Energy, Connectivity, and Climate Action at the Heart of EUSAIR Pillar 2 Discussions

The morning will open with the session "Energy Programmes and Projects to Address the Global Climate Change Challenge in the Adriatic and Ionian Region" (08:30–10:00). With carbon neutrality by 2050 as a shared European goal, the session will explore how EUSAIR countries are shaping national strategies, phasing out carbon-intensive energy sources, and pursuing greater policy harmonization.

Chaired by Ms. Biljana Ramić (Ministry of Mining and Energy, Serbia), the panel will feature leading voices including Mr. Artur Lorkowski (Energy Community), Prof. Sandro Nižetić (University of Split), Mr. Theodoros Tsakiris (Ministry of Environment and Energy, Greece), Mr. Alberto Biancardi (GSE, Italy), and Mr. Davos Bajs (Energy Community Secretariat).

At 10:00, attention will turn to "Connectivity as a Vital Tool for Tourism Development," examining how improving regional transport links can fuel sustainable tourism and economic growth.

Following a coffee break, the event will continue with the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) Programme focus: "Corridors, Connectivity and Cities: From Strategy to Delivery via the WBEM Corridor and CEF Projects" (11:45–13:30).

Mr. Marian-Jean Marinescu, Coordinator of the Western Balkans–East Mediterranean (WBEM) Corridor, will deliver a keynote, setting the scene for two dynamic panel discussions.

Panel 1 will explore sustainable urban mobility in TEN-T urban nodes, with contributions from experts from the Region of Crete, the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport, and HIT/CERTH.
Panel 2 will showcase lessons learned from CEF-funded projects, featuring success stories and insights from Motor Oil Group, WINGS ICT Solutions, Igoumenitsa Port Authority, and Athens International Airport.

The event promises concrete ideas and strategies to drive energy transition, regional connectivity, and sustainable urban development across the EUSAIR region.