As we navigate through an era marked by rapid technological advancements, countries across the Atlantic basin have a unique opportunity to leverage technology not just for economic gains but for broader, sustainable development goals. Historically, technological innovation has been a key driver of productivity growth, raising living standards and generating employment opportunities. However, this progress has also led to significant disruptions, particularly in the labor market. As nations in the Atlantic region embrace digital transformation, they face the challenge of harnessing these innovations to promote inclusive growth while managing the risks of increased inequality and workforce displacement.

Drawing on insights from global experiences, it is essential to explore how technology can be a force for good, driving sustainable development across sectors. This requires a balanced approach that emphasizes productivity while addressing potential social impacts.

- What lessons can be drawn from regions that have successfully harnessed technology for development, especially those that navigated similar challenges during previous industrial revolutions?

- What strategic policies should these nations prioritize to effectively harness technology for a more inclusive, sustainable future?

- How can we ensure that the adoption of digital technologies benefits all segments of society, avoiding the exacerbation of existing inequalities?

- How should education systems evolve to equip the youth with skills relevant to the future digital economy, ensuring their employability and resilience in an evolving job market?

The growing economic ties between Africa and Latin America represent a significant shift in global trade dynamics and South-South cooperation. Both regions, rich in natural resources and human capital, are increasingly recognizing the potential for mutual growth through enhanced trade relations, knowledge exchange, and collaborative development initiatives. This evolving partnership spans various sectors, including agriculture, technology, energy, and infrastructure development. As these two regions strengthen their connections, they are creating new opportunities for economic diversification, market expansion, and reduced dependency on traditional North-South trade patterns. The session explores the current state of Africa-Latin America relations, identifies key areas for cooperation, and examines strategies to overcome challenges in fostering stronger inter-continental ties.

- What are the most promising sectors for increased trade and collaboration between African and Latin American countries?

- How can both regions leverage their shared experiences and complementary strengths to address common development challenges?

- What role can regional economic blocs and multilateral institutions play in facilitating stronger Africa-Latin America partnerships?

- What are the main obstacles to enhancing South-South cooperation between Africa and Latin America, and how can they be effectively addressed?

The Mediterranean region is on the frontlines of climate change, facing rising sea levels, extreme heat, and water scarcity, which threaten both its ecosystems and socio-economic stability. The region’s climate vulnerabilities demand urgent, coordinated action that balances climate adaptation with economic development. While the European Union plays a central role in fostering cooperation through initiatives like the European Green Deal and Global Gateway, there are broader opportunities for collaboration that extend beyond the EU. Regional partnerships, private sector involvement, and multilateral institutions must also be leveraged to effectively address climate challenges. However, significant barriers remain, including fragmented governance, divergent national priorities, and a lack of adequate financing.

This breakout dinner will focus on the opportunities and challenges of climate cooperation in the Mediterranean, emphasizing the need for inclusive, multi-stakeholder engagement. Participants will discuss how to align the region’s diverse interests and strengthen collaboration across sectors and borders to build climate resilience.

- How can regional and international actors, beyond the EU, enhance cooperation on climate action in the Mediterranean?

- What are the main challenges in aligning climate goals with the economic and social priorities of Mediterranean countries?

- What funding mechanisms and investment opportunities can be mobilized to support climate adaptation and mitigation in the region?

- How can private sector engagement and public-private partnerships play a greater role in addressing climate challenges in the Mediterranean?

This panel highlights the transformative role of young migrants in shaping global development. Young migrants are increasingly seen as dynamic drivers of change, bringing innovation, new skills, and adaptability to both their home and destination countries, and contributing to bridge global labor and skills gaps. However, they often face significant challenges such as navigating limited access to safe migration pathways, skills underutilization, economic instability, and social integration. For their countries of origin, youth migration can enhance integration into the global economy and brain circulation, but it can also lead to some form of brain drain. This panel will explore policies and initiatives to enhance youth mobility in the Wider Atlantic and by that ensure their participation in the global economy. It will also focus on youth empowerment through education, employment, entrepreneurship and mobility as tools for personal and hence global development.

