The Institute for National and International Security (INIS) had the honor of hosting Prof. Dr. Scott G. Nelson from Virginia Tech, a distinguished professor of Political Science and Director of Graduate Studies at this renowned American university institution. During the visit, substantial and strategic discussions were held on developing international academic cooperation, with a particular focus on the potential establishment of a “Study Abroad” program for Virginia Tech students in collaboration with INIS and its partner institutions in the region.

Special attention was paid to contemporary security challenges, including Russian hybrid activities targeting the states of the Western Balkans, developments in the Middle East, geopolitical relations in the Far East, and current issues related to the internal political landscape of the United States. The exchange of views demonstrated a strong mutual interest in developing interdisciplinary approaches in Security Science and contemporary international relations.

The discussions also opened the possibility of future study visits and academic activities not only in Serbia but also in North Macedonia, Italy, and Poland, through cooperation among universities, research centers, and experts in security, geopolitics, and strategic studies.

Prof. Dr. Scott Nelson’s visit further confirms INIS’s growing international standing as a platform connecting the academic community, professionals, and institutions interested in advancing international cooperation and promoting the development of Security Science on a global level.