Europe's Talent-Gap in Tech, Merz and Macron, Diplomatic Platforms at Hannover Messe, Diplomacy in a Beer Garden, EU-China Summit, AI Ambitions, Trade Fairs as Soft Power, Conflict Transformation Workshop, Story of Altiero Spinelli
Dear Readers,
Welcome to the Diplomacy Berlin Newsletter.
As political life in Berlin slows for the summer, global developments show no signs of pausing. Persistent economic challenges and rising trade tensions keep diplomacy firmly in the spotlight.
In this issue, Andrej Gross of Deutsche Messe explores the evolving role of trade fairs—not only as commercial hubs, but as effective instruments of foreign policy supporting open markets and a rules-based international trading order.
We also highlight International Beer Day with a cultural feature, and examine how artificial intelligence is being integrated into diplomatic work, from data analysis to real-time negotiation support.
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We also welcome your press releases, article ideas, and feedback at editorial@diplomacy.berlin.
With best regards,
Sigrid Arteaga
Berlin, Trade & Diplomacy: A Conversation with Andrej Gross
Andrej Gross is Director of Public & Government Affairs at Deutsche Messe, one of the world’s leading trade fair companies. With a background in journalism, politics, and international relations, he focuses on fostering global dialogue around innovation, future mobility, smart cities, and sustainable energy. Passionate about international networking, he connects policy, business, and technology across borders.
What role does Berlin play in shaping national or even EU-level policy from the standpoint of trade fairs or economic platforms like Deutsche Messe?
Germany continues to enjoy a strong reputation worldwide – a reputation that comes with the responsibility to advocate for fair trade and equitable economic relations, both in Brussels and on the global stage. Berlin, as the political heart of Germany, plays a central role in shaping these policies.
Trade fair organizers like us rely on open and fair trade. The increasing use of tariffs as a political weapon harms the global economy and directly affects our ability to offer international platforms. The answer must be a strong, united, and vibrant EU that can stand up for rules-based trade and create opportunities for businesses worldwide.
What advice would you give to young people or students who want to break into Berlin’s public affairs or diplomacy circles?
My advice is simple: get involved! Berlin offers countless opportunities for young people to engage in public affairs and diplomacy. Associations such as the German Council on Foreign Relations (DGAP), the British Chamber of Commerce in Germany (BCCG), Rotary, or the German Society for Political Consulting (degepol) provide excellent entry points and offer dedicated platforms for younger people.
Many organizations value the fresh perspectives that young people bring – this, too, is a form of diversity. The future belongs to the youth, and the earlier you start building your network and contributing your ideas, the better prepared you’ll be to shape it.
What’s one international event or initiative you’ve seen abroad that you wish Berlin would host or adopt?
Germany and Berlin already host a wide range of high-level events and trade fairs. However, I do see room for something we currently lack: a large-scale, community-driven innovation platform like #Slush in Helsinki or the #Web Summit in Lisbon. These events combine startup energy, investor interest, and thought leadership in a unique way.
Of course, Germany’s federal structure means we have many vibrant events spread across cities like Berlin, Hanover, Munich, and even Bielefeld – all of which have strong appeal for startups and SMEs. Still, I would welcome an initiative that brings Europe even closer together, showcasing the EU as a unified player on the global stage in terms of innovation and economic leadership.
Solving Europe's AI Talent Equation: The Skills Gaps Holding Back Innovation
The study “Solving Europe’s AI Talent Equation” (Interface & CEPS, 2025) offers a rigorous analysis of the European Artificial Intelligence (AI) labour market. It underscores the acute and persistent mismatches between demand and supply across skill tiers related to AI. Although the mid-level technical roles (software and data analytics) are well-sourced, the foundational AI literacy remains critically under-provisioned. In some EU member states, up to 52% of entry-level positions require basic competence, whereas only 20% candidate possess the required standard. Similarly, the demand for advanced research and engineering expertise surpasses supply by a factor of two. If left unaddressed, Left unaddressed, these asymmetries threaten to undermine Europe’s strategic ambitions in AI innovation and technological sovereignty. Therefore, a comprehensive, multi-level interventions are essential. For a full breakdown and the comparative data, consult the complete Solving Europe’s AI Talent Equation report.
