*Time indicated in Eastern European Summer Time (EEST)
Panel discussions 2023, Day 1
Agenda 2023
09:00 - 10:00
Policy & Strategy Stage
Opening ceremony
On October 18th, during the Opening ceremony of 5G Techritory 2023, we will hear opening keynote speeches and afterwards the Minister of Transport of Latvia, Kaspars Briškens, and the Minister of Digital Transformation of Ukraine and Vice Prime Minister for Innovations, Development of Education, Science & Technologies, Mykhailo Fedorov, will sign a Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation for Ukraine’s digital transformation.
This session will be streamed on live.5gtechritory.com
Evika Siliņa
Prime Minister of the Republic of Latvia, Cabinet of Ministers/ Republic of Latvia
Karen Ellemann
Secretary General, Nordic Council of Ministers
Seizo Onoe
Director, Telecommunication Standardization Bureau, International Telecommunication Union
Kaspars Briškens
Minister, Ministry of Transport of the Republic of Latvia
Mykhailo Fedorov
Vice Prime Minister for Innovations, Development of Education, Science & Technologies — Minister of Digital Transformation of Ukraine, Ministry of Digital Transformation of Ukraine
10:00 - 10:50
Policy & Strategy Stage
Opening panel discussion: Digitalization through connectivity - outlook for 2024
In the opening panel discussion of 5G Techritory 2023, “Digitalization through Connectivity – Outlook for 2024,”, high-level representatives from leading organizations in the field will share their expert insights and predictions for the next year. We will discuss the transformative potential of connectivity as our panelists explore emerging technologies, trends, and strategies that will shape the digital landscape in 2024. Gain valuable perspectives on the role of connectivity in driving innovation, economic growth, and societal advancements.
This session will be streamed on live.5gtechritory.com
Marios Nicolaou
Business Development Director, p-NET
Audrey Plonk
Head of the Digital Economy Policy Division, OECD
Jaroslaw Ponder
Head of the ITU Office for Europe, International Telecommunication Union
Zaneta Vegnere
Deputy Head of Cabinet of Executive Vice-President Dombrovskis, European Commission
10:50 - 11:00
Policy & Strategy Stage
Keynote Speech - Metaverse For All
This keynote speech will delve into the crucial aspects of setting the framework for the metaverse – an expansive digital realm that converges physical and virtual experiences. The address will provide valuable insights into how this rapidly evolving landscape is transforming the way societies interact, and communicate.
Furthermore, this keynote will offer an insightful overview of the efforts undertaken by the ITU Focus Group on metaverse. As a driving force behind the advancement of this transformative technology, attendees will gain a comprehensive understanding of the group’s initiatives and accomplishments, shedding light on its pivotal role in shaping the metaverse’s development.
This session will be streamed on live.5gtechritory.com
Cristina Bueti
Counsellor, ITU
11:00 - 12:00
Policy & Strategy Stage
Special session on ITU Focus Group on metaverse – “Shaping a European vision for openness, safety and respect”
In this panel discussion, hosted by the ITU, experts and stakeholders from across Europe will come together to explore the potential of the metaverse and discuss crucial aspects related to openness, safety, and respect within this emerging immersive world. Delve into topics such as user rights, privacy, ethical considerations, and standards for building a metaverse that upholds European values.
More information: https://www.itu.int/metaverse/2nd-special-session-fg-mv/
This session will be streamed on live.5gtechritory.com
Per Fröjdh
Vice-Chairman / VP International Standards, ITU Focus Group on Metaverse / Ericsson
Rolf Werner
Head of Europe, Nokia
Walter Greenleaf
Neuroscientist, Stanford University, Stanford Virtual Human Interaction Lab
Pilar Orero
Professor, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB)
Christina Yan Zhang
CEO and Founder, The Metaverse Institute
Cristina Martinez
Vice-chair ITU FG on MV - Deputy Head of Unit, European Commission
Gatis Ozols
Undersecretary for Digital Transformation, Ministry of Environmental Protection and Regional Development
12:00 - 13:00
Lunch break
13:00 - 13:40
Policy & Strategy Stage
Digital Accessibility
This session will focus on the current state of digital accessibility, the necessary actions to be taken, and the shared responsibilities among stakeholders in ensuring comprehensive digital accessibility.
