Cooperation with a Future Saxony-Anhalt in the International Arena Cooperation with a Future – Saxony-Anhalt in the International Arena
Cooperation with a future Saxony-Anhalt in the international arena Cooperation with a future – Saxony-Anhalt in the international arena
Table of contents
Saxony-Anhalt in the international arena 5 1. A reliable partner on the international stage 6 International partners 7 The Mazowieckie Voivodeship 7 Région Centre 10 Dear Reader, The Autonomous Region of Valencia 14 Armenia, a partner in the fields of culture and education 14 Focus on the Baltic 16 It is now twenty years since German unification gave Political and diplomatic visits 18 Responsibilities abroad 19 rise to the rebirth of Saxony-Anhalt. Our state had to contend with a difficult adjustment process. From 1991, 2. Part of a European network 22 Networks 23 the EU Structural Funds of the European Union gave Interregional cooperation 24 us a helping hand, providing some Euro 10 billion in The promotion of interregional cooperation made easy 26 funding. With hindsight, there is no doubt that our 3. Playing an active role in Brussels 28 European unity 29 joint endeavours have paid dividends. Saxony-Anhalt Policy meetings 29 is on the right track. Our many international activities The Committee of the Regions 31 have made an important contribution to this progress. The economic Members of the European Parliament 31 Representation of Saxony-Anhalt to the European Union 32 commitment of our businesses abroad and of foreign investors at home, 4. Future prospects with the backing of the European Union 34 cultural and academic exchanges with other countries, cooperation within Support from the EU 35 European networks, opportunities for schoolchildren and young people to Improving our competitive edge 36 Creating new jobs 37 meet, twinning arrangements between towns and local authorities, and the actions of societies and associations aimed at helping us and our neighbours 5. Our economy – a global presence with benefits for investors 40 Saxony-Anhalt supplies the world 41 in Europe and throughout the world to understand one another better – all Interregional business cooperation 44 are characteristic of a modern state which is receptive to the outside world: Optimum conditions for foreign investors 44 the state of Saxony-Anhalt. 6. International standards of education and research 46 School children and scientists with a world vision 47 This brochure has been designed to provide you with a brief summary of our Aware of the global picture from an early age 47 broad range of international contacts, and of the support which our state University partnerships 48 has received from the EU Structural Funds. I trust you will find it interesting An internationally recognised research landscape 52 and that it will inspire you to take advantage of these contacts and become 7. A great cultural and tourist destination 54 The art and culture of Saxony-Anhalt attracts international attention 55 part of our network of international relations. French culture in Saxony-Anhalt 57 Always worth the trip 58 Yours, 8. Seeing the world for oneself 60 Intercultural exchanges 61 International youth meetings 61 An international perspective for trainees and students 62 Rainer Robra Local authority partnerships 63 The international activities of our clubs and societies 65 Minister for European Affairs of Saxony-Anhalt And finally… 66 Addresses 66 Imprint 67
3 Cooperation with a future – Saxony-Anhalt in the international arena Cooperation with a future – Saxony-Anhalt in the international arena
Saxony-Anhalt in the international arena
The people of what is now Saxony- other countries in the fields of Anhalt have always been receptive business, science, art and culture. to outside influences. And the ideas Exchanging ideas with partners of local luminaries such as Emperor abroad, learning from one another, Otto I, Eike von Repgow, Martin representing common interests Luther, Philipp Melanchthon and Otto and improving intercultural skills: von Guericke have been influential international cooperation will be throughout extensive areas of Europe crucial for Saxony-Anhalt’s growth in across the ages. the years ahead – cooperation with Our people have been trading with a future. other parts of the continent since time The EU is helping our state to immemorial. Thus the gold contained achieve these objectives in many in the 3,600-year-old Sky Disc of different ways. Of especial importance Nebra came from northwest Romania, in this regard is the assistance we the copper from Austria and the tin, receive from the European Structural in all probability, from England or Funds. Bohemia. Creative inspiration from the region between Arendsee and The aim of this brochure is to Zeitz, Harz and Fläming, brought provide an overview of our contacts innovation to industry and design, with other countries. Many of these and had a global impact. The first can be touched upon only briefly, ever all-metal plane, designed by and the list of activities undertaken Hugo Junkers, the world’s first colour by the wide range of stakeholders film from Wolfen and the architecture involved – schools and universities, and design of the masters of the businesses and trade associations, Dessau Bauhaus are just a few cases club volunteers, politicians, justice in point. officials and administrative officers And Saxony-Anhalt has continued – is by no means exhaustive. to keep its eyes on the international Nonetheless, one thing is clear: horizon to the present day. Although Saxony-Anhalt is an international The Sky Disc of Nebra – one of the most important archaeological finds from the Bronze Age. Thanks to ERDF our state has no national borders, contender at the heart of the funding, it was possible to build the ‘Nebra Ark’, an ultramodern multimedia documentation and visitor centre, on Mittelberg Hill near Nebra, close to where the disc was discovered. it nonetheless has many links with European Union.