AI Watch: EU Sets Global Pace with Ambitious AI Act and Investments
The latest update from the „AI Watch: Global Regulatory Tracker European Union“ highlights the EU’s leadership in establishing the world’s first comprehensive AI regulatory framework through the EU AI Act, enforced since August 2024. It introduces phased bans on high-risk and non-compliant AI systems, mandates transparency and technical documentation for general-purpose AI providers, and imposes enhanced obligations for high-risk AI. Backed by a €200 billion InvestAI fund and a dedicated AI Office, the framework supports Europe’s AI infrastructure and talent development. The July 2025 Codes of Practice set standards for transparency, copyright, and risk management, including adversarial testing and incident reporting, to be enforced by national authorities, a new scientific panel, and the AI Office. In essence, the EU AI Act’s risk-based approach is reshaping global AI regulation and market access.
For detailed obligations, the phased implementation timeline, and who’s affected, read the full AI Watch tracker at White & Case.
Merz and Macron: From Flirt to Crisis - Politico Berlin Playbook Podcast
The latest episode of the Berlin Playbook Podcast, „Merz und Macron: Vom Flirt zur Krise“, delivers a timely behind the scenes look at the evolving and sometimes tense relationship between German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron. As Macron visits Berlin, Politico unpacks key flashpoints: disagreements over EU-subsidized nuclear projects, stalled defense initiatives (like the FCAS fighter jet and MGCS tank), and the deadlock on the Mercosur trade agreement. Expert analysis explores why the historic Franco-German “engine” is sputtering just as Europe faces critical choices on trade, security, and future integration. This is essential listening for diplomats and trade professionals seeking real-time insights into Europe’s power dynamics, negotiation hurdles, and the state of EU policy leadership in the summer of 2025. To listen to the full podcast, tune in on Apple Podcast.
Our Forgotten European Stars | Ep. 1: Spinelli
The documentary Our Forgotten European Stars | Ep. 1: Spinelli, created by EU Made Simple in collaboration with the Union of European Federalists (UEF), tells the remarkable story of Altiero Spinelli, a visionary imprisoned by fascists in 1941 who imagined a united Europe. When exiled to a remote prison island, Spinelli and fellows secretly authored the groundbreaking Ventotene Manifesto, a manifesto advocating for a federal Europe to prevent future wars by breaking from nationalism, thus laying the foundation for European federalism and the future EU. The film traces Spinelli’s journey from political prisoner to influential European Parliament member, highlighting his relentless fight for democratic unity amidst war and post-war challenges. It also reveals the radical origins of the EU integration project and the sacrifices of its founding fathers and mothers. For a deeper understanding of Europe’s transnational political roots and federalist ideals, watch the documentary on YouTube.
Central Asia and the Indo-Pacific: bridging the divide in an age of great power rivalry
You must know about the special section in the July 2025 issue of International Affairs titled „Central Asia and the Indo-Pacific: bridging the divide in an age of great power rivalry.“ This collection addresses how prevailing Indo-Pacific strategies mostly focus on maritime domains, often sidelining continental Eurasia and central Asia’s strategic importance. This section explains how China views Central Asia as pivotal for its Eurasian ambitions, particularly under its Belt and Road Initiative, while other Indo-Pacific countries respond differently. Importantly, Central Asian states are seen as active agents employing hedging, diversification, and omni-enmeshment strategies to balance relations with China, Russia, and Indo-Pacific actors. This reframes how policymakers and analysts should view the Indo-Pacific and Central Asia jointly rather than separately, reflecting complex geopolitical realities. You can read more on this important synthesis at the official publication here: Central Asia and the Indo-Pacific special section.Central Asia and the Indo-Pacific special section.
