The 18th European Economic Congress, set to take place from April 22-24, 2026, in Katowice, Poland, will prominently feature bilateral cooperation forums as a primary tool for discussing the future of the European economy. Key gatherings will include the Polish-French Economic Forum, Economic Cooperation Forum between Poland and Switzerland, as well as other partnerships spanning countries like Germany, Morocco, Romania, Taiwan, and the USA. Each forum is expected to have its own unique focus and dynamics, but they will collectively address strategic sectors critical for economic growth and collaboration.

Amid current geopolitical tensions and increasing competition for capital, bilateralism is emerging as a practical approach to economic diplomacy. The intended exchange of views at these meetings goes beyond mere discussions; they aim to identify shared investment opportunities, facilitate the transfer of skills, and foster long-term relationships between businesses across borders. This diplomatic strategy reflects a shift towards more nuanced and cooperative economic engagements among nations.

The emphasis on crucial sectors such as energy, climate transformation, industry and supply chains, infrastructure, digital technologies, and economic security speaks to the comprehensive nature of the discussions planned at the Congress. These forums are not just about enhancing trade relations but also about building collaborative frameworks that can endure through times of uncertainty, thereby strengthening the economic resilience of participating countries.