AmChams in Europe (ACE), the largest network of international chambers of commerce in Europe, organized its annual Best Practice Sharing Conference on September 27-29. Hosted by a different ACE member each year, representatives from 35 countries met this time in the historic city of Athens, Greece. As part of the conference delegation, Zoltán Szabó, President of Amcham Hungary, and our CEO, Írisz Lippai-Nagy joined the conference to participate in the valuable knowledge sharing. Furthermore, this year’s conference marked the 60th anniversary of AmChams in Europe, and this milestone was honored with a special ceremony to celebrate the history and achievements of the ACE community.
On the initial day, the AmCham representatives started with a Welcome and Brainstorming Session discussing their perspectives for the future of AmChams and revealing their united commitment to progress. They could also share their views during Breakout Sessions that addressed Organizational Sustainability, Member Engagement, Economic Challenges, Accountable Business, and several other topics. This was followed by an interesting and informative introduction on the resilience of the Greek tourism industry by Dimitris Fragakis, Secretary General of the Hellenic National Tourism Organization. The day ended with a reception at the U.S. Ambassador’s Residence, reinforcing AmChams’ contribution to promoting cooperation between the United States and Europe.
On the second day, the delegation examined the EU Pharma Package and explored the challenges and opportunities in the European pharmaceutical sector. Industry experts provided valuable insights, and participating AmCham members were then offered an exclusive tour of The Ellinikon Experience Centre, where they presented an ambitious sustainability-focused urban development project at Athens’ former airport. The ACE 60th anniversary gala dinner marked a significant occasion with a fireside chat featuring Dr. Albert Bourla, CEO of Pfizer, creating a perfect blend of networking opportunities and reflection on six decades of AmCham collaborations.
The third day started with the ACE Presidents & CEOs Breakfast Briefing with Industry & Investment Leaders. Afterwards, the Creative Network presentations showed innovative ideas from various AmChams worldwide, featuring projects that advance economies, improve corporate governance, foster digital education, and strengthen resilience. At the Creative Network Awards Ceremony, AmCham Ukraine received recognition for their outstanding contributions and constant commitment to innovation. The conference ended with a dinner hosted at Athens City Hall by Mayor Kostas Bakoyannis, concluding three enriching networking, education, and collaboration days.
The ACE Best Practice Sharing Conference was a great success, building inspiration, insight, and motivation to strengthen transatlantic relations and promote innovation within the business environment. We want to thank all our fellow AmChams for for their commitmment , as well as for their support and cooperation through the years. We also thank Susan Danger, Chair, AmChams in Europe, Ajša Vodnik, Vice-Chair, AmChams in Europe, and the AmCham Greece Team for their support and their involvement in organizing the conference.