Transatlantic relations: opportunities and challenges in focus!

Transatlantic relations: opportunities and challenges in focus!

On March 20, 2025, the International Day of the Neuburg Discussion Group and the Best Business Association (BBA) took place at the University of Passau. Under the motto “Why America is important to us?” The focus was on transatlantic relations and their central role in Europe's economy, politics and culture. Numerous prominent representatives from science and business took part in this event. The welcome was given by Rudi Fellner, President of BBA e.V.

The panel discussion was moderated by Dr. Fritz Audebert and brought high-profile speakers such as Prof. Dr. Andreas Buske, CEO of Zwiesel Kristallglas AG, and Dr. Florestan von Boxberg, CEO of Wintersteiger Holding AG. Thomas Gößwein, CEO of Feneceon International, took part live from Greenville, USA. The discussion highlighted the great growth potential that the USA offers for the European economy.

Global challenges and opportunities

The event also included the contribution of Prof. Dr. Buske appreciated. He received an honor for 15 years of jury service from Dr. Dip.-Ing. Dagmar Škodová Parmová, the mayor of České Budějovice, was honored in a laudatory speech. Prof. Dr. Buske spoke about the global framework conditions and transformations, using the example of Zwiesel Kristallglas AG.

The importance of transatlantic relations cannot be overestimated. Germany, the USA and Canada not only share similar values, but also a rich common history. These relationships are characterized by close cultural, social, political and economic ties. Common interests include peace, stability, security, democracy, the rule of law and human rights, which Germany is committed to. According to the Foreign Office, NATO membership has been a pillar of security between Europe and North America for over 70 years. In times of crisis, transatlantic cooperation is particularly crucial.

Diverse social relationships

The discussion in Passau also fell into a larger context. Current challenges, such as the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine, require close coordination of defense and economic policy measures between the transatlantic partners. There are also numerous areas of cooperation, such as global climate protection and sustainable energy transformation. Exchange programs for schoolchildren, students, scientists, artists and athletes have existed since the 1950s and strengthen the diverse social relationships between Germany, the USA and Canada.

In summary, transatlantic relations continue to be of great importance. The event at the University of Passau highlighted not only the challenges but also the opportunities that arise from close cooperation with the USA. Prof. Dr. Jan Schumann, Vice President of the University of Passau, concluded by thanking him for the lively exchange between science and business.