Before a foreign national can attend a Department of Defense meeting, what is required?

For a foreign national to attend a Department of Defense meeting, approval for attendance from the sponsoring activity is essential. This requirement ensures that there is an official endorsement for the individual’s participation, taking into account security implications and the nature of the meeting.

The sponsoring activity is responsible for determining whether the foreign national's attendance poses any risks or whether it aligns with the purpose of the meeting. This process helps maintain the integrity and security of sensitive information while allowing for the exchange of ideas and collaboration when appropriate.

While other aspects such as security clearances, formal invitations, or investigations may be relevant in some contexts, the fundamental requirement for attendance is the explicit approval from the sponsoring organization, which assesses and validates the necessity and appropriateness of the foreign national's involvement.