Whether it’s microorganisms revolutionising manufacturing or advanced therapies for rare disease  patients, biotechnology is leading the way, and Belgium is on it. 

Join us online at the Made in Belgium for Europe - Biotechnology Council Presidency  Summit on Wednesday, February 21, 2024, at 10:00 AM (CET). 

This exciting event will bring together experts, policymakers, industry leaders, and innovators in the  biotechnology field from Belgium and across Europe to discuss the latest advancements and trends  in biotech for rare diseases patients and agri-food applications, as well as the policies that shape  them. 

Whether you are a researcher, entrepreneur, policy wonk or simply curious about the future of  biotechnology, this online conversation is the perfect platform to connect, learn, and inspire. 

PROVISIONAL AGENDA

10:00 – 11:00  advanced therapies for rare diseases

Presentation of Belgium Council Presidency priorities and work on healthcare, including the revision of the general pharmaceutical legislation. Discussion on the regulatory, legislative and business environment needed to support global competitiveness and European innovation made in Europe for rare disease patients

Thomas Van Cangh Cabinet of Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo

Philippe De Backer Newton Biocapital, former MEP and BE Minister

Jérôme Van Biervliet Flemish Institute for Biotechnology (VIB)

Eric Halioua PDC*Line Pharma

Moderator: Tineke Van hooland Bio.be/essenscia

11:00 – 12:00  microorganisms for agrifood applications

Presentation of Belgium Council Presidency priorities and work on agriculture and food safety, including the proposal on new genomic techniques for plants. Discussion on the need for further policy action on microorganisms and its impact on Europe's agrifood and industrial sector

Jens Boyen Belgium Permanent Representation to the EU

Barna Kovacs BIOEAST Initiative & Hungary Permanent Representation to the EU

Hendrik Waegeman Bio Base Europe Pilot Plant

Sofia Morais Puratos

Isabel Vercauteren Aphea.bio

Moderator: Willem Dhooge flanders.bio

Please register here to secure your spot and be part of this online conversation. If you have any  questions, insights or suggestions, do not hesitate to contact José Peres at j.peres@europabio.org.