The session will kick off with a keynote presentation by Elind Sulmina titled “ICT Accessibility to Bridge the Digital Divide: Spotlight on ITU’s Role” and then move over to a fireside chat.
Our panelists, consisting of experts in accessibility, policy, and technology, will examine the key challenges and opportunities associated with achieving digital accessibility compliance.
Gain valuable insights into the implications of the European Accessibility Directive, its requirements, and the roles of various entities in promoting inclusivity and equal access in the digital realm.
The keynote speech will be streamed on live.5gtechritory.com
Elind Sulmina
Project Officer, International Telecommunication Union
Lina Sarma
Board Member, Riga TechGirls
Daina Podzina
Independent consultant, researcher, Accessibility EU national expert , NGO Apeirons
Sigrid Jessen
Research Fellow, Nordregio Research Institute
13:00 - 13:50
Innovation & Technology Stage
24/7 connectivity for defence forces - how do we provide it?
This enlightening discussion aims to shape the future of 24/7 connectivity for defense forces, ensuring they remain connected, informed, and empowered in the face of evolving challenges.
As the modern soldier and battlefield demand uninterrupted connectivity, our experts will delve into the challenges and explore the best tools or combination of tools to meet this critical requirement. Our panelists will discuss various options on the table, including private networks on wheels, satellite communication, and Open RAN solutions.
Discover innovative strategies and best practices for delivering reliable and secure connectivity in dynamic defense environments, enabling effective communication, situational awareness, and mission success.
This session will be streamed on live.5gtechritory.com
Baiba Braze
Ambassador for Special Assignments, MFA
Ingmārs Pūķis
VP & Member of the Management Board, LMT
Philippe Agard
Head of Vertical Defense, Nokia
Mattias Männi
5G Program Manager, NATO CCD COE
Jānis Garisons
State Secretary, Ministry of Defence of the Republic of Latvia
Henrik Jansson
Head of SI Business Group, Samsung Networks
13:00 - 13:50
XG Stage
Indoor 5G enabling new revenue streams
As the majority of 5G use cases are expected to occur indoors, this session will delve into the opportunities and challenges associated with indoor 5G deployment. Our panel of experts will explore the remaining technical aspects that require refinement for optimal indoor 5G performance.
Furthermore, we will dive into the exciting realm of new business cases that indoor 5G enables, as well as the regulatory aspect of indoor 5G. Discover how this advanced connectivity technology unlocks innovative revenue streams in various sectors, such as smart buildings, industrial automation, healthcare, and more.
This session will be streamed on live.5gtechritory.com
Dean Bubley
Director, Disruptive Analysis
Aigars Runčis
Ventures Department Director, LMT
Sietse van der Gaast
Co-chair/Senior enforcement officer, BEREC WNE Working Group/ACM Netherlands
Mikael Lundman
CEO, Proptivity
14:00 - 14:50
Policy & Strategy Stage
Solving the lack of digitally skilled workforce with AI - Powered by Ministry of Environmental Protection and Regional Development
As industries become increasingly dependent on digital technologies, the demand for a skilled workforce continues to outpace supply. In this panel discussion, we will explore the pressing issue of the shortage of digitally skilled professionals across industries and examine whether AI can provide a solution.
Our panel of experts will examine the potential of AI in bridging the skills gap while emphasizing the crucial aspect of governance and lawmaking. We will discuss how AI can be harnessed to train, upskill, and reskill individuals, ensuring that regulatory frameworks and policies are in place to govern its implementation. Additionally, we will address the risks associated with advancing in this direction, including concerns about job displacement, bias, ethical considerations, and the need for responsible and inclusive AI practices.
This session will be streamed on live.5gtechritory.com
Ieva Treija
Editor in Chief, Labs of Latvia
Luukas Kristjan Ilves
CIO, Estonian Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications
Gatis Ozols
Undersecretary for Digital Transformation, Ministry of Environmental Protection and Regional Development
Nick Johnson
Head, UKTIN
Viktors Kupcis
Data Analytics Specialist, Google Cloud
14:00 - 14:50
Innovation & Technology Stage
Sensor networks in seaport infrastructure management. The role of mobile communication.
