Spain and Portugal hold meetings on cross-border cooperation

Representatives from Spain and Portugal gathered in Tordesillas and Badajoz to discuss cross-border cooperation and celebrate 40 years of bilateral relations following their entry into the European Communities.

The XVII Meeting of the Hispano-Portuguese Commission for Cross-Border Cooperation in Tordesillas focused on the role of regional administrations in addressing shared territorial challenges. Officials emphasized that local governments are essential for identifying cooperation opportunities that drive economic development and improve communications.

In Badajoz, a commemorative event organized by the Federation of Municipalities and Provinces of Extremadura (Fempex) highlighted how European funds have modernized infrastructure and reduced barriers between Extremadura and neighboring Portuguese regions. During the sessions, Miguel Ángel Morales, President of the Cáceres Provincial Council, called for the completion of 72 kilometers of highway in northern Extremadura to better connect Madrid and Lisbon. He also noted efforts to establish a European Grouping of Territorial Cooperation (EGTC) with the Portuguese region of Beira Baixa to coordinate regional interests.