- How can policies be designed so that youth migration in the Wider Atlantic contributes to support both the development of home countries and the successful integration of youth into host communities?

- What are the most pressing challenges young migrants face today, and how can they be addressed?

- What role can international cooperation play in fostering safer migration pathways for young people and preventing youth mobility from leading to brain drain?

- How to overcome the North/South gap in opportunities for mobility of young people?

​​​​​​Africa’s historical connections to the Commonwealth and Francophonie continue to shape its cultural, political, and economic landscape. This breakout dinner will explore the evolving legacy of these international affiliations, examining their impact on Africa’s development, identity, and international relations.  With perspectives from distinguished experts in governance and economic development, the panel will consider how African nations can navigate these inherited alliances to foster regional integration, sustainable development, and stronger global partnerships. This discussion will also assess the influence of these networks on Africa’s sovereignty and explore the potential for Africa to engage within these structures in a way that aligns with its strategic priorities in a fragmented world. 

- What role do the Commonwealth and Francophonie play in supporting Africa’s economic and social development today?

- How do these affiliations impact Africa’s political autonomy and regional integration efforts?

- In what ways can African nations leverage or reform these historical alliances to strengthen their global standing?

- What are the opportunities and limitations of the Commonwealth and Francophonie as vehicles for Africa’s development in a fragmented world?

​​​​​​Industrial policy, the strategic government intervention to promote specific industries or sectors, has long been a controversial approach to addressing economic challenges. This session explores the potential of industrial policy as a solution to various economic issues facing nations today. Historical examples and contemporary case studies provide insight into the effectiveness of industrial policy in tackling problems such as unemployment, economic inequality, and global competitiveness. The discussion delves into both the merits and drawbacks of industrial policy, considering its impact on innovation, market dynamics, and long-term economic growth. By examining successful implementations in some countries, as well as potential risks and unintended consequences, the session aims to evaluate whether industrial policy can truly be considered the ultimate cure for economic challenges in the modern global economy.

- How have successful implementations of industrial policy in some countries contributed to their economic development, and what lessons can be drawn from these experiences?

- What are the potential risks and unintended consequences of government-led industrial policy, and how can these be mitigated to ensure positive economic outcomes?

- In an era of rapid technological change and global economic shifts, how can industrial policy be designed to effectively address contemporary challenges such as automation, climate change, and economic inequality?

​​​​​​The Draghi report on EU competitiveness, presented to the European Council, offers an ambitious vision to revitalize the European economy in the face of current challenges. It advocates for massive investments in green and digital technologies, strengthening the Capital Markets Union, and greater coordination of economic policies. However, this vision faces significant obstacles. Resistance from some member states, notably Germany, to mechanisms such as joint debt issuance or a unified European tax system limits the feasibility of these proposals. Political challenges, such as the lack of agreement on fiscal reforms or coordinated investment initiatives, as well as the cumbersome nature of European bureaucracy, make the implementation of these proposals uncertain.

- To what extent do the report’s proposals address the competitiveness challenges of Europe?

- How can budgetary and political constraints be overcome?

- What institutional compromises are necessary to enable this transformation?

Infrastructure corridors linking Africa and Europe hold immense potential for economic growth, regional integration, and enhanced trade relations between the two continents. These ambitious projects encompass transportation networks, energy grids, and digital infrastructure, aiming to bridge the physical and digital divide across the Mediterranean. The development of such corridors presents both opportunities and challenges, involving complex geopolitical considerations, significant investment requirements, and the need for sustainable, inclusive growth strategies. As these initiatives progress, they have the power to reshape trade dynamics, influence migration patterns, and foster deeper cultural and diplomatic ties between African and European nations.

- What are the primary economic and social benefits of developing infrastructure corridors between Africa and Europe, and how can potential risks be mitigated?