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International partners with our partners, the Mazowieckie Voivodeship and Région Centre. Saxony-Anhalt is receptive to the outside world. It maintains international relations with many The Mazowieckie Voivodeship regions both inside and outside Europe. These close contacts enrich With its capital in Warsaw, the cooperation on many levels and in Mazowieckie Voivodeship occupies different areas of our lives. a central position in Poland and The value of the individual regions is, in economic terms, our eastern is also recognised in the European neighbour’s most powerful region. Union – indeed, there in particular There are close ties between Saxony- – with its current membership of Anhalt and Mazovia, partly as a result 27 countries and some 500 million of our musical heritage, because inhabitants. A region is a homeland, both regions have produced great and gives its people a sense of composers: Händel, Telemann and identity. Europe will only have a Chopin. future if it is a Europe of the regions. German-Polish relations have been At the same time, cooperation a matter of great interest to both between regions within the EU will states for some time, and not just be crucial to our own development. since Poland joined the EU in 2004. By cooperating and networking As early as 2003, Saxony-Anhalt and with regions in other countries, we the Mazowieckie Voivodeship agreed can establish long-term contacts – that their regions would work closely commercial, cultural and social – from together. This regional partnership 1. A reliable partner on which our respective populations can was signed and sealed on 13 October benefit. 2003 by Minister-President Prof. Dr. This is of particular importance Wolfgang Böhmer and Adam Struzik, the international stage for regions such as Saxony-Anhalt, the Marshal of the Mazowieckie which have no borders with other Voivodeship, when the former was countries. That is why our state has on a visit to Warsaw. Since then, continued to expand its cooperation relations between the two regions with other regions in the EU in recent have continued to improve. They years. Of particular note are the two are represented at a large number partnerships with regions in Poland of joint events where they showcase and France, both neighbours of some of their cultural traditions to Germany. We have reaffirmed these the public. Experiences from various by signing cooperation agreements fields of policy are discussed at
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seminars and workshops, and new Anhalt in 2008, which celebrated contacts are made. the fifth anniversary of the regional partnership. The five-day programme CiecHanów To name just a few examples, featured a variety of cultural events, WARSAW the ‘Terra Incognita’ exhibition of such as the stage play ‘Blue Stars –
SieDlce contemporary paintings from Mazovia the Transit of Mazovia’, an exhibition was staged in Magdeburg in 2006, on Warsaw’s graphic art, and a recital Pl⁄ ock and in late 2009 the gallery of Burg by the pianist Karol Radziwonowicz; Landscape of the River Liwiec in Giebichenstein University of Art and information material was available Mazovia Radom Design in Halle (Saale) hosted the from the universities, and a business ‘Top Floor’ exhibition of posters conference was held for entrepreneurs and book graphics by teachers and from Mazovia and Saxony-Anhalt, as students of the Academy of Fine Arts well as additional workshops. in Warsaw. Saxony-Anhalt has been Youth teams from Saxony- able to participate in many activities at ¬Anhalt participated in two sports museums in Mazovia. Representatives championships in Mazovia in 2009: of its own museums were invited to a junior cycle racing team competed a conference and workshop of Polish against an international field, and a museums in 2009 on the subject of girls’ volleyball team played for the the ‘Modern Museum’. The ripple effect Mazovia Cup in Legionowo. of these events will continue to have Our partner region of Mazovia is an important impact on cooperation involved in several of Saxony-Anhalt’s Open-air museum in Radom Chopin memorial in Warsaw Castle square in Warsaw between our museums in the future. multilateral cooperation projects with There were also reciprocal visits by other regions, such as the INTERREG political representatives. In 2006, our project ‘ChemClust’, whose objective state was able to showcase itself at is to increase cooperation between the Saxony-Anhalt Festival in Warsaw, European chemical regions, and which which was attended by Minister- is being spearheaded by Saxony- Poland: Mazowieckie VOIVODESHIP President Prof. Dr. Wolfgang Böhmer Anhalt’s Ministry of Economic Affairs Area: 35,559 km2 and Dr. Reiner Haseloff, our Minister of and Labour. Inhabitants: 5.205 million Economic Affairs. Political discussions Capital: Warsaw (1.7 million inhabitants) Main rivers: Vistula, Narew were supplemented by a ‘cooperation The disastrous flooding of the Administrative structure: 37 counties and 5 urban communities exchange’ for businesspeople from Vistula in May/June 2010, when large Leading industries: Agriculture (incl. cattle farming and potato cultivation) the two regions, and a workshop parts of Mazovia found themselves Gross Domestic Product (GDP): Euro 67,631 billion (2007) promoting Saxony-Anhalt’s tourist under water, demonstrated that such GDP per inhabitant: Euro 13,100 (2007) attractions. regional partnerships are not just Unemployment rate: 9.1 % (2010) A further highpoint was the for fair-weather friends, but could Source: Eurostat Mazowieckie Festival, held in Saxony- also prove valuable in darker days.
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Mazowieckie Voivodeship
Interesting encounters, lasting memories
“Even if we did not win at the end of the day, taking part in the volleyball tournament in our partner region of Mazovia was a wonderful experience for the young sportswomen from Saxony-Anhalt. We were warmly Chartres welcomed and well looked after, were able to talk about a lot more than just sport with our Polish hosts, and met interesting people of whom we will have fond memories for a long time to come.” Blois Orléans Château de Chaumont Kristin Rumi, trainer of the girls’ volleyball team from Saxony-Anhalt Tours Bourges At short notice, Saxony-Anhalt was Anhalt have much in common: ChÂteauroux able to supply more than 200,000 historically, since they were both in sandbags and special non-woven the thick of their respective nations’ fabric to secure the dikes from development, geographically by the stockpile kept by the State virtue of the rivers Loire and Elbe Enterprise for Flood Protection and which characterise their landscapes, Water Resources Management. and economically through their Bourges Old Town This aid shipment was also made industrial structures, which are possible thanks to volunteers from centred on automotive supply and the German-Polish Society of Saxony- agriculture. Anhalt and with the assistance of The joint declaration on the Magdeburg Chamber of Trade and regional partnership between Industry. What’s more, Drömling Saxony-Anhalt and the French region nature reserve invited children from of Centre was signed on 5 July 2004
the areas of Mazovia worst affected in Magdeburg by Minister-President Château de Chambord on the Loire Centre is a first-class wine-growing region by the floods to spend a recuperative Prof. Dr. Wolfgang Böhmer and the break in Saxony-Anhalt, with the then President of the Centre region, FRANCE: Région CENTRE support of the German-Polish Youth Michel Sapin. Office and the state of Saxony- Cooperation with the regional Area: 39,151 km2 Anhalt. administration of Région Centre Inhabitants: 2.54 million Capital: Orleans (113,000 inhabitants) was stepped up in 2007 with Main river: Loire the conclusion of the ‘Framework Administrative structure: 6 departments, 1,842 communities Région Centre agreement on cooperation in the Leading industries: Trade, automobile industry, electronics industry/IT field of education’ between the Gross Domestic Product (GDP): Euro 66,044 billion (2007) The partner region Centre lies to competent educational authority GDP per inhabitant: Euro 26,100 (2007) Unemployment rate: 8.6 % (2010) the south of Paris right in the heart in Région Centre, the Académie of France. Centre and Saxony- Orléans-Tours, and the Ministry of Source: Eurostat
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He discussed the level of cooperation infrastructure as instruments for urban which had been attained and the and regional development. A series prospects for its future development of joint projects has been agreed for with Minister-President Prof. Dr. the current work programme for 2010 Wolfgang Böhmer and other state and 2011, from exchanges of ideas and representatives. The delegation from collaboration in the field of renewable the partner region also visited the energies to youth exchanges and loans Dessau-Wörlitz Garden Realm as well as from the cathedrals in Bourges and educational centres offering vocational Chartres for the state exhibition, ‘The training to first-