The European Internet Forum (EIF) and the GSMA look forward to your active participation in our 7th annual High-Level virtual discussion in the context of the MWC21 Barcelona, bringing together legislators, regulators, and stakeholders in the EIF and GSMA networks.

• Programme

  Welcome and introduction

  Pilar del Castillo MEP and EIF Chair

  Daniel Pataki, Vice President for Policy and Regulation & Head of Europe, Russia and CIS, GSMA

• Europe 2030: What will it take to reach Europe’s Digital Decade targets?

  Discussion

  Earlier this year, the European Commission presented a vision and avenues for Europe’s digital transformation by 2030. This vision for the EU's digital decade evolves around four cardinal points: skills, secure and sustainable digital infrastructures, digital transformation of businesses, including SMEs, and digitalisation of public services. The combination of the digital decade goals and the NextGenerationEU package are going to help accelerate Europe’s digital transformation. Is this enough to regain its sovereignty and what else is needed from the tech industry?

  Speakers

  Anthony Whelan, Digital Policy Adviser, Cabinet of President von der Leyen, European Commission

  Susana Sol?s P?rez MEP and EIF Member

  Axel Voss MEP and EIF Member

  Cristian-Silviu Busoi MEP and EIF Member

  Ricardo Castanheira, Digital Counsellor, Portuguese Presidency

  Open discussion moderated by

  Magnus Franklin, Managing Director, Teneo

  The Chatham House rule will apply to the discussion

• The role of 5G connectivity in driving Europe’s economic recovery during and post COVID-19

  Discussion

  Connectivity is playing a significant role in the response to the COVID-19 crisis. Investment in widespread connectivity is laying the foundations for future economic growth and will be instrumental in making Europe more competitive. What else is needed to accelerate 5G deployment in Europe?

  Speakers

  Eva Kaili MEP and EIF Steering Committee Member

  Bart Groothuis MEP and EIF Member

  Michel Van Bellinghen, Chairman of the Council of the Belgian Institute for Postal Services and Telecommunications (BIPT) and BEREC Chair 2021

  Ben Wreschner, Chief Economist and Head of Public Affairs, Vodafone Group, and member of Policy Group Europe, GSMA

  Open discussion moderated by

  Magnus Franklin, Managing Director, Teneo

  The Chatham House rule will apply to the discussion