Italy and Switzerland launch cross-border cooperation initiatives

New strategic projects are being launched to enhance cooperation between Italy and Switzerland in the border regions of Varese, Como, and Canton Ticino.

The SMILE project (Strategia per la Mobilità Leggera) aims to improve sustainable mobility for commuters, students, and tourists. By focusing on light mobility, such as walking, cycling, and intermodal transport, the initiative seeks to reduce traffic congestion on major road arteries between the two countries. The project involves the Province of Varese, the Province of Como, the Canton of Ticino, and various local municipalities.

Simultaneously, the Interreg Forum Insubria 2050 project is addressing the future of the labor market and professional training in the Insubria area. Scheduled for discussion in Varese, the forum brings together researchers, institutions, and unions to analyze development scenarios and necessary skills for the cross-border workforce. This initiative is co-financed by the European Union, Italy, and the Swiss Confederation to strengthen multi-level governance and data exchange between the two nations.