MSC25 Side Event: Europe Panel on the European Defence Union


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15 Jan, 2025

EFA365

Learn more about our official Side Event at the Munich Security Conference 2025!

Date and Location

  • Date: 13 February 2025
  • Time: 5.30 until 10 p.m.
  • Location: Munich Security Conference, Königsaal at Hotel Bayrischer Hof, Munich

A Vision for Europe's Security and Defence

On the occasion of the Munich Security Conference (MSC), the European Forum Alpbach (EFA), United Europe (UE), and the Bavarian Family Entrepreneurs Association proudly host an Official Side Event on the evening before the MSC opening. This exclusive gathering will explore Europe’s evolving security and defence priorities with high-profile speakers and distinguished guests.

The evening begins with a keynote address by José Manuel Barroso, followed by three thought-provoking sessions featuring short keynotes, moderated discussions, and open exchanges with attendees. The format ensures a comprehensive exploration of the most pressing challenges and opportunities facing Europe.

Programme

Reception Drinks & Snacks

Time: 5 p.m.

Welcome and Introduction

Time: 5.30 - 6 p.m.

Kick off the evening with a warm welcome by:

  • Othmar Karas, Former Vice-President European Parliament, President European Forum Alpbach
  • José Manuel Barroso, Former President of the European Commission

Part 1: European Defence Union – Strength, Peace, and Freedom

Time: 6 - 7 p.m.

Explore how Europe can enhance its military capabilities to secure autonomy and peace. The keynote will focus on:

  • Raising public defence expenditure to 3-4% of GDP.
  • Utilizing dual-use technologies (AI, satellites, drones) to boost competitiveness.
  • Coordinating EU defence budgets and procurement for efficiency and impact.

Speakers Include:

  • Andrius Kubilius, EU Commissioner for Defence & Space
  • Ronja Kempin, Senior Fellow Stiftung Wissenschaft und Politik
  • Klaus Welle, Chairman Academic Council Wilfried-Martens Center, Board Member EFA
  • Markus Pflitsch, CEO Terraquantum

Moderator:

  • Antonella Mei-Pochtler, Vice-President EFA, Chairwoman of Investment Committee Generali Group, followed by open discussion

Part 2: Europe’s Competitiveness, Growth, and Strength: To Protect Europe’s Autonomy and Sovereignty

Time: 7 - 8 p.m.

To safeguard sovereignty, Europe must strengthen economic resilience. This session will examine:

  • Stimulating growth through investments in dual-use technologies.
  • Completing the single market, including banking and capital market integration.
  • Addressing demographic challenges with skilled immigration strategies.

Speakers Include:

  • José Manuel Barroso, Former President of the European Commission
  • Klaus Hommels, Founder & Chairman, Lakestar / Chairman, NATO Innovation Fund
  • Paul Achleitner, Chairman Global Advisory Board Deutsche Bank
  • Gundbert Scherf, CEO Helsing

Moderator:

  • Gabor Steingard, Founder and Publisher of The Pioneer, followed by open discussion


Break & Dinner

Time: 8 p.m.

Part 3: Financing. More Investments and Higher Military Expenditures Require More Private and Public Financing

Time: 8.15 - 9.15 p.m.

Addressing Europe’s ambitious defence goals requires innovative financing strategies. This session will discuss:

  • Encouraging private investment through regulatory incentives.
  • Leveraging public financing, including EIB and ESM-type mechanisms.
  • Enhancing efficiency through coordinated EU defence spending.

Speakers Include:

  • Hristo Stoykov, Director European Investment Bank
  • Franziska Gerathewohl, Head of Alternative Investments & Asset Manager Selection Munich Re-Group
  • Andreas Treichl, Chairman Erste Foundation

Moderator:

  • Klaus Regling, Former Managing Director of European Stability Mechanism (ESM), followed by open discussion

Closing & Munich Declaration Announcement

Time: 9.15 - 9.30 p.m.

Conclude the evening with insights from:

  • José Manuel Barroso, Former President of the European Commission
  • Klaus Regling, Former Managing Director of ESM
  • Martin Schoeller, Board Member of The Bavarian Family Entrepreneurs Association


Summary:

The event will culminate with the presentation of the "Munich Declaration," summarizing outcomes and key findings.


Networking & Dessert

Time: 9.30 p.m.

Participation

Attendance is limited to registered MSC participants (via the MSC system) and invited guests. For inquiries, please contact Christoph Girbinger at christoph.girbinger@alpbach.org.