In this session, we will explore the critical role of mobile communication and sensor networks in the management of seaport infrastructure. Our panel, comprising representatives from seaports and technology companies, will delve into the deployment of IoT networks and mesh networks in seaports, enabling real-time monitoring and data collection for efficient port management. Discover how gathered data from sensor networks can be leveraged to optimize operations, enhance security, and improve overall efficiency in future ports.
This session will be streamed on live.5gtechritory.com
Rob Watson
Founder & Director, On The Layline
Ansis Zeltins
CEO, Freeport of Riga Authority
Martin Beltrop
Senior Director Enterprise Campus Edge, Nokia
Timo Rosendahl
Director, Traffic operations, Port Of HaminaKotka Ltd
Lukasz Ziolkowski
Senior Project Officer for Reporting Formalities, European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA)
Nikolaos Tsampieris
Senior Manager Innovation Deployment, ERTICO-ITS Europe
14:00 - 14:50
XG Stage
Economy around the Metaverse: Unlocking Value and Innovation in Mixed Reality Worlds
From advancements in cloud computing to the evolution of edge networks, we will discuss the transformative impact of metaverse infrastructure on industries, economies, and user experiences.
Our panel of experts will explore the essential components that drive the metaverse’s growth and sustainability, including the development of robust network architectures, cutting-edge hardware technologies, scalable infrastructure solutions, as well as business models that underpin the metaverse’s expansion and the strategic partnerships that drive innovation in this space.
This session will be streamed on live.5gtechritory.com
Madara Kalnina-Kalnmale
Co-founder, RedFrog, VR/AR Association
Christoph Leuze
Director, Stanford University, Visualization Lab
Walter Greenleaf
Neuroscientist, Stanford University, Stanford Virtual Human Interaction Lab
Sylvia Lu
Corporate Strategy / Advisory Board, u-blox / UKTIN
Ioannis Markopoulos
Head EU & International Business, NOVA ICT
Paul Ceely
Director of Technology Strategy, Digital Catapult
15:00 - 15:50
Innovation & Technology Stage
Cybersecurity in IoT
With the exponential growth of IoT devices expected to reach 27 billion by 2025, the risks associated with their implementation have become increasingly critical. In this session, experts in the field will provide valuable insights into the future of cyber security in IoT and discuss effective strategies for mitigating the risk factors.
Discover the latest advancements in IoT security technologies, threat landscape assessments, and best practices for ensuring the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of IoT ecosystems.
This session will be streamed on live.5gtechritory.com
Álvaro Neira
Partner, Axon
Egons Bušs
Security Director, LMT
Edgars Kiukucāns
Director of the Cybersecurity Policy Department, Ministry of Defence of Latvia
Didzis Ozoliņš
Systems Engineer, Palo Alto Networks
Dmitrijs Ņikitins
CTO, Tet Ltd.
15:00 - 15:50
XG Stage
There will be no Metaverse until there will be 6G
While some industry participants argue that we are not yet close to a fully realized metaverse, proponents will highlight the multitude of virtual reality (VR) and mixed reality (XR) use cases to support the claim that the metaverse is already here.
In this session, industry leaders will engage in a lively debate about the proximity of a functioning metaverse and its implications, while specifically exploring the role of 6G technology. This discussion aims to delve into the technical advancements required for a working metaverse and the potential role of 6G in shaping its development.
This session will be streamed on live.5gtechritory.com
Marios Nicolaou
Business Development Director, p-NET
Juliana Koza
Senior Manager Government Affairs, Qualcomm
Lucia D’Acunto
Senior Researcher, TNO
Paul Adams
Marketing Director, Nokia
Jeff Melanson
Strategic Partner, Unity Technologies
Pekka Rantala
Head of 6G Bridge Program, Business Finland
15:00 - 15:20
Policy & Strategy Stage
PIONEERING HANGAR-BASED DRONES FOR RAIL APPLICATIONS – RECEIVE ON-SITE INFORMATION ANY TIME FROM ANYWHERE
Titled “Pioneering hangar-based drones for rail applications – receive on-site information any time from anywhere”, this session offers a deep dive into the way we may monitor and maintain critical rail infrastructure. Joachim Edel from Frequentis will guide you through the transformative role of drones in gathering vast amounts of critical data for track inspections and other rail applications.
Additionally, Joachim will explain how reliable network service leads to automated drone dispatching and how Frequentis successfully got the first permit of its kind in Europe together with a rail operator.
