A Strong Political Signal
In his opening speech, Daniel Günther, Minister-President of Schleswig-Holstein, emphasized that the Fehmarnbelt tunnel is no longer a dream — it is under construction and progressing fast. “This is a turning point,” he said, “not just for Denmark and Germany, but for all of Northern Europe.” He framed the project as a cornerstone of European cooperation in a time when transatlantic alliances are shifting and geopolitical uncertainty is rising.

The Fehmarnbelt Days 2025 – The Concerence in Lübeck opened with a strong message of cross-border collaboration and regional ambition. Politicians, business leaders, and regional stakeholders gathered to underline how the Fehmarnbelt region is evolving into a model for European connectivity and economic resilience.

The Strategic Value of Infrastructure
Dr. Robert Gold, Deputy Director at the Kiel Institute for the World Economy (IfW), provided a powerful keynote on the transformative effects of infrastructure. Drawing on economic data and satellite imagery, he showed how new fixed links like the Fehmarnbelt tunnel do more than connect cities: they reshape the geography of growth. “Connectivity creates competitiveness,” he explained. “But only when paired with regional collaboration and mutual investment.”

Insights from the Region – Panel Discussio
The panel discussion that followed brought together prominent voices from across the region:

• Camilla Khokhar, Chair of the Fehmarnbelt Business Council (FBBC)
• Ulf Kämpfer, Chair of STRING and Mayor of Kiel
• Jan Lindenau, Mayor of Lübeck
• Trine Birk Andersen, Region Sjælland
• Mikkel Hemmingsen, CEO of Sund & Bælt Holding A/S

Each shared how their city, region, or institution is preparing for the tunnel’s impact. From cross-border school collaborations to joint infrastructure planning and shared tourism strategies, the message was clear: the region is already acting – not waiting.

FBBC’s Role in Shaping the Future
As Chair of the FBBC, Camilla Khokhar emphasized the importance of long-term dialogue and practical solutions. “We’ve learned from Øresund that the real work begins after the bridge is built. We must ensure seamless commuting, aligned tax systems, and accessible information for SMEs and families alike. That’s what makes cross-border regions thrive.”

A Region with Global Potential
The session concluded with a shared vision of the Fehmarnbelt region not just as a local link — but as a European hub for green innovation, resilient supply chains, and democratic cooperation. In the words of Ulf Kämpfer, “We want this region to prove that freedom, prosperity, and climate action can go hand in hand.”

Fehmarnbelt Days 2025 continues with expert sessions on mobility, energy, tourism, and innovation — showing how much more can be achieved when borders are bridges.

FBBC will continue to highlight and advocate for the tangible opportunities this unique cross-border region offers. For more updates and insights, follow us on LinkedIn or visit our events page.