Since 1995, the United States – Spain Council and the Fundación Consejo España – Estados Unidos meet annually, alternating between the United States and Spain at a Forum to discuss salient topics pertaining to trade, defense, investment, economic growth, the role of Spain in the European Union, technology, immigration, and energy. These meetings invite speakers from the highest levels of government in both countries, experts in fields of particular interest, academia, as well as major financial institutions and industrial companies worldwide.