On 24 February 2026, Vienna Economic Forum (VEF) had the pleasure of welcoming participants of the Young Leaders Project seminar “Fortifying Democracy Under Aspects of Security and International Relations” to its premises in Vienna.

The visit formed part of a comprehensive seminar programme organised by VEF’s Strategic Partner, the Robert Schuman Institute, in cooperation with Konrad Adenauer Stiftung Vienna and the Eduardo Frei Foundation, held from 23 to 28 February 2026 in Vienna. The programme brought together young professionals from Southeast Europe (SEE) and beyond, representing VEF Member Countries — Albania, Kosovo, Moldova, North Macedonia, Montenegro and Ukraine — as well as Armenia, Belarus, Georgia, Lebanon, and Serbia.

The Secretary General of VEF, Amb. Dr. Elena Kirtcheva, warmly welcomed the participants and highlighted Vienna Economic Forum’s mission as an international non-governmental organization (int. NGO), committed to fostering closer regional economic cooperation in the Region “From the Adriatic to the Black Sea.” She underscored a key message: cooperation is one of the most important factors for success. Emphasising the importance of dialogue across borders and generations, she encouraged the young leaders to clearly articulate and actively pursue their visions for the economic and political future of the region as a part of united Europe. Amb. Dr. Kirtcheva reaffirmed VEF’s readiness to work closely with the new generation of decision-makers, for which the VEF League of Universities provides an excellent framework. The Secretary General also extended a special invitation to the participants to attend the upcoming VEF Annual Garden Party — as a further opportunity to deepen dialogue and strengthen regional networks.

Mag. Niko Petković, Senior Project Manager and Deputy Secretary General of VEF, presented the organization’s mission, achievements, and ongoing initiatives. He elaborated on VEF’s role as a platform for investment promotion, public-private cooperation, and support for innovation and start-ups across Southeast Europe.

The subsequent discussion focused primarily on the role of young leaders in strengthening regional cooperation within the VEF region, in Southeast Europe, and beyond. The participants exchanged their perspectives on how initiative, a sense of responsibility, and cross-border cooperation can contribute to a resilient and forward-looking development of the region. The exchange reflected a strong commitment to active engagement, mutual understanding and sustained regional dialogue.

Vienna Economic Forum extends its sincere thanks to Mag. Johannes Spreitz, Policy Advisor, Konrad Adenauer Stiftung Vienna, Gábor Berczeli, MA, Director, Robert Schuman-Institute (RSI) and Mag. Alessandro D‘Onofrio, External Project Manager, Robert Schuman-Institute (RSI) for their excellent cooperation and outstanding contribution to the organization of the visit.