Last week, we had the pleasure of welcoming Cecilia Malmström, who formerly served as EU Commissioner for Home Affairs (2010–2014) and EU Commissioner for Trade (2014–2019), for a powerful lecture on 'The EU’s Role in Global Trade.
Drawing from her own experience in Brussels, she helped us understand what it takes for the EU to remain open to the world while adapting to a changing global order.
We explored the EU’s complex relationship with China, the importance of maintaining strong ties with the US, and how multilateralism is being tested. Cecilia also reminded us that despite these challenges, the EU still leads the way globally concerning trade agreements.
With agreements like those with Japan, South Korea, and Canada, along with more partnerships on the horizon, the EU continues to build a network of collaborations that reflects its economic goals and shared values.
A big thank you to Europa Direkt Lund for hosting us, and to Cecilia for finding the time to join us and speak openly. It’s not every day you get to learn directly from someone who has been right at the center of these decisions.