Fredrik Persson has just been appointed as the new President of BusinessEurope. He emphasises that our common European values of freedom and democracy are now more relevant than ever.
What will be your main focus in your new role in BusinessEurope?
– A resilient and sustainable Europe begins with a competitive business sector, a strong economy, jobs and prosperity. Competitive businesses are also the best guarantee for peace and prosperity in our world.
Persson points out that the level of dialogue and cooperation between businesses and decision-makers in Europe needs to be strengthened and improved.
– As President of BusinessEurope, my mission will be to channel the power of the innovation, knowledge and experience of Europe’s businesses in order to strengthen their voice in the EU. The business community needs to better explain, and demonstrate more clearly, what it needs and the conditions required to realise its full potential in the digital and green transition. Politicians also need to become better at listening.
What are you looking forward to most in your new role?
– Taking over as President of BusinessEurope at a time when Europe faces major challenges – we’re in the shadow of the invasion in Ukraine as well still facing the effects of the pandemic - is a challenge that I am humbled to take on.
– I am, and have always been, a staunch supporter and friend of the EU. I want to see a strengthened competitive Europe that builds on the EU’s strengths, not least the single market and a positive free trade agenda. Accelerating the green and digital transformation, and continuing to promote business research and development will also be important objectives.
What will you take away from your time as President of Confederation of Swedish Enterprise?
– I am very proud and grateful to have had the opportunity to lead the Confederation of Swedish Enterprise. One of my predecessors said that; ”everything we do in our association should be an investment for the future”. This is a philosophy that I’ve lived by myself during my years as chairman, and it’s one that feels more important now more than ever.
– Above all, it has been a tremendous privilege to witness at such close quarters the incredible knowledge, drive for innovation and ability to find solutions that exist within businesses. It is something that I will always carry with me.
What do you think is the biggest challenge facing business in Europe right now?
– Europe is facing a number of major challenges. Ukraine and the pandemic have caused great suffering and hardship for Europe’s citizens and businesses. It is clear to me that, during these times, Europe needs a united European business community. Our common European values of freedom and democracy are now more relevant than ever.
Persson also highlights the green transition as a priority.
– Reducing emissions and halting climate change is the major issue for our time, and is a task that European business has taken up with all its ability. In return, politicians must provide business with the right conditions to reduce emissions.