2026 Madrid Energy Conference

Energy & Natural Resources Industry Sector Group Co-Chairs Beth Viola and José Vicente Zapata will speak at the 2026 Madrid Energy Conference, a leading global forum serving as the nexus for Latin American and European energy leaders to debate energy transition solutions and drive energy supply transformation. Holland & Knight will once again sponsor this event, which will feature presentations on topics including geopolitical developments and their effects on international investment and partnerships, natural gas and liquefied natural gas (LNG) capacity, energy security, energy infrastructure, sustainable fuels, renewable energy projects and more. Ms. Viola and Mr. Zapata will each speak on the second day of the event.

Ms. Viola's panel will focus on the European Union's (EU) Global Gateway as a strategic investment platform. She will explore how the EU's gateway offers an alternative for investors as the U.S.-China relationship continues to evolve, from the Mercosur agreement to electoral cycles and political risks. The session will offer a snapshot on where opportunities lie and what factors Latin American business leaders should keep in mind as they evaluate options.

Mr. Zapata's session will also touch on geopolitics and will center on Venezuela, specifically identifying realistic pathways for reengagement and investment. Speakers will contrast political optics with business reality, talking about the real need for stability, institutional credibility and governance and how regulatory and sanctions regimes constrain openings in the energy sector. They will also explain the country's new Hydrocarbons Law and what it means for Venezuela's oil and gas industry. The discussion will impart concrete, practical guidance for companies interested in Venezuela but also wanting to maintain compliance and protect business interests.

Session Times and Topics

The New Geopolitical Context for Europe and Latin America
April 28, 2026 | 11:05 – 11:00 a.m.
Speaker: Beth Viola

Venezuela – What's Next?
April 28, 2026 | 11:35 a.m. – 12:35 p.m.
Speaker: José Vicente Zapata