G8 & NATO Summits Coming to Chicago in Spring 2012

Leaders from around the world will gather in Chicago this spring for two diplomatic summits hosted by President Barack Obama. The G8 and North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) will hold meetings in Chicago May 19-21, allowing the city to highlight its economic vitality, its arts and architecture, and its can-do spirit.

• This will be the first time an American city other than Washington has hosted a NATO summit.  
• This is also  the first time in more than 30 years that any city has hosted both gatherings.
• More than 2,000 journalists from across the world are expected in Chicago to chronicle the events.

G8
Founded in 1975, the G8 has served in recent years as a forum for the leaders of the world's largest markets to discuss critical issues of the day ranging from the global economy to pressing security challenges.

NATO
The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) was founded in 1949 and includes the United States and 27 other countries. The solemn pledge between NATO members that an "attack on one is an attack on all" has served as a pillar of this premier security alliance since the organization was created after World War II. Today, through new partnerships, NATO is becoming the hub of a highly effective global security network.

While the summits themselves will be closed to the public, the Chicago G8 NATO Host Committee is making plans for a variety of programs to inform our community about these historic events. The summits offer a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for our city -- and especially our students -- to witness world leaders working together to address global challenges.

In the months ahead, the Host Committee will be working with the city's business, civic and philanthropic groups to organize events and welcome the visiting dignitaries. Check back soon.

In the meantime, some of our colleagues in the city have web sites that may be helpful to you for planning purposes:

The Chicago Council on Global Affairs: http://www.thechicagocouncil.org/
The City of Chicago’s Official Tourism site: http://www.explorechicago.org/city/en.html
The Chicago Convention and Tourism Bureau: http://www.choosechicago.com/

Check back with us soon.

-- Chicago G8 & NATO Host Committee
    info@g8natohostcommittee.com