German Chancellor Friedrich Merz will join BGD 2026, which will take place from October 20 to 22 at ESMT Berlin under the theme "Advancing Alliances for the New Era."
As geopolitical tensions rise and major powers increasingly weaponize economic interdependence, markets, supply chains, and technologies are becoming arenas of strategic competition. Businesses face mounting pressure to enhance resilience, secure critical capabilities, and adapt to a rapidly shifting global landscape. Governments, meanwhile, must forge new alliances and redefine the relationship between economic strength and national security. This year's summit will explore how businesses and governments can recalibrate their relationship to enable effective decision-making in the new era.
“In a time of geopolitical tensions and economic fragmentation, closer cooperation between governments and businesses is more critical than ever. The Berlin Global Dialogue has become a key platform for international decision-makers. I look forward to discussing how we can strengthen partnerships and shape a resilient global economy together,” says German Chancellor Merz.
“This year’s theme marks a return to our founding mission: advancing the dialogue between business and government in an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape. We are delighted that German Chancellor Merz is attending this year,” says Lars-Hendrik Röller, Founder and Chair of Berlin Global Dialogue.
Learn more about BGD 2026 here.
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