Navigating the EU-US tech landscape in the electoral year

The pace of digital change accelerates, positioning 2024 as a year of exceptional importance. A worldwide tableau of democratic processes is being set, with more than 50 elections involving over 25% of the global population. The resonance of the European Parliament elections continues to resonate, while the anticipation for the US Presidential elections is palpable even from afar. This conjunction of political events, a phenomenon not witnessed since 2004, paves the way for an in-depth analysis of the technological sector's direction.

The EU and the US, as leaders in tech, tackle digital challenges together within the Trade and Technology Council. Looking toward 2040, AI's influence grows, potentially changing international standards. The EU leads with the first detailed AI Regulation for governance, while the US encourages innovation, aiming to achieve wider goals.

This panel discussion will bring together key stakeholders from both sides of the Atlantic to explore and debate the evolving tech relationship between the EU and the US, particularly in the wake of an eventful electoral year. The event aims to provide insights into how these political developments are shaping digital policies and cross-continental collaborations. 

Join us for an engaging and informative session as we delve into the implications of this pivotal year for EU-US tech relationships. We will examine the trends of data transfer, semiconductors, cybersecurity, new technology trends of wireless and fixed infrastructures and the emerging innovations in 6G networks. Together, we will explore the collaborative opportunities and envision the future of connectivity in a globally connected world.

The event will be moderated by Matthew Newman, Global Chief Correspondent at MLEX Market Intelligence in Brussels, and will take place in the Connect Europe office in Brussels (Boulevard du Regent, 43-44, 7th floor).
 

Agenda:

• 17:30 -17:40 | Welcome and introduction
  • Alessandro Gropelli, Director General-designate, Connect Europe 
     
• 17:40 -18:25 | Panel discussion
  • Mike Ferguson, Executive Vice President for Federal Legislative Relations, AT&T
  • Wolfgang Kopf, Senior Vice President for Group Public and Regulatory Affairs at Deutsche Telekom
  • Thibaut Kleiner, Director for Policy, Strategy and Outreach, DG CNECT, European Commission
  • Adina Vălean, Member of the European Parliament
  • Brando Benifei, Member of the European Parliament
     
• 18:25 - 18:40 | Q&A session with the audience
• 18:40 - 19:15 | Appetizers and cocktail