- How can public-private partnerships be leveraged effectively to finance and implement large-scale cross-continental infrastructure projects?

- In what ways might enhanced connectivity between Africa and Europe impact regional security, migration flows, and cultural exchange?

- What strategies can be employed to ensure that infrastructure corridor projects promote environmental sustainability and equitable development for local communities?

​​​​​​In today’s fast-changing world, young people are playing a pivotal role in shaping political transformation. From influencing local issues to engaging in global movements, youth are actively contributing new ideas and driving change across various sectors. Their energy and innovation are helping to address political, social, and economic challenges in new and dynamic ways. Whether through grassroots activism, formal political engagement, or leadership roles in organizations, their involvement is bringing fresh perspectives to ongoing issues and opening up opportunities for more inclusive and forward-thinking societies.

This panel will explore how youth are shaping political transformation, examining their growing influence in decision-making processes and the barriers they often face in accessing key platforms of power. The discussion will highlight how young leaders are making an impact at both local and international levels and how they can collaborate across borders to tackle shared global challenges. Additionally, the panel will delve into the strategies and resources needed to empower the next generation, ensuring they continue to play a central role in shaping the future political landscape.

- What is the role of youth in driving political change in today’s world?

- How can young people better access platforms for decision-making and influence?

- What strategies can youth use to collaborate on global issues and amplify their impact?

- What challenges do young leaders face, and how can they overcome these obstacles to sustain their influence?

​​​​​​Landlocked economies in the Sahel face structural challenges that limit their ability to participate fully in the global economy. These constraints often lead to economic marginalization, a root cause of the political instability that characterizes the region. Addressing this issue requires a continental and regional approach focused on unlocking access to the Atlantic Ocean. The Moroccan Royal Initiative aligns with this ambitious vision, offering an African-driven solution to address African challenges. Through its focus on regional cooperation, connectivity, and sustainable development, the initiative seeks to create pathways for prosperity across the continent, fostering greater integration and resilience in response to Africa's unique social, economic, and political needs.  Such a strategy would not only facilitate economic integration but also promote regional security and political stability. Developing Atlantic access would reduce logistical constraints for Sahelian countries and foster integration with coastal economies, creating a mutually beneficial, win-win approach for landlocked and coastal states alike.

This session will delve into a well-coordinated strategy for linking the Sahel to the Atlantic, emphasizing how an integrated approach can transform the region into a stable and prosperous part of the global economy.

​​​​​​As the global push for energy transition intensifies, the demand for critical minerals—key for technologies like batteries, solar panels, and electric vehicles—continues to surge. These minerals are often concentrated in a few countries, which creates geopolitical tensions and supply vulnerabilities. Nations that rely on these resources face the challenge of securing reliable access amidst growing competition, while mineral-rich countries must navigate external pressures to supply these essential materials, balancing their own developmental goals.

The rise of strategies like friendshoring and nearshoring, where countries prioritize trade with allies or source materials closer to home, adds further complexity. This shifts global trade dynamics, intensifies competition, and risks exacerbating regional tensions.

This session will explore the geopolitical dimensions of critical mineral supply chains from the perspective of both resource-seeking countries and those that possess these vital materials. It will examine how nations are navigating the dual challenges of ensuring access to critical minerals while balancing economic, diplomatic, and environmental considerations in a highly competitive global landscape.

- How are mineral-rich countries managing the growing demand for critical minerals while addressing their own economic and developmental needs?

- What strategies are resource-seeking countries employing to secure access to critical minerals in a competitive and geopolitically charged environment?

- How do friendshoring and nearshoring affect both resource-rich countries and those dependent on critical mineral imports?

- How can both supply and demand countries foster balanced, mutually beneficial relationships to support global energy transition goals?

