At the Austrian foreign trade forum, Velina opened with a keynote calling for Europe to present a united front and assert a common geoeconomic position.
Under the motto "Strengthening Europe — Compass for a Networked Economy," participants discussed key issues of resilience, security, and location strategy. The keynote address made it clear: "Europe must present a united front and assert a common position. Waiting is no longer an option," emphasized Velina Tchakarova. The subsequent panel discussion addressed the potential of the security and defense industry, as well as the hurdles in procurement and regulation. Further attention was given to markets such as Southeast Europe, the Western Balkans, and Italy, which offer significant opportunities, particularly in the context of nearshoring. On the topic of "AI Made in Europe," Annette Anna Hoffmann presented impressive examples of startups that have consciously chosen to locate in Europe.
© IHK Reutlingen 2025
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