Berlin-Brandenburg Aims for European Leadership in AI, Mobility, and Defense by 2035
Berlin, July 14 – The states of Berlin and Brandenburg are set to become a leading European hub for future technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), mobility, and defense. This ambitious goal is outlined in the newly adopted Innovation Strategy for the Berlin-Brandenburg Capital Region 2035, a joint initiative by the Berlin Senate and the Brandenburg state government.
The strategy’s core objective is to bolster existing businesses, encourage their expansion, and attract new companies to the region, thereby securing crucial funding from both federal and European sources.
Synergy for Economic Growth
Martina Klement (CSU), Brandenburg’s Minister for Economic Affairs, emphasized the symbiotic relationship between the two states. “If we effectively combine our strengths and coordinate well, we can both benefit,” Klement stated. She acknowledged Berlin’s higher number of patent registrations, start-ups, and international appeal, while highlighting Brandenburg’s capacity to support Berlin in transitioning innovations into production.
Franziska Giffey (SPD), Berlin’s Senator for Economic Affairs, echoed this sentiment, asserting, “We are stronger when we act as a region.” Giffey underscored the importance of future-proofing the region across digitalization, climate protection, and the security and defense industry, particularly in light of an aging population. She views Berlin-Brandenburg as a contender against major metropolitan areas like London and Paris.
Economic Performance and Competitive Landscape
In 2024, Berlin’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per capita was 127 percent above the EU average, with Brandenburg at 86 percent. In comparison, the greater Paris area (Ile de France) stood at 160 percent, and Hamburg’s purchasing power-adjusted GDP per capita was approximately 96 percent above the EU average.
Five Key Future Fields
The new strategy identifies five critical future fields for Berlin and Brandenburg to strengthen: mobility, digital technologies, health, energy, and sustainable production. While joint innovation efforts between the two states date back to 2011, technological advancements necessitate a revised approach.
Giffey highlighted that digital progress requires data centers, which in turn demand space and renewable energy-areas where Brandenburg can significantly contribute. Berlin, she noted, is home to hundreds of companies specializing in robotics, optics, and drone technology. Klement pointed to the potential for drone testing in Brandenburg. However, Giffey allayed concerns, stating unequivocally that the capital region “will under no circumstances” become a arms production site.
As an example of innovative mobility, Klement cited the US electric car manufacturer Tesla in Grünheide, Brandenburg. Tesla also plans to establish an innovation center in Berlin.
Implementation and Future Outlook
Sebastian Stietzel, President of the Berlin Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IHK Berlin), expressed expectations for concrete measures. He remarked that “paper is patient,” emphasizing the importance of implementation.
The dpa news agency reported on this development, which was also featured in the Berliner Abendblatt, a local news outlet. Further information can be obtained by contacting [email protected].
