(ANSA) - UDINE, 08 MAR - Italy needs a paradigm shift in innovation and youth to become internationally competitive again. This is one of the key messages from Open Dialogues for the Future 2025, a two-day event focused on geopolitical and economic global scenarios organized by the Pordenone-Udine Chamber of Commerce and the Ambrosetti Foundation and directed by Federico Rampini. On the final day of the forum, which concluded yesterday in Udine, Alec Ross (Bologna Business School) highlighted that "the founders of the big American tech companies were very young and would not have been listened to in Italy," also criticizing the gap between academia and the market. Elena Alberti (Penske Automotive Italy) shared, "In the US, at 22, I was heard. In Italy, young people only face obstacles." Federico Rampini concluded by stating that "youth empowerment is crucial for innovation." Throughout the two-day event, there was an in-depth debate with multiple voices. Giovanni Da Pozzo, President of the Chamber of Commerce, reiterated the strategic role of Friuli Venezia Giulia in international relations. Michelangelo Agrusti, President of Confindustria Alto Adriatico, expressed concern about economic uncertainty. Professor Sylvie Goulard and expert Nathalie Tocci warned about the risk of "growing American hostility." President of Unioncamere, Andrea Prete, emphasized that "Europe must overcome old ideological principles and focus on economic growth." According to the Friuli Venezia Giulia Region President, Massimiliano Fedriga, "Europe must build strategic autonomy, especially in energy. The Port of Trieste is central to development. EU regulations on Artificial Intelligence risk stalling innovation." Matteo Zoppas, President of ICE, called for optimism, stating, "Italian exports have grown by 30% since 2019," while Brunello Rosa of the London School of Economics urged, "A European digital currency is needed for economic independence." Camilla Benedetti, Vice President of the steel giant Danieli, stated, "Tariffs are not a threat to competitive companies that focus on quality, service, and innovation." Benedetta Berti of NATO's Office of the Secretary-General emphasized that "America must focus on the Indo-Pacific axis for the Chinese threat. There needs to be greater European engagement in defense." The third edition concluded with Giovanni Da Pozzo's closing remarks, announcing, "In 2026, we will return with even broader collaborations." (ANSA).