This session will be streamed on live.5gtechritory.com
Joachim Edel
New Business Development Manager, Frequentis
15:30 - 15:50
Policy & Strategy Stage
Perceive the world and design a better future: the story of EDI
Perceiving the world and designing a better future by creating new knowledge, developing innovative technologies and demonstrating their practical significance in real-life applications” – is the mission of the Institute of Electronics and Computer Science in Latvia. Artificial intelligence, Space and Wearable technologies, Smart mobility, Robotics, Smart sensors and the Internet of Things – are just a few of our expert areas. Listen to the story of becoming the highest-rated scientific institution in Latvia specializing in the field of engineering sciences and technologies and find out about our cutting-edge Horizon Europe project experience.
See you in the future!
This session will be streamed on live.5gtechritory.com
Rihards Novickis
Senior Researcher, EDI, Institute of Electronics and Computer Science
16:00 - 16:50
Policy & Strategy Stage
Safe or sorry? Risk taking in public sector digitalization projects
This will be a lively panel discussion on the benefits and challenges of taking risks in public sector digitalization projects. Our panelists will explore the possibility of adopting an agile approach to service delivery, which prioritizes user feedback and iteration over traditional, waterfall-style development processes. We’ll also delve into the complexities of tender processes and how they can hinder or facilitate innovation in the public sector.
Don’t miss this dynamic discussion that aims to unravel the intricate balance between risk mitigation and the pursuit of innovative digital solutions, paving the way for more effective and user-centric public sector initiatives.
This session will be streamed on live.5gtechritory.com
Viesturs Celmins
Managing Director, VEFRESH
Minna Säpyskä-Aalto
Senior Expert, The Baltic Institute of Finland / City of Tampere
Iveta Strupkāja
Acting Director General, Investment and Development Agency of Latvia (LIAA)
Kaili Tamm
Chief Digital Officer, Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications of Estonia
Uldis Tatarčuks
CEO, Tet Ltd.
16:00 - 16:40
Innovation & Technology Stage
5G and 6G connectivity from the skies – the business models of satellite
Traditionally there has been strong separation between the satellite and terrestrial network sectors. However, recent developments have shown that satellite has a big role to play in the future of connectivity. Our experts will discuss what evolution is needed in both standards and business models, what positive examples there are already and if there actually is one perfect business model for satellite connectivity.
This session will be streamed on live.5gtechritory.com
Simona Lipstaite
Head of Europe, Access Partnership
Polyzois Kokkonis
Future Programmes Officer, European Space Agency
Tomas Hrozensky
Senior Researcher and Lead on European Engagement, European Space Policy Institute
Natalia Vicente
VP Public Affairs, GSOA
16:00 - 16:20
XG Stage
BroadWay to BroadEU.net : Supporting the establishment of the EU Critical Communication System (EUCCS)
With growing political support for Mission Critical mobile broadband, David Lund will delve into the pivotal role played by pan-European Mission Critical testbeds in developing technical maturity and operational procedures for a resilient network of mobile networks.
Discover the fascinating convergence of Satellite and Land Mobile technologies, a union that promises improved coverage and resilience for critical communication systems. David will explore the far-reaching benefits of Mission Critical 5G+ capabilities, emphasizing the positive impact on building a safer and more secure European society. This keynote promises to be an enlightening exploration of the future of critical communications in Europe.
David Lund
Coordinator BroadEU.net, Public Safety Communication Europe Forum
17:00 - 17:50
Innovation & Technology Stage
Digital Railways for the 2020s, 2030s and Beyond
Join us for a session that explores the future of railways in the digital age. We’ll kick off with an insightful keynote speech by the Minister of Transport of Latvia, Kaspars Briškens, who will provide a government perspective on the transformation of rail transport.
Next, Andy Billington, Innovation and Digital Architecture Senior Expert at Rail Baltica, will take the stage to deliver a keynote titled “Digital Railways for the 2030s and Beyond.” This Keynote will provide a high-level overview of some key technologies and approaches that can help “future proof” new infrastructure such as Rail Baltica.
