Climate neutrality is reshaping Europe’s economy, energy systems, and global role. Net-zero will need to be a central driver of industrial strategy, competitiveness, and geopolitical positioning, as Europe moves beyond fossil-fuel dependence. Deep electrification — from clean power and grids to batteries and heat pumps — is key to this transformation, but requires clear political signals and investment certainty. Central and Eastern Europe’s strong industrial base provides a unique opportunity to compete in global clean technologies if climate and industrial policy are strategically aligned. At the same time, Europe must redefine its trade and external economic relations in a rapidly changing global landscape. This panel explores how net-zero can be anchored in a sovereign, competitive, and resilient European economy.

Questions

• Is the Clean Industrial Deal sufficient to secure clean growth? What additional instruments — targeted subsidies, carbon border mechanisms, investment programmes — are needed?
• How will Europe position itself in the global economy? What is the right course of action with China, with Mercosur, etc.? Can it effectively maintain and advance its lead markets?
• How can individual member states and the EUKI community support the wide integration and uptake of cleantech in Central and Eastern Europe?