Remembering a Legacy: The Importance of the Euroregion
The recent disappearance of Francesc Antich has brought back to the table a significant moment that I experienced in 2009 at the Bellver Castle in Palma. On that occasion, the ceremony for the transfer of the presidency of the Pyrenees-Mediterranean Euroregion, which Antich held, to George Frêche, president of Languedoc-Roussillon, was attended by José Montilla, president of Catalonia. This event not only commemorated the figure of Pasqual Maragall, a great promoter of this initiative, but also symbolized a collective aspiration for integration and cooperation.
The Euroregion: An Evolving Historical Dream
I believe that the Euroregion represents the actualization of the dream of James I, a project that crosses history and seeks to transform the Pyrenees into a bridge between cultures and economies, instead of a border. The Battle of Muret in 1213 is a manifestation of this interconnection, and every trip to Montpellier reminds me of the importance of this legacy.
Clippings from History
The departure of the Government of Aragon from the Euroregion, due to disputes with the Generalitat, and the outbreak of the independence process, were hard blows for this initiative. However, this chapter is now history.
Looking to the Future: Opportunities and Challenges
President Salvador Illa has made a firm commitment to the Euroregion, recognising its strategic importance. Currently, only the regions of Occitania, Catalonia and the Balearic Islands are part of it, but my wish is for Aragon, the Valencian Community and Murcia to also join, as well as Andorra, which, despite not being a member of the EU, plays a relevant role in this Euroregional network.
The Mediterranean Corridor: An Engine of Connection
With the imminent activation of the Mediterranean Corridor, the connection between Tarragona and Valencia will mark a before and after. The new Renfe service between Barcelona and Toulouse is a step in the right direction, although France’s slowness in adapting the Perpignan-Montpellier section is an obstacle that must be overcome.
Building a Collaboration Network
The interconnection between cities such as Toulouse, Montpellier, Zaragoza and Barcelona will create a dynamic ecosystem capable of attracting talent and fostering economic growth. With a population of 23.5 million and a diversified economy, the Euroregion can become a pole of attraction in southern Europe.
A New Governance Model
The Euroregional project must be inclusive, excluding any extremist tendency. The governance promoted by the European Commission, with the collaboration of different political forces, can be a model for the construction of this new Euroregional identity.
A Shared Commitment
The president of the Balearic Islands, Margalida Prohens, demonstrates that it is possible to dissociate oneself from radical discourses, and the president of Aragon, Jorge Azcón, promotes a constructive dialogue with Catalonia. Thus, the creation of a Euroregional consensus is feasible.
Visions for 2025: An Average for the Euroregion
My wish for 2025 is that EL TRIANGLE becomes the first medium that integrates information from the Euroregion and Andorra, contributing to making the dream of Jaume I a reality: a space of connection, cooperation and shared prosperity.