Forman, acting deputy director of the Center, warmly welcomed distinguished guests from the Federal Republic of Germany and Honolulu. Forman expressed her pleasure in hosting the Speaker Series and encouraged attendees to learn more about the Center’s mission through the handouts provided and the DKI APCSS website.

“We are deeply privileged and honored today to have as our guest the Honorable Boris Pistorius,” Forman said. “His presentation, ‘From Europe to the Pacific: Enhancing Security through Partnership,’ offers valuable insights into his priorities and vision for global security.”

Minister Pistorius opened his speech by expressing his gratitude for the invitation and highlighting the significance of the DKI APCSS. He emphasized the Center’s role in fostering regional stability and mutual understanding through open discussion and collaboration.

Reflecting on his visit to the USS Arizona Memorial, Pistorius expressed admiration for Senator Inouye’s legacy of reconciliation and cooperation. He underscored the importance of partnerships in addressing global security challenges and the interconnectedness of security issues in the Indo-Pacific and Europe.

“In the face of Putin’s brutal war of aggression against Ukraine, NATO is stronger and more united than ever,” Pistorius said. “Together, we stand against aggressors and threats to our commitment to peace and stability.”

Pistorius highlighted Germany’s commitment to NATO, increased defense spending, and efforts to enhance military capabilities. He also addressed the growing challenges posed by China and the importance of maintaining a rules-based international order in the Indo-Pacific.

Pistorius concluded by emphasizing the need for continued cooperation and partnership to address global challenges. He called for a commitment to unity, reconciliation, and collaboration to create a future where peace and security are a reality.

The event underscored the DKI APCSS’s commitment to promoting global peace and stability through dialogue and cooperation, aligning with Senator Inouye’s vision for the Center.

For more information about the Center and its mission, visit the DKI APCSS website.