Midi-Pyrénées Europe

Through its size, its diversity and the richness of its cultural heritage, Midi Pyrénées has naturally a strategically place in Europe, laying at the crossroads of different geographical areas. Through its identity and way of life Midi Pyrénées is clearly to be seen as part of the “Grand Sud Ouest” but is also closely related to the Atlantic Area. This position demands that the region to establish its development in a large European frame in co-operation with neighboring regions. Midi Pyrénées doesn’t ignore its European dimension and actively takes part in two interregional cooperations the Atlantic Area and the South West European Area.

The natural, historical factors and the specificities of its development therefore, have a role in shaping the involvement of Midi Pyrénées in European actions. Appreciating the importance of the promotion of an harmonious and balanced development, Midi Pyrénées is conscious that its environmental diversity, its great potential for a quality of city life and for tourism (heritage, diversity and identity) are good assets to create new models of sustainable development in the region. Seeking in European programs the opportunities to display its strengths and develop its potential, Midi Pyrénées has a special interest for such issues as rural development, tourism, environment or culture. In these fields, Midi Pyrénées is engaged in co-operation with other regions and is currently taking part in different programs: INTERREG IIIB, Culture 2000, Leader +, actions promoting a sustainable development...

In confirmation of the region’s interest in European issues, Midi Pyrénées Europe was created in October 2001 and brings together the regional authority and 7 local authorities. The office in Brussels aims to act as an interface between the region and the EU institutions, aims to defend and promote the region’s interests and priorities. Midi Pyrénées Europe has a threefold objective:

• Inform:

obtaining in advance information on European policies, programs and funding opportunities with a special focus on the regional priorities and communicating this via our monthly Newsletter and our website.

• Provide technical assistance:

to bring expertise and help in responding to call for proposals.

• Represent, Network Midi-Pyrénées in Europe:

We also aim to be a visible point of contact for the region, to develop a network of contacts with the institutions and other regions and have an influence on key decisions when the region is concerned.

The association now includes the Midi-Pyrénées Regional Council, the General Councils of the Ariege, Gers, Lot, Hautes-Pyrenees, Tarn, Tarn et Garonne and the Urban Community of Greater Toulouse.