SCLG – Global Online Forum

Jürgen Raizner Highlights Europe’s Economic Strategies at SCLG Global Forum

Dubai/Online, 26.02.2025: Jürgen Raizner, as renowned expert in economic development and international cooperation, was one of five distinguished speakers at the Supply Chain and Logistics Group (SCLG) event “Trade, Transportation & Logistics 2025 – Global & Regional Perspectives,” held on February 26, 2025. The forum brought together leading international experts from business and academia to address key challenges and opportunities in global trade, transportation, and logistics. Raizner’s presentation, titled “Impact of the Ukraine War on East-West Relations and Economic Strategies”, provided a comprehensive analysis of the economic transformations triggered by the war in Ukraine and outlined strategies for fostering East-West cooperation in a rapidly evolving global environment.

Economic Impact and Strategic Realignment in Europe

Raizner’s presentation focused on the profound economic consequences of the war in Ukraine, emphasizing Europe’s response to these challenges and its efforts to strengthen its position on the global stage. Central to his message was the slogan “America First? Better Europe!”—a call for Europe to assert its leadership through unity, innovation, and resilience.

Key economic transformations highlighted in the presentation include:

• Strengthened EU Unity: The European Union has demonstrated exceptional solidarity in response to the war, with only a few exceptions such as Hungary and Austria. This unity has not only bolstered Europe’s internal stability but has also enhanced its self-confidence on the global stage.
• Boost in Defense Capabilities: Significant investments in defense industries, ranging from immediate procurement needs to the development of advanced technologies, reflect Europe’s commitment to enhancing its security and reducing external dependencies.
• Energy Diversification: Investments in LNG, renewable energy, and hydrogen are reducing Europe’s dependency on Russian energy supplies while accelerating the transition to sustainable energy sources.
• Local Production and Supply Chains: The “local for local” approach prioritizes goods Made in Europe, strengthens regional supply chains, and reduces reliance on global networks, thereby increasing resilience and independence.

The Economic Importance of Europe for Germany

A key insight from Raizner’s presentation was the critical importance of intra-European trade for Germany. German exports to the European Union are more than five times higher than those to the United States. Furthermore, exports to just three European countries—France, Italy, and the United Kingdom—are equivalent to the combined value of exports to the USA, China, and Russia. These figures underscore the vital role of Europe as Germany’s primary trading partner and highlight the necessity of fostering strong economic ties within the region.

Romania: Gateway to Europe

Romania was presented as a strategic gateway to Europe from the East, offering unique opportunities for economic engagement and innovation. Raizner emphasized Romania’s role as the first point of entry into the European Union from East, Gulf Region, Central Asia, etc., positioning it as a key partner for businesses seeking to establish a foothold in the region.

In this context, Raizner also announced that Steinbeis Romania will host the first Logistic and Supply Chain Forum in late May 2025. Organized in collaboration with the SCLG, the event will welcome a delegation of industry leaders to explore opportunities for economic cooperation and innovation. This initiative underscores Romania’s growing importance as a hub for logistics and supply chain development and highlights the role of Steinbeis in facilitating international collaboration.

A Platform for Global Dialogue

The event, hosted by the SCLG, provided a platform for thought leaders to exchange ideas and strategies on pressing global issues. Raizner’s presentation reinforced the importance of Europe’s strategic independence and its potential to lead in a fragmented world. By leveraging its unity, innovation, and resilience, Europe can position itself as a stabilizing force and a hub for economic and geopolitical progress.

Raizner’s contributions to the forum underscored the critical need for Europe to adapt to the challenges posed by the war in Ukraine while seizing opportunities to strengthen its role in the global economy. His insights provided valuable perspectives on how the continent can navigate these turbulent times and emerge as a leader in fostering stability and sustainable growth.