The session culminates in a fireside chat led by Dean Bubley from Disruptive Analysis, titled “Building the Future: Digital Innovation in Greenfield Projects”. Joining Dean in this engaging discussion are industry leaders Andy Billington and Nadya Babych from the Ukrainian Ministry of Digital Transformation. This discussion will delve into the strategies, advantages, and transformative potential of leveraging digital technologies during the construction phase of railway projects.
This discussion is hosted by Rail Baltica.
This session will be streamed on live.5gtechritory.com
Kaspars Briškens
Minister, Ministry of Transport of the Republic of Latvia
Andy Billington
Innovation and Digital Architecture Senior Expert, RB Rail AS
Nadia Babych
Chief Specialist of the Mobile Broadband Development Department, Ministry of Digital Transformation of Ukraine
Dean Bubley
Director, Disruptive Analysis
17:00 - 17:20
Policy & Strategy Stage
Meaningful digital transformation for cities - Liepaja's steps to become a meaningful people-oriented Smart city and build a path to CityVerse
In this keynote, we will explore the tangible achievements that have reshaped Liepaja’s landscape and quality of life for its residents. Learn how digitalization has empowered citizens, improved public services, and fostered sustainable urban growth.
However, the journey does not end here. The keynote will challenge us to collectively work towards a shared vision – the path to CityVerse.
Salvis Roga
Deputy Chairman, Liepaja City Council
17:00 - 17:50
XG Stage
Why 6G? The need for the next generation Smart Networks & Services and lessons learned from previous generations
The world of telecoms is gearing up for 6G, the next generation of mobile networks expected by 2030. Promising more than just telecommunications, 6G aims to incorporate features like sensing and massive IoT, ushering in Smart Networks and Services (SNS). This raises questions about the actual need for 6G – is it solving a real market gap, or is it a solution in search of a problem?
A panel of experts from various telecom sectors, organized by 6G-IA, will explore these questions, considering diverse stakeholder needs, problems requiring 6G solutions, potential pitfalls, and lessons from previous network generations.
This discussion will be hosted by 6G SNS.
This session will be streamed on live.5gtechritory.com
Colin Willcock
Chairman of the Board, 6G-IA
Raffaele de Peppe
6GIA Board Member & Vice Chair, TIM
Tonko Obuljen
President of the Council, HAKOM
Uwe Baeder
Director International Relations ITU/UN, Rohde & Schwarz
Erzsebet Fitori
Executive Director, SNS JU
17:30 - 17:50
Policy & Strategy Stage
Mapping 5G in the Nordic-Baltic countries - Key insights from the Nordic-Baltic 5G Monitoring tool project
Initiated in 2021, the Nordic-Baltic 5G Monitoring project aimed to contribute to the development of a more integrated, connected, and inclusive Nordic Region. We developed an analytical tool to track 5G progress, going beyond mapping to showcase actual applications across various sectors.
As we approach the project’s final phase, we’re excited to showcase the latest outcomes and impacts and especially introduce the newly released DigiHUB and the Nordic-Baltic 5G Monitoring Tool – The 5G Data HUB.
The 5G DATA HUB serves as a dynamic 5G data dashboard. It features flexible filtering options that enable the customization of displayed data and metrics. This ensures alignment with the unique needs and priorities of different stakeholders, including industries, local and national policymakers, and regulators.
by Nordregio.
This session will be streamed on live.5gtechritory.com
Stefan Eriksson
Director, Nordic Council of Ministers' Office in Riga
Ana de Jesus
Senior Research Fellow, Nordregio
18:00 - 22:30
5G Techritory Networking Dinner
Meet and network with other in-person attendees in a casual atmosphere over a light dinner and drinks, which will be served at the Radisson Blu Hotel Latvija conference hall 2.
During the dinner, there will also be a chance to join a lively and informal discussion about industry-relevant topics at the Night Rump Session, led by esteemed industry experts.
Jānis Bārda
Chairman of the Board, VAS Elektroniskie sakari (Electronic Communications Office of Latvia)
Inese Andersone
Head of Riga city development committee, Riga City council
20:00 - 21:00
XG Stage
Night Rump Session
During the 5G Techritory dinner, we will host an evening rump session. Our expert co-hosts will informally discuss a relevant topic to the industry and encourage active audience participation.
Participation available only in-person.
Will Townsend
VP & Principal Analyst/Contributor, Moor Insights & Strategy/Forbes
Dean Bubley
Director, Disruptive Analysis