Setting the stage for discussions on competitiveness, security and digital transformation in Central and Eastern Europe and across the European Union.

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Central and Eastern Europe is increasingly becoming an important contributor to Europe’s digital transformation, competitiveness and technological resilience. As technological competition intensifies and

digital technologies become critical to economic growth and security, the region has an opportunity to further strengthen its position as a dynamic hub of innovation and digital development. The discussion will explore how CEE countries can expand access to a broad range of technologies, deepen regional cooperation and strengthen partnerships with trusted international partners. Participants will examine how openness, collaboration and enabling regulatory frameworks can help the region accelerate innovation, boost competitiveness and contribute to Europe’s broader digital resilience.

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The European Union is entering a new phase of regulatory reflection aimed at simplifying and improving the coherence of the digital rulebook. This panel will explore perspectives from governments, industry, legal experts, and EU institutions on how regulatory simplification could support innovation while maintaining high standards. The discussion will focus in particular on the evolving EU digital acquis and its implications for businesses and policymakers in the CEE region.

This discussion will provide a platform for policymakers, industry representatives, and legal experts to exchange views on the evolving EU digital regulatory framework through the lens of boosting the region’s and entire EU’s competitiveness. The session will focus on key legislative initiatives and policy debates, including regulatory simplification efforts and new instruments shaping the European digital economy. Participants will discuss how upcoming regulatory developments may affect innovation, competitiveness, and the digital ecosystem in Central and Eastern Europe.

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Artificial intelligence has the potential to become a major driver of productivity, competitiveness and economic growth in Central and Eastern Europe. While the region has strong digital talent, growing technology ecosystems and a dynamic SME sector, the adoption and scaling of AI solutions remain uneven. Unlocking AI’s full potential will require not only greater investment and skills development, but also a policy and regulatory environment that encourages experimentation, innovation and broad diffusion of AI technologies across the economy.

This session will explore how Central and Eastern European countries can accelerate AI adoption, particularly among small and medium-sized enterprises, and build an enabling ecosystem for AI innovation. Speakers will discuss the role of data access, research and innovation frameworks, and balanced regulation in supporting the development and deployment of AI solutions and strengthening the region’s long-term competitiveness.

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Protecting children and young people online has become a shared priority across Europe. Yet despite growing political attention and a rapidly evolving regulatory landscape, approaches to online child protection remain fragmented across EU Member States. Differences in national rules, particularly regarding age verification and the responsibilities of digital services, create legal uncertainty and uneven levels of protection.

This discussion will explore how Europe can move towards a more coherent and harmonised approach to online child protection. Speakers will examine the need for greater regulatory consistency across Member States, the role of EU-level policymaking in establishing common standards, and how a more unified legal framework can strengthen children's safety online while preserving the openness and integrity of the Digital Single Market.

Showing appreciation for true challengers making an effort for CEE’s progress on its path of digital transformation, the CEE Digital Trident will be awarded for the fourth time. It is time to announce the laureate of CEE Digital Trident 2026.

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The discussion will focus on strengthening regional cooperation through a coherent, regionally structured approach to national and European policy-making, engaging in cross-border joint technological projects and aligning national strategies to better leverage the region’s collective strengths. Participants will also explore how CEE countries can coordinate their positions to jointly position the region as a leading European digital hub.

Participants:
Ministers responsible for digital affairs from CEE countries, senior government representatives, digital industry leaders, representatives of regional industry organisations