Digitalization also offers far-reaching new solutions. Not since the computer replaced the typewriter in the workplace have there been such revolutionary changes in the world of work as we are currently experiencing. We also feel this as consumers in our everyday lives: today, individualized products have long been standard. Deutsche Messe is also responding to current developments: Thus, under the impression of the converging industries, it has combined the two leading trade fairs "Industrial Automation" and "MDA" into the now annual "Integrated Automation, Motion & Drives" (IAMD). In our interview, which you can read from page 10, Arno Reich, Global Director IAMD and Digital Factory, says: "In the age of digitalization, innovation cycles are changing. In addition, Industry 4.0 is blurring industry boundaries. [...] With the merger, we have therefore followed the logic of a market that is increasingly offering and demanding cross-industry and cross-system solutions as well as networked products." We can therefore look forward to seeing how the new leading trade fair IAMD presents itself.

The importance of global cooperation in addition to cooperation between individual companies is illustrated by this year's Hannover Messe partner country, Mexico. The country is not having an easy time at the moment. Economic and social disputes with its powerful neighbor, the USA, are putting a strain on the Mexican economy. However, this can certainly be an opportunity, as the circumstances are forcing the country to look for other partners on the global market. Mexico's Minister of Economy, Ildefonso Guajardo, says: "Mexico's participation is an excellent opportunity for us to further expand trade and economic relations between our country and Germany. [...] The companies in our countries are united by the deep conviction that free trade is the engine of growth for our economies."

As hopeful and optimistic as the Mexican minister is about the world's largest industrial trade fair, his appearance there is sure to be a success. As the companies in Industry 4.0 are already demonstrating, the whole world would certainly do well to move a little closer together again. I wish you every success and exciting insights and encounters in Hanover. am