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On Monday, 21 September, AmCham EU hosted Sigitas Mitkus, Lithuanian Vice-Minister of Foreign Affairs, for a fireside chat. Moderated by Malte Lohan, CEO, AmCham EU, the participants looked ahead to Lithuania’s Presidency of the Council of the EU and the role business can play in supporting its priorities. The exchange focused on Lithuania’s upcoming Presidency priorities, including strengthening transatlantic relations, enhancing European competitiveness and security, and advancing simplification. Discussions also covered Single Market fragmentation, access to finance, digital policy, support for Ukraine and defence cooperation, with an emphasis on private sector investment and effective implementation of EU initiatives.

In her 2026 State of the Union address, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen described ‘a complex age of great possibilities and great perils’. From geopolitical tensions and energy prices to supply chain disruption, businesses operating in Europe face this reality every day. It is an environment that underscores the need for a strong Europe. A stronger, more united Europe is a more attractive place for American companies to invest. 

On Wednesday, 9 September, AmCham EU joined 19 other associations to mark Brussels’ return from the summer break at the Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences. The event drew over 800 guests and included a keynote speech by Jessika Roswall, European Commissioner for Environment, Water Resilience and a Competitive Circular Economy. The evening provided a platform for stakeholders from industry, politics, civil society and media to connect. This year’s conversations focused on Europe’s place in a changing world and the policies needed to boost growth and the EU’s competitiveness.