EU Dialogue |
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initiatives , EU trade policies ’ impact on business events , talent development strategies and the imperative of digital innovation . By spotlighting the sector ’ s multifaceted contributions , participants underscored its integral role in driving innovation , collaboration and economic growth across Europe . Throughout the day , it was underlined that meetings and events are universal drivers of positive change for society . They have the power to advance and achieve the EU ’ s objectives in the coming years : building a resilient economy , embracing digital transformation , building a green , fair and social Europe , and promoting European interests and values on the global stage .
Productive platform The EU Dialogue event proved to be a productive platform , not only showcasing the immense value proposition of the business events industry but also fostering discussions on the sector ’ s challenges . This included discussions on trade policy , advocating for streamlined visa processes and a firm embedding of the meetings events industry in the European Tourism Pathway .
“ With today ’ s rapidly evolving geopolitical challenges , it is imperative for Europe to remain competitive . Europe holds a leading position for international trade shows and congresses . This represents a significant advantage for our European exhibitors and visitors as well as creating a significant economic impact for the hosting region and country . We are proud to contribute with our platforms to building a resilient economy , fostering research , technical innovation , entrepreneurship , to master the green and digital transformations . EEIA has been the voice of our
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sector in Brussels for many years and we look forward to continuing this important exchange with policymakers ”, explained Roland Bleinroth , EMECA president for EEIA .
“ In the discussions about statistics and data , it became clear , once more , that the business events and exhibition sector is fragmented and complex , which is reflected in a multitude of data and studies produced by the sector itself and a striking lack of representation in any official statistics . In order to be visible to and recognised by governments and policymakers on all levels , it needs a clear presence with some basic data in official national , European and global statistics ”, said David Boon , UFI European Chapter chair for EEIA .
Petra Stušek , president of City Destinations Alliance , concluded : “ There is no doubt that tourism and the meetings sector go hand in hand as vital contributors to sustainable development goals . They are essential for the visitor economy , which can benefit the destinations ’ social inclusion , cultural offering and relations , knowledge societies and local communities . It ’ s important to embrace the existing
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Above : Advocating for the events industry in Brussels
“ Topics included discussions on trade policy , advocating for streamlined visa processes and a firm embedding of the meetings events industry in the European Tourism Pathway .”
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tools at the European level like the Tourism Transition Pathway which is aligned with meetings industry challenges . We share many goals with the European Union , and we need to speak with one voice while still embracing all components and illustrating the diversity and relevance of our sector .
“ Continuing this dialogue is key to ensuring Europe ’ s competitiveness , resilience and sustainability .”
The closing session highlighted the various impactful moments and insightful ideas shared throughout the conference and offered an opportunity to discuss the next steps moving forward to the publication of a common statement from the meetings industry to the EU . EW
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