en
Slovenščina
Italiano
Science and Research Centre Koper (ZRS Koper) and EMUNI University initiate discussions with regional stakeholders on establishing EZTS ISTRA – a platform for joint development projects and more effective access to EU funding.
After several years, the importance of regional cooperation has once again moved to the forefront of discussion in Slovenian Istria. At the initiative of ZRS Koper and EMUNI University, the municipalities of Slovenian Istria, Izola General Hospital (SBI), the Primorska Chamber of Commerce (PGZ), and the Regional Development Centre Koper – Regional Development Agency for Istria, Brkini and the Karst, with the support of the Ministry of Cohesion and Regional Development, have initiated discussions on establishing EZTS ISTRA a European Grouping of Territorial Cooperation. Through this structure, municipalities, regions, public institutions and other public bodies will be able to implement cross-border development programmes and projects.
The initiative stems from the fields of research and education and draws on the positive impact of similar structures in other countries. Its aim is to identify new avenues and areas of cross-sectoral cooperation in healthcare, the economy, tourism, culture, infrastructure and public administration, while taking into account the specific characteristics of the Adriatic and the wider Mediterranean region. An EZTS is a special legal form of cooperation between local and regional authorities from different EU Member States. It enables the implementation of joint projects, improved coordination of cross-border activities, easier access to European funding, and the strengthening of regional and social cohesion.
An EZTS is a tool that allows local communities, businesses, educational and research institutions, and public bodies to coordinate their activities more effectively, particularly in accessing European funding and strengthening cohesion across the region. It provides a platform that facilitates cooperation and increases the effectiveness of joint efforts.
The initiative demonstrates the willingness of the participating stakeholders to bring together their different interests and jointly seek solutions to the major challenges currently facing the region. Experience gained from previous attempts to establish EGTC structures in Istria and the surrounding area should serve as an opportunity to learn and improve the approach, with a clear emphasis on involving key stakeholders and developing practical solutions.
The meeting provided an opportunity to present the initiative, seek support and gauge interest in the next steps towards establishing EZTS ISTRA. Its purpose was to hold a joint discussion on potential areas of cooperation and assess the partners’ interest in further activities. Following the meeting, the main areas of cooperation and priorities are expected to be clearly defined, paving the way for the invitation and inclusion of other key stakeholders from partner countries.
On this occasion, the stakeholders signed a Memorandum of Cooperation, formally expressing their intention to work together and outlining the main substantive and organisational foundations for establishing the joint platform.
An EZTS is a recognised form of cross-border territorial cooperation established under European legislation. It enables local and regional partners to organise joint development programmes and projects in areas including mobility, infrastructure, digitalisation, education, innovation and sustainable development, thereby strengthening economic and social cohesion across national borders.
