Brussels is where some of the brightest and most determined minds of the continent gather together with a common goal: to shape a better future for Europe – a smarter, fairer and more integrated future.
Huawei shares this goal and we believe 5G is the key to the smarter future we are all striving for.
Now, the question is: How can we harness the potential of 5G to tackle global problems like climate change, while also supporting industries, cities and rural communities across the continent? 5G is going to have a huge impact on the way we work, do business, socialise and communicate with each other. And Huawei is ready to partner with governments and policymakers to ensure that this new technology is deployed wisely and for the benefit of society as a whole.
Huawei first started operating in Europe 20 years ago, and during these two decades we have created jobs, reduced the urban-rural divide, and boosted Europe’s research and innovation ecosystem.
“Thanks to 5G technology, it’s estimated that Europe could have the highest GDP growth in the world by 2034”
We now employ over 13,000 people, have 23 research facilities and partner with leading universities across the continent. A report recently published by Oxford Economics shows that Huawei contributed €12.8 bn to Europe’s GDP in 2018 – adding €5.6 bn to tax revenues.
But Europe is more than just one of our most important markets – it is truly our second home. Huawei’s commitment to a stronger Europe is not only a matter of the past and the present: it’s also its future.
This year alone, we announced bold investments in Germany, Romania, France, Spain, and the UK; plus a €70m research and development investment in Ireland.
Over the next 20 years, industrial digitalisation will become the biggest driving force for economic growth. New technologies such as 5G, Big Data, Artificial Intelligence and “the Internet of Things” will bring new opportunities.
But more than this, thanks to 5G technology, it’s estimated that Europe could have the highest GDP growth in the world by 2034.
“5G is the key to the smarter future we are all striving for”
In many respects, Europe has led the way so far. The introduction of its General Data Protection Regulation is a perfect example of global governance. European values on fairness and citizens’ rights are the gold standard when it comes to cybersecurity and data protection.
Europe is the natural 5G leader: it has the most advanced operators and a world–leading industrial base. This, married with the best 5G innovators and Huawei as a full partner, means that Europe can shape the world’s 5G landscape.
To achieve this goal, Europe must be a leader on the road to a digital future. We are at a crossroads of geopolitical contests.
Those who embrace the potential of 5G will be in charge not only of their digital future, but also of the world’s. 5G can help us tackle many of the challenges ahead – and with Europe in the driving seat, 5G will certainly be a force for good.
This Thought Leader is sponsored by Huawei