GPN's 38th General Meeting in Delhi, India: A Landmark Event for the Future of Passenger Transport

GPN’s 38th General Meeting took place from February 27 to March 1, 2025, in the dynamic city of Delhi, India. This highly anticipated gathering brought together industry leaders, GPN members, and partners to discuss the future of coach transportation, share insights, and strengthen collaborations. The event featured an engaging agenda packed with strategic discussions, networking opportunities, and cultural experiences.

A Grand Welcome in Delhi

The meeting commenced with a warm welcome to delegates in Delhi, a city that blends historical grandeur with modern vibrancy. Participants arrived in the Indian capital, ready to engage in thought-provoking discussions and explore opportunities for growth. The evening of February 26 set the tone with a Welcome Dinner, where attendees had the chance to reconnect and network in a relaxed atmosphere.

Key Highlights from the Meeting

Day 1: Setting the Stage for the Future

On February 27, the General Meeting officially kicked off with a Chairman’s Welcome and GPN Update, providing an overview of GPN’s latest developments, activities and stats.

The Shaping the Future of GPN Forum was a key session that revisited the objectives of the previous five-year plan. Members and partners participated in a dynamic discussion about achievements, challenges, and priorities for the next five-year plan (2025-2030). This interactive session allowed stakeholders to voice their perspectives on the future direction of the network.

The afternoon took a cultural turn with a walking tour of Dilli Haat, an open-air market that showcases India’s diverse heritage through crafts, textiles, and regional cuisine. The day concluded with a delightful dinner, fostering deeper connections among attendees.

Day 2: Industry Insights and Leadership Announcements

February 28 featured a lineup of expert-led sessions and panel discussions:

Driving Success: The Purple Mobility Journey – Prasanna Patwardhan, CEO of Prasanna Mobility (GPN India), shared insights on innovative transportation solutions and the evolving mobility landscape in India.
India Tour Operator Panel – Representatives from leading Indian tour operators, including Delphis Travel, Veena World, and Miki Travel, discussed their requirements when working with coach companies. This session provided GPN members with valuable insights into the expectations and challenges of this growing market.
The Future of Road Transport – Amit Bhatt, Managing Director for India at the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT), presented an insightful session on sustainable mobility trends and the impact of clean transportation policies on the industry.

Another significant highlight was the Meet the Leaders: GPN Officers for 2025 session, where the newly elected GPN Board of Directors was introduced. Rogier Staal (Royal Oostenrijk Group | GPN Netherlands) was announced as the new GPN Chairman, succeeding Agnes Pastuszak, who was recognized for her outstanding contributions over the past five years. The new Vice-Chairman, Luis Pedrero (Cartour | GPN Spain), was also introduced.

Following this, Volvo’s Managing Director Benelux, Bas Dubois unveiled the location for the next GPN General Meeting, which will take place in Gothenburg, Sweden, on November 26-28, 2025, hosted by Volvo.

The day wrapped up with a transfer to Agra, setting the stage for an unforgettable cultural experience.

Day 3: Exploring India’s Heritage

On March 1, delegates embarked on a breathtaking sightseeing tour of the Taj Mahal, one of India’s most treasured landmarks. This immersive experience offered participants a deeper appreciation of India’s rich history and architectural marvels.

Looking Ahead

GPN’s 38th General Meeting in Delhi was a resounding success, filled with meaningful discussions, strategic insights, and unforgettable cultural experiences. As the network looks ahead to the next General Meeting in Gothenburg, members and partners remain committed to driving innovation, fostering collaboration, and shaping the future of passenger transport.

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to build a stronger, more connected GPN community!