Iberian cross-border regional development

Efforts to promote regional development and cross-border cooperation in the Iberian Peninsula have focused on infrastructure, industrial growth, and tourism.

In late September 2026, the Foro Impulsa del Suroeste Ibérico met in Cáceres to discuss development strategies for Southwest Iberia. The meeting brought together representatives from government, business, and academia to address connectivity through rail, road, air, and digital infrastructure. Experts noted that physical connections must be supported by industrial growth and talent retention to be effective. The initiative seeks to build alliances between Spain and Portugal, specifically targeting regions such as Extremadura, Andalusia, Alentejo, and Algarve.

By early October 2026, focus expanded to the tourism sector through the second World Congress of Inland Tourism in Guarda, Portugal. This event emphasized how tourism can drive economic and social development in low-density inland regions through sustainability and innovation. The congress highlighted cross-border cooperation, specifically between Castelo Branco and Cáceres. Additionally, the XVIII International Tourism Congress in Vigo addressed digital transformation and the creation of joint tourism products within the Euroregion, focusing on ties between Galicia and Northern Portugal.