Closing Keynote Panel: Fibre and data centres: collaborating to enhance global AI leadership

03 Jun 2026
Discovery Stage, hosted by Schneider Electric
Green Zone

The growth of AI and cloud computing spurring data centre demand has led to the need for expanded fibre optic infrastructure to increase connectivity. Building direct, low-latency and scalable paths between key data centre hubs and growth areas is a key priority for both data centre operators and fibre companies. This panel explores:  

  • Which markets will we see increased demand for connectivity in the next 12 months? 

  • Build or buy: are hyperscalers utilising existing infra or newbuild capacity? 

  • Where can suppliers assist with hollow core fibre and improved transmission? 

  • How is rising demand affecting project delivery timelines? 

  • What role does dark fibre play in maintaining seamless connectivity for data centres? 

Chairperson
Andrew van der Haar
Andrew van der Haar, Founder and Managing Director - Fiber Carrier Association
Speakers
Trent Farrell
Trent Farrell, VP Infrastructure Strategy - Groq
Falk Weinreich
Falk Weinreich, CEO - PORTUS DATA CENTERS
Simon Masri
Simon Masri, President - C3NTRO TELECOM
Joe Scattareggia
Joe Scattareggia, EVP - Infrastructure & Connectivity - COLT TECHNOLOGY SERVICES
Robert Blackburn
Robert Blackburn, VP, xScale Strategy & Product - EQUINIX