25th EU-China Summit: 50 Years of Diplomatic Relations Amid Ongoing Challenges
The 25th EU-China summit, held on 24 July 2025 in Beijing to mark 50 years of diplomatic relations, brought together EU leaders António Costa, Ursula von der Leyen, and Kaja Kallas with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang. The discussions covered bilateral relations, global challenges like climate change, and geopolitical issues. Although both sides committed to deepening cooperation on climate and multilateralism, the EU stressed the need for concrete progress on trade imbalances, market access, and fair economic relations built on reciprocity. The EU urged China to refrain from supporting Russia’s war in Ukraine and to promote peace based on international law. Human rights concerns and regional security issues, including tensions in the Taiwan Strait, were also reiterated by EU leaders. For full details, see the EU press release on the 25th EU-China summit.
Interface EU provides a rich collection of in-depth analyses, policy briefs, data reports, and perspectives focused on critical topics shaping the European Union’s digital, economic, and foreign policy landscape. It covers a wide array of subjects ranging from governance to cybersecurity and regulatory frameworks, offering evidence-based insights for policymakers, diplomats, trade professionals, and researchers. For full access to this continuously updated repository of EU-related policy research, explore the Interface EU Publications portal and follow Interface EU on X and Linkedin.
Gastronovi Roadshow 2025 – Digitalisierung on Tour
Join the Gastronovi Roadshow on August 4, 2025, at Umspannwerk Ost in Berlin for a dynamic afternoon dedicated to the digital transformation of the gastronomy industry. From 2 p.m. onwards, discover hands-on solutions to industry challenges soaring costs, staff shortages, and increasing guest expectations through expert-led deep dives, best practices, live software and hardware demos, and success stories from leading businesses. For the full agenda, details, and free registration, visit the official Gastronovi Roadshow event page.
Conflict Transformation Workshop
Join the interactive Conflict Transformation Workshop taking place from August 5 to 7, 2025, in Berlin. This hands-on workshop offers diplomats, trade professionals, public affairs experts, and international relations practitioners a unique opportunity to deepen their understanding of conflict dynamics and develop practical skills in mediation, negotiation, and sustainable peacebuilding. Through a blend of expert-led sessions, role-playing exercises, and group reflections, participants will explore conflict analysis frameworks, transformation strategies, and communication techniques for managing complex disputes in political, economic, and social contexts. For workshop agenda, venue, and registration details, visit the Eventbrite page.
Tucked away in the heart of Tiergarten, Café am Neuen See, also known as “CanS” and sister to the iconic Borchardt, is a beloved meeting place for both Berliners and visitors alike. Whether you’re planning an informal coffee, a relaxed business lunch, or a quiet afternoon by the lake, CanS offers a welcoming, year-round setting with picturesque waterside views.
The kitchen focuses on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, featuring organic dishes, homemade baked goods, and regional specialties. The menu includes everything from crisp salads and stone-oven pizzas to highlights like Beelitz asparagus in spring. It is open daily from 9:00 AM to 24:00
Café am Neuen See, Lichtensteinallee 2, 10787 Berlin
Celebrate International Beer Day with Haus der Biere Berlin: A World of Beer at Your Doorstep: Discover the unmatched diversity of global and local brews with Haus der Biere Berlin, your perfect partner for International Beer Day and beyond. With an extensive selection boasting over 450 beer varieties from around the world, including rare craft brews, traditional classics, and alcohol-free options, they deliver authentic beer experiences right to your doorstep. Founded and run by beer enthusiasts in Berlin, they ensure every order is carefully packed and cooled for maximum freshness bringing the spirit of international beer culture to every sip. Visit Haus der Biere Berlin to explore unique mixes, gift packs, and special releases tailored for both casual drinkers and beer connoisseurs alike. Prost to great taste and unbeatable selection!