Freistadt focus: Europe discusses border regions of the future!

Freistadt focus: Europe discusses border regions of the future!

Freistadt, Österreich - At the beginning of June, a remarkable board meeting of the European border regions (AGEND) in Freistadt. The Euregio chairwoman, Gabriele Lackner-Strauss, welcomed around 45 delegates from 14 European countries and 29 border regions. The focus of the talks was the current situation on the European borders and the challenges that border regions are facing today.

A representative of the Finnish region of South Karelia reported particularly impressively about a recognizable decline in cooperation and communication at the Finnish-Russian border. Lackner-Strauss made it clear how important the border regions are for growing together in Europe and pointed out their vulnerability compared to central metropolitan areas.

Future of the border regions in view

A central topic was the planned EU program period from 2028 to 2034. The representatives of the border regions want to clarify that they will endeavor to develop European border areas at the European Commission. Because over a third of the EU population lives in these areas, which underlines the need for a solid support policy, especially according to the challenges shown by the Covid 19 pandemic. Border closings not only had an impact on passenger transport, but also on the economic stability of the region.

The working group of European border regions is the oldest of its kind in Europe and was founded in 1971. Her seat is in Gronau (Westphalia) and it represents the interests of around 100 border regions at European level, as the Wikipedia . The goals of the AGENCE include promoting the exchange between the border regions and improving cooperation with EU institutions.

impressive supporting program

In addition to the content discussions, there was also the opportunity to get to know the economic and cultural diversity of the “Mühlviertel to South Bohemia” region better. A highlight of the program was a tour of the historic old town of Freistadt and a visit to the picturesque city of Krumau, which is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Anger plays an important role in the awareness of the challenges that border regions have to face. Together with partners from countries such as France, Poland and the Benelux countries, it is being used to reduce bureaucratic hurdles and to strengthen the cross-border solidarity, such as the Foreign Office emphasized. Initiatives to improve cross -border cooperation are particularly important to promote mobility and create economic synergies.

Overall, the meeting in Freistadt offered not only a valuable exchange between the European border regions, but also new perspectives for the future of cooperation in Europe. With commitment and the right impulses, the border regions can further strengthen their role as bridges between cultures and markets.