The outcome of the recent U.S. elections will play a significant role in shaping the country’s foreign policy priorities, including its approach to Africa. As the new administration settles in, Africa stands at a crossroads regarding its engagement with the United States. This session will examine the emerging dynamics of U.S.-Africa relations, focusing on key areas such as trade, security, and diplomatic cooperation. The discussion will address whether the new political landscape in Washington signals continuity or departure from previous strategies towards the continent. Furthermore, panelists will explore the implications of the U.S. stance on global issues, such as climate change and economic recovery, on Africa's development trajectory. This session aims to outline strategic pathways for deeper, more sustainable engagement between the United States and Africa by identifying opportunities and challenges.

- How might recent U.S. election outcomes reshape America's approach to its partnerships in Africa?

- How can Africa leverage U.S. interests to advance its development priorities?

- What are the potential areas of continuity and change in U.S. trade, security, and governance policies in Africa?

- How can African nations strategically position themselves to navigate the evolving geopolitical context post-U.S. elections?

In the wake of global crises like the COVID-19 pandemic, the war in Ukraine, and accelerating climate change, the agricultural sector faces unprecedented pressures. For countries in the Atlantic region, this has reignited the debate between safeguarding agricultural sovereignty and engaging in the globalized food system. Rising food prices, disrupted supply chains, and increased competition for arable land have highlighted vulnerabilities in relying heavily on global markets. At the same time, globalization offers access to advanced agricultural technologies, capital, and broader markets, essential for economic growth and food production efficiency.

- In light of recent global crises, how should Atlantic countries adjust their agricultural strategies to enhance food sovereignty without isolating from global trade?

- What role do international trade agreements and regional cooperation play in balancing national agricultural interests with global market integration?

- How can climate change adaptation be integrated into agricultural policies to ensure both sustainability and food security in the Atlantic region?

- What are the risks and opportunities for Atlantic nations in pursuing food sovereignty while engaging with global supply chains and technologies?

​​​​​​In the aftermath of conflict, fragile states face challenges that impede their path to stability and resilience. One of the primary challenges faced by fragile states post-conflict is the restoration of economic stability, in the context of damaged infrastructure, disrupted markets, and weakened institutions. Such conditions attract less private investments and destabilize the domestic private sector. Key players in this landscape—including the World Bank, the IMF, private sector actors, global and regional powers, and local elites—play critical roles in the development and peacebuilding processes. These processes require the strengthening of human capital, infrastructure, state institutions, and economic activity. Economic recovery in fragile states is further complicated by the risks of transnational issues such as the disruption of global supply chains, climate change, and transnational crime. This panel will explore the challenges of rebuilding economies in fragile states following conflict, while identifying effective frameworks for fostering resilience and stability.

- To what extent does foreign humanitarian aid strengthen peacebuilding and development processes in fragile states?

- What are the most effective and context-specific frameworks for overcoming economic setbacks in post-conflict environments?

- How do policy and legal reforms, along with inclusive growth programs, contribute to economic recovery?

- How can economic growth help in conflict-prevention efforts within the Atlantic region?

​​​​​​The Middle East has long been a region of significant geopolitical tensions and conflict. Power struggles, external influences, and deep-rooted divisions have contributed to ongoing instability. Despite numerous attempts at fostering peace, the region remains in a state of flux, with unresolved political, social, and economic challenges. With shifting alliances and foreign interventions complicating matters, the future of the Middle East raises critical questions. As international and regional actors seek ways to engage, the question remains whether the region can move toward lasting peace or if it will continue to face cycles of unrest and instability.

This panel will explore the root causes of ongoing instability in the Middle East, with a focus on both internal dynamics and external influences. The discussion will assess whether current conditions offer opportunities for reducing conflict and promoting peace. Additionally, the panel will examine the role of economic development, regional cooperation, and diplomacy in shaping a more stable future for the region. Special attention will be given to whether recent efforts at collaboration can create meaningful change or if more comprehensive approaches are required.

- What are the primary factors driving instability in the Middle East today?

- How can regional and international actors collaborate to promote peace and prevent further conflict?

- Are there any promising signs of cooperation that could lead to long-term stability?

- How might economic and political reforms contribute to a more peaceful future in the Middle East?