International partnerships create economic value when they facilitate trade, generate investment opportunities and give businesses greater predictability. In the relationship between Europe, the United States and the Middle East, the challenge is to translate shared strategic interests into lasting cooperation with practical outcomes.
That question will take centre stage during “Transatlantic Partnership for Regional Cooperation: Connecting Europe, the US & Middle Eastern Partners,” a panel discussion at the AmCham Annual Conference, taking place on Friday, 6 November 2026, at The Landmark Nicosia.
The session will explore opportunities to strengthen cooperation between Europe, the United States and key Middle Eastern partners in support of regional stability, economic development and strategic connectivity. Particular emphasis will be placed on how dialogue and partnerships can address shared challenges and advance common interests.
Four Perspectives on a Shared Agenda
The panel will feature Panicos Pourgourides, Head of the European Commission Representation in Cyprus; Marilena Raouna, Former Deputy Minister for European Affairs; Dr Raghad Al Khojah, CEO of AmCham-Jordan; and Dr Michalis Kontos, Associate Professor in the Department of Politics and Governance at the University of Nicosia.
The discussion will be moderated by Andrea Antoniou, VP, Head of Central & Southern Europe at Iron Mountain. Additional speakers will be announced soon.
The line-up brings together a European institutional perspective, experience in European affairs, business cooperation with the Middle East and international relations analysis. It provides a framework for examining both the political conditions and economic opportunities underpinning regional cooperation.
Stability as an Investment Factor
For a company considering expansion into a new market, the quality of international relationships forms part of its risk assessment. Access to reliable partners, continuity of cooperation and the ability to manage shared challenges influence decisions on capital, facilities and personnel.
Regional stability is therefore closely connected to growth prospects. Dialogue between governments, institutions and business organisations can help identify common priorities and create conditions for stronger trade and investment relationships.
Within this context, AmCham-Jordan’s participation adds the perspective of a Middle Eastern business community working to strengthen ties with the United States. Connecting that experience with European and Cypriot perspectives will be a distinctive element of the discussion.
What Is at Stake for Cyprus
For Cyprus, cooperation between the three regions presents an opportunity to serve as a trusted meeting point for institutions, businesses and investors. Its location and EU membership provide a starting point. Turning those advantages into economic activity requires concrete initiatives, institutional consistency and partnerships that respond to market needs.
Under the theme “Strategic Corridors & Alliances: Transatlantic Cooperation & Europe’s Global Connectivity,” the AmCham Annual Conference places this discussion at the heart of its agenda.
The objective of regional cooperation is clear: to build the confidence businesses need to pursue opportunities and the connections economies need to grow.
For more information and registrations click here
Conference Information
Οrganiser: AmCham Cyprus
Institutional Supporter: Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry
Signature Sponsor: Bank of Cyprus
Conference Supporters: Iron Mountain, Philip Morris Cyprus, TMF Group
