Digital Global Gateways: how Europe can build a resilient and secure backbone network

On 7th October 2025, over 250 stakeholders, operators, policymakers and investors convened in Brussels for a dialogue on the critical role of submarine cables and terrestrial backbones in securing the future of global connectivity. The event explored pressing challenges and opportunities in network security, sovereignty and resilience of submarine cables — issues that are central to digital infrastructure.

This CNECT University session will serve as a direct follow-up to the pivotal discussions held on 7th October 2025, offering participants an opportunity to revisit key themes such as submarine cable security, smart cables and more. This session will not only recap the most impactful insights from the October event but also open the floor for in-depth Questions and Answers, allowing attendees to clarify the most complex points.  

Join us in driving innovation and resilience in the digital age!

Agenda:
•    Introduction (10min) 
o    Franco Accordino

•    Investments in Submarine Cables (15min + 5min Q&A) 
o    Julien Bollati 

•    Smart cables (15min + 5min Q&A) 
o    Georgios Tselentis 

•    Security and Resilience of Submarine Cable Infrastructures (15min + 5min Q&A) 
o    Miguel Gonzalez-Sancho  

•    CEF application/evaluation procedures (10min + 5min)  
o    Hervé Dupuy 

•    Closing remarks – Future perspectives under the ECF (5min)  
o    Alexandra Rotileanu