Athens, Greece – The Greek capital, Athens, is preparing to welcome the President of the European Parliament, Roberta Mitsola, on Thursday, July 9, 2026, for an official visit to participate in the 30th session of the Economist’s Governmental Roundtable. The visit comes at a sensitive time, as the world grapples with ongoing geopolitical and economic turmoil.
An international platform for decision-makers
The event will take place in Athens from July 8 to 10 under the theme “Progress in an Age of Turmoil: Geopolitics, Growth, and Technology.” This roundtable is one of the most prominent annual gatherings of heads of state and government. In addition, it will be attended by senior European and international officials, representatives of international organizations, and leaders from the business and academic communities. The event aims to address the most pressing issues facing the world today.
High-level strategic dialogue
Mitsola will participate in the event as the official guest and keynote speaker. A highlight of her agenda will be a strategic dialogue with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis during the event’s official dinner. This dialogue, moderated by Daniel Franklin, editorial director of The Economist, is expected to focus on the prospects for European cooperation and the continent’s future in light of current challenges. For those wishing to follow this important debate, the European Parliament has announced that the dialogue will be broadcast live via its Multimedia Centre, allowing the public to follow discussions on major political and economic issues.
An intensive agenda for the “age of turmoil”
This year’s 30th anniversary event focuses on crucial strategic themes, foremost among them the rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape and strengthening European competitiveness in global markets. In addition, the themes include building sustainable economic resilience. Discussions will also address energy security and the technological challenges posed by artificial intelligence and digital transformation. This comes at a time of increasing international instability, requiring close cooperation and coordination between European and international partners.
Mitsoula’s visit to Athens reflects the European institutions’ keenness to be actively involved in the intellectual and political discussions that precede decision-making. This is especially significant given Greece’s pivotal role in shaping the economic and security vision for Southern Europe and the Middle East. This lends particular importance to the outcomes of this dialogue, which combines political leadership with the insightful analysis of The Economist magazine.
