Lübeck, 16 June 2025 – At the recent meeting of the Fehmarnbelt Business Council (FBBC), held at the premises of the Lübeck Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IHK Lübeck), an important moment of leadership transition took place: After 18 months of dedicated service, Camilla Khokhar (Confederation of Danish Industry – DI) handed over the FBBC presidency to Philip Koch, Director International at the Hamburg Chamber of Commerce (IHK Hamburg).

In a warm and collegial atmosphere, members reflected on a highly productive term under Danish leadership, during which FBBC regained momentum and visibility as a leading cross-border platform for regional business development and cooperation.

Looking Back: Strategic Achievements
The Council meeting highlighted several key milestones from the past 18 months:

• The FBBC Summit 2024 gathered over 300 participants from Denmark, Germany, and Sweden – demonstrating strong regional engagement.
  
• Three strategic reports were launched:
  · One by Prof. Ninnemann on German infrastructure and the implications of delays:
  · One by consultancy COWI on labour market dynamics, which has already informed political discussions in Denmark and Sweden.
  · Six recommendations on how to unluck the potential of the Fehmarn Belt Region:
  How can we support unlocking the potential of the Fehmarn Belt Region?
  
• Political lunches were held in Berlin and Stockholm, generating constructive dialogue with policymakers – including the full Swedish Transport Committee.
  
• FBBC actively contributed to the Fehmarnbelt Days 2025 in Lübeck.
  
• The organization has maintained a sound financial standing, with a stable outlook through 2027.

Moving Forward: Strategic Priorities Under New Leadership
With Philip Koch assuming the presidency, the FBBC outlined two strategic priorities for the next phase:

• Strengthen political dialogue at the ministerial level across coastal regions in Germany, Denmark, and Sweden.
  
• Raise international visibility of the Fehmarnbelt region by developing a cross-border “pitch deck” to attract investors and decision-makers.

The existing organizational structure – including Project Lead Kai Gerullis, two active working groups (Infrastructure and Labour Market), and regular task force meetings – will continue, with openness to new members and formats as needed.

Gratitude and New Beginnings
The meeting concluded with heartfelt thanks to Camilla Khokhar for her exceptional leadership, and a symbolic handover of the presidency.