The 1995 EU-Türkiye Customs Union transformed bilateral trade, but in an era of digital commerce, climate urgency, and global disruptions, it is no longer sufficient. As the Customs Union approaches its 30th anniversary at the end of this year, the need for a forward-looking renewal has become more pressing than ever. This panel will unpack the strategic imperative to modernise the Customs Union- integrating services, e-commerce, public procurement, and dispute resolution mechanisms. In addition to these sectoral expansions, modernisation efforts must also address new fundamentals shaping 21st-century trade, notably the green and digital transitions. By addressing technical barriers and regulatory misalignments, panellists will explore how a new trade blueprint can create a more resilient and competitive economic corridor between Türkiye and the EU, fostering deeper value chain integration and innovation-led growth.

Türkiye's growing role in digital innovation, bolstered by its participation in the EU's Digital Europe Programme, opens doors to unprecedented collaboration. This session will spotlight joint strategies in artificial intelligence, digital infrastructure, cybersecurity, and smart governance. Experts will assess how Türkiye and the EU can co-invest in digital ecosystems, reduce the digital divide, and shape global tech standards together - positioning themselves as agile leaders in the digital economy while strengthening democratic digital governance.

In an era of evolving security challenges and shifting geopolitical dynamics, EU-Türkiye cooperation in defence and security stands at a pivotal moment. Türkiye’s strategic location, NATO membership, and growing defence capabilities position it as a valuable partner in addressing shared threats and enhancing regional stability.

This session will explore opportunities for deepening collaboration across areas such as defence industry partnerships, counterterrorism, cyber resilience, and military mobility. At the same time, it will consider existing political and institutional challenges that require careful navigation.

By fostering an open and pragmatic dialogue, the panel aims to chart a constructive path forward - one that balances mutual interests and promotes stronger, more coordinated security cooperation in an increasingly complex environment.

The EU Green Deal and Türkiye’s new Emissions Trading System signal a shared commitment to a low-carbon future. At the heart of this transformation lies energy - how it is produced, traded, and integrated across borders. This session will explore opportunities for EU-Türkiye cooperation in renewables, clean hydrogen, grid integration, and the sustainable sourcing of critical raw materials essential for the green transition.

As Europe and Türkiye reshape their energy landscapes, aligning policy, investment, and innovation will be key to unlocking new growth. The discussion will outline a shared vision for resilient supply chains, competitive industries, and secure, sustainable energy systems. By linking resources to technology, and markets to climate ambition, the session will highlight how a deeper EU-Türkiye partnership can power both regions toward a greener, stronger, and more connected future.

Türkiye is already a hub for automotive manufacturing- but the electric and autonomous vehicle revolution demands new models of cooperation. This panel brings together mobility leaders and policymakers to discuss co-investment in battery production, software integration, and sustainable logistics. With the EU setting ambitious emission targets and Türkiye investing in local EV brands and infrastructure, this discussion will spotlight how joint ventures and regulatory alignment can drive the future of clean, connected transportation.