Portugal, Spain, and France Forge Stronger EU Ties at 2nd AECT Grouping Meeting

Portugal, Spain, and France Forge Stronger EU Ties at 2nd AECT Grouping Meeting

At the 2nd Grouping Meeting Iberian European Territorial Cooperation (AECT) held in Vigo, Spain, regions from France, Spain, and Portugal reached a consensus on diversifying their sources of funding and enhancing cooperation with other European Union (EU) territories. The aim is to gain more influence in decision-making processes, which they believe would ensure the continuity and consistency of their work while also broadening the range of projects they can contribute to.

The European Grouping of Territorial Cooperation (EGTCs) from these three countries emphasized the necessity to explore new forms of funding through various national and community programs. This comes in addition to the Interreg programs, which have been fundamental to the activity of Iberian EGTCs. Representatives from the AECT Aquitaine/Euskadi/Navarra, the AECT Pyrenees Mediterranean, the AECT Rio Minho, AECT Galiza – North of Portugal (GNP), and AECT Chaves-Veríne AECT Duero-Douro were all present at the meeting.

Participants also noted that the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of the EU’s border regions and their 150 million inhabitants. While Brussels, Madrid, Lisbon, or Paris may legislate, it is these regions that embody the true spirit of the EU every day. This sentiment underscores the importance of these regions in the functioning and spirit of the European Union. Gaining more influence in decision-making centers could thus further enhance their role and contribution to the EU’s overall goals and objectives.

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Portugal’s Role in the EU

Portugal also plays a significant role within the EU, with 21 members of the European Parliament from Portugal actively participating in EU laws and coordinating policies. Portugal communicates with the EU institutions through its permanent representation in Brussels, ensuring that the country’s interests and policies are pursued as effectively as possible in the EU. Portugal has also held the presidency of the Council of the EU several times, chairing and helping determine the agenda of Council meetings in each policy area.

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The Path Ahead

The consensus reached in the 2nd Grouping Meeting Iberian European Territorial Cooperation signifies a united pursuit for more influence within the EU. As these countries explore new avenues of funding and enhance cooperation, they are set to contribute more significantly to the EU’s overall goals and objectives. It also underscores the importance of regional cooperation and the role of border regions in the functioning of the EU. The path ahead may be challenging, but with a united front, France, Spain, and Portugal are set to play an even bigger role in shaping the future of the EU.