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Switzerland-Estonia Cyber-Century: a meeting point for the digital future in Zurich

Switzerland and Estonia are celebrating 100 years of successful trade relations this autumn with the "Switzerland-Estonia Cyber-Century," a top-tier event focusing on the digital future. On November 13, 2025, a high-caliber audience will gather at the Conference Center of Zurich's Hallenstadion to discuss IT security, digital innovation, and international cooperation.

This anniversary event, organized by the Estonian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Digitalswitzerland, the Office for Labour of the Canton of Zurich, ICT Estonia, and the Estonian Chamber of Commerce in Switzerland, promises a diverse program. Participants can look forward to a stimulating panel discussion, exciting speed presentations by Estonian companies, and targeted matchmaking sessions.

A Day Full of Innovation and Exchange

The event kicks off at 11:00 AM with a reception and sandwich lunch. At 12:30 PM, there will be a welcome address and introduction of delegates from Estonia, digitalswitzerland, the Office for Labour of the Canton of Zurich, ICT Estonia, and swissICT.

The highlight will certainly be the panel discussion at 12:50 PM with Mihkel Tikk, Deputy Commander of the Cyber Command of the Estonian Defence Forces, Ralf Schneider, Head of Cybersecurity and NextGenIT Think Tank at Allianz, moderated by Lukas Mäder, Editor for Technology & Geopolitics at NZZ. The discussion, titled "Strategic Cyber Resilience: Industry and National Defense in Sync," will address the urgent need to strengthen Europe's cyber defense capabilities and examine the crucial interface between the private sector and national security.

Following this will be speed presentations by Estonian companies (1:30 PM), showcasing innovative solutions and perspectives from the Baltic state. This will be followed by matchmaking sessions (2:00 PM), offering the opportunity to forge specific contacts and initiate potential collaborations. The afternoon will conclude with networking and an aperitif (3:30 PM).

Digital Economy Award 2025 as a Festive Conclusion

The festive conclusion will be the gala evening of the Digital Economy Award 2025 at the Hallenstadion (5:30 PM). This is an excellent opportunity to deepen networking activities and initiate new partnerships. Please note that a separate ticket is required for participation in the award evening.

Spaces for participation in the event are limited, so early registration is recommended.

Contributors and Organizers

Prominent figures from both countries are involved in the "Switzerland-Estonia Cyber-Century":

  • Mihkel Tikk: Deputy Commander of the Cyber Command of the Estonian Defence Forces, an experienced expert in cyber and ICT operations, and co-founder of the Estonian Cyber Defence League.
  • Ralf Schneider: Head of the Cybersecurity and NextGenIT Think Tank at Allianz, who advises the Group Executive Board on future IT and security strategies and is involved in various national cyber organizations.
  • Lukas Mäder: Editor for Technology & Geopolitics at NZZ, specializing in cybersecurity, technology in warfare, and influence operations.

The organizers are key players from both countries:

  • Estonian Chamber of Commerce in Switzerland: Builds bridges between Estonian and Swiss companies and promotes trade, investment, and innovation.
  • digitalswitzerland: As a umbrella organization, it promotes digitalization in Switzerland through collaboration between business, science, civil society, and authorities.
  • ICT Estonia: The leading voice of the Estonian digital sector, promoting innovation and positioning Estonia as a global pioneer in digital transformation.
  • Office for Labour of the Canton of Zurich: Plays a central role in shaping the regional labor market by supporting workforce development and integration.

Register today to be part of this important event and actively shape the digital future!

SOURCE: SwissICT

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