The 5G Infrastructure Association (5G IA) elected a new sixteen-member Governing Board for a two-year term, including representatives from major manufacturers, operators, research institutes, and SMEs. Dr. Colin Willcock was appointed Chairman and Dr. Hugo Tullberg as Vice-Chairman to lead the association as it prepares for the new ‘Smart Networks and Services’ (SNS) Partnership under the Horizon Europe programme. In this role, the 5G IA will serve as the private sector representative jointly managing the SNS to support European technological sovereignty and the development of 6G capabilities. To align with this expanded scope, the association is broadening its membership base and plans to change its name to reflect the new partnership.
Keywords: Smart Networks and Services, European Partnership, technological sovereignty, digital transitions, 6G systems