A new horizon for the regions of southern Europe
Xavier Bernard-Sans has been the Secretary General of the Euroregion Pyrenees Mediterranean for the last eight years. This organization, which connects the Balearic Islands, Catalonia and the Occitan region, seeks to establish a closer collaboration between these areas, facilitating the flow of investments in the European Union and promoting cultural and economic cohesion.
Two decades of history and challenges to face
With twenty years of history, the Euroregion is still unknown to many of its citizens. Bernard-Sans emphasizes its creation as a response to the need to unite territories with common interests, with the aim of bringing the European Union closer to local realities.
The origin and formation of Euroregion
The 1990’s were crucial for the emergence of this initiative, with efforts to connect Catalonia and Occitania. Although the initial project included other regions such as Aragon and the Valencian Country, the Balearic Islands finally were the ones that were integrated, creating an entity with significant potential.
Euroregion Objectives: a regional Europe
The purposes of the Euroregion include the promotion of cultural, environmental and economic cooperation between the regions, with special attention to local entities.
Evolution of cooperation
The Euroregion went from an initial phase without formal structures to a legal consolidation as a European Grouping of Territorial Cooperation (AECT), allowing greater autonomy and capacity for action.
A sustainable and collaborative future
With the recent presidency of Marga Prohens, President of the Balearic Government, the Euroregion proposes to address issues such as blue economics, tourist sustainability and water management, which are priority for all regions involved.
Financing and resources
The entity handles a budget of approximately 1.2 million euros, of which a significant part comes from the regional administrations. In addition, it has been able to attract European funds that have allowed to fund key projects for regional development.
Impact projects in the Balearic Islands
Among the most important projects, the PSAMIDS has contributed to the sustainability of the ports, while the LIFE WAT’Saveuse has helped reduce water consumption in the tourism sector, involving collaborations with hotels and municipalities.
Innovation and Sustainable Agriculture
The Euroregion is also focusing on agricultural projects for efficiency in water and energy use, working in association with local companies to promote circularity in production.
The importance of culture and innovation
With an investment for culture, the Euroregion seeks to promote artistic and educational exchanges, while promoting innovation to help companies compete globally.
With a clear vision towards the future, the Euroregion Pyrenees Mediterranean is positioned as an essential platform for growth and collaboration between its regions, with the aim of addressing the common challenges of the 21st century.
