Lübeck, 16 June 2025
The second day of Fehmarnbelt Days 2025 placed the spotlight on how cross-border collaboration can drive Europe’s green transformation. Political leaders, infrastructure experts, and regional actors gathered to underline the Fehmarnbelt region’s unique potential to become a model for sustainable growth and cooperation.
A Political Opening with a Clear Message
Sebastian Schmidt, Member of the German Bundestag for Ostholstein, opened the morning with a clear statement: The Fehmarnbelt corridor should not only serve as a transport link but also as a symbol of European integration through climate leadership. Political frameworks must be aligned, and regional collaboration strengthened to unlock the full potential of the corridor.
Cross-Border Green Policy – A European Outlook
The following high-level panel brought together key voices from Northern Europe:
- Werner Schwarz, Minister for Agriculture, Rural Areas, Europe and Consumer Protection, Schleswig-Holstein
- Roble Wais, Political Representative, City of Oslo
- Ulrika Heie, Chair of the Transport Committee, Swedish Parliament
- Sofia Hedén, Chair of the Environment Committee, City of Malmö
- Johannes Thon, Senior Vice President, European Energy
All participants agreed: the green transition requires coordinated action. Infrastructure such as the Fehmarnbelt link must be supported by joint investment, political alignment, and strategic planning. Johannes Thon stressed the critical role of private investment in scaling up renewable energy.
Infrastructure as a Backbone for Transformation – Executive Lunch Briefing
At noon, a distinguished panel looked at the broader European context of the Fehmarnbelt project.
Pat Cox, European Coordinator for the TEN-T ScanMed Corridor, highlighted how projects like the Fehmarnbelt Tunnel and the Brenner Base Tunnel are vital to Europe’s central north–south axis. Joined by Mikkel Hemmingsen (Sund & Bælt), Dr. Tobias Heinemann (Deutsche Bahn), Henrik Vincentsen (Femern A/S), and Sandro Francesconi (BBT SE), the speakers discussed how transport infrastructure can serve both climate goals and economic competitiveness.
Planning the Region Together – From Education to Implementation
In the afternoon, the Femern Belt Plan & Network was presented – a joint Danish-German initiative led by the Rural Agency to connect planners and students from both countries. By strengthening spatial planning collaboration and future talent development, the region is actively shaping its long-term future.
A Strong Signal from Northern Europe
Fehmarnbelt Days 2025 continues to prove that shared goals can lead to real progress – from infrastructure to energy, education, and innovation.