Fighting the economic impact of COVID-19 with a more united EU and a stronger EU-US relationship
For our last ‘Town Hall’ for members, AmCham EU connected with Peter Beyer, Member and Coordinator of Transatlantic Cooperation, German Bundestag.
During the meeting, Peter shared his insights on the COVID-19 emergency and its impact on the EU as well as on the EU-US relationship. He stressed that the COVID-19 outbreak showed the fragility of cross-border cooperation in times of crisis and the need for a stronger and more united EU. According to him, stronger competences at the EU level are needed to allow for an effective response to the crisis, especially with regard to its economic impact. Peter noted that the extent to which the EU will be able to do that depends on the willingness of the Member States which are still very divided with regard to the economic recovery plan.
As for the impact on the EU-US relationship, Peter indicated that the pandemic showed the need for more intensified transatlantic cooperation. Being natural allies, he added, the EU and the US need to start discussing a free trade agreement without further delay.
Related items
:focal())
Automating aid to increase impact in Spain
For families facing food insecurity, efficient support can make a meaningful difference. In Spain, Amazon and Amazon Web Services (AWS) are working with Altius Foundation to improve how essential goods are received and distributed to those in need. Through AWS’ pro bono Giveback programme, the partners developed a digital tool that automates key processes, reducing waiting times and freeing up capacity for counselling and support. Their collaboration also enabled the delivery of more than three million meals in 2024 and helped mobilise humanitarian aid after the October 2024 floods in southeast Spain. These efforts demonstrate how technology, logistics and long-term partnerships can strengthen community support and increase social impact. Read the full story on Invested in Europe.
:focal())
Discussing transatlantic regulatory cooperation with SEC Commissioner Mark Uyeda
On Wednesday, 10 June, AmCham EU hosted Mark Uyeda, Commissioner, US Securities and Exchange Commission, for a discussion on transatlantic regulatory cooperation. The exchange focused on developments shaping global capital markets. Topics included the Savings and Investment Union, ESG and climate-related disclosures, digital finance and stablecoin regulation as well as EU-US capital markets competitiveness. Participants discussed how proportionate regulation can support innovation, lower costs for investors and contribute to economic growth on both sides of the Atlantic. The meeting also highlighted the importance of continued engagement between EU and US regulators as the financial landscape evolves.
:focal())
Celebrating Gala 2026
On Thursday, 4 June AmCham EU held its annual Gala evening at the Africa Palace in Tervuren. The evening brought together guests for a celebration of the transatlantic community, and began with a cocktail reception followed by a seated dinner. Malte Lohan, CEO and Liam Benham (Boeing), Chair, AmCham EU opened the evening with welcome remarks, before Andrew Puzder, US Ambassador to the EU delivered a celebratory toast.
Guests then enjoyed a special performance from Ettore Pagano, First Prize laureate of the Queen Elisabeth Competition Cello 2026, who was accompanied on piano by Naoko Sonoda.
Capping off the evening was this year’s AmCham EU Youth Entrepreneurship Award, organised in collaboration with JA Europe. Eva Maydell, MEP (EPP, BG) introduced the finalists and presented the award to Elenya Spiteri, CEO, Medilert. The Maltese start-up was recognised for its smart medication management system designed to support older adults and caregivers. Learn more here.
A big thank you to our sponsors SAS, Amazon, ExxonMobil and Microsoft for making the event happen. See you next time!
Policy priorities
Insights and advocacy driving Europe’s policy agenda. Our priorities support growth, innovation and a stronger transatlantic economy.
Membership
Connecting business and policymakers to strengthen the voice of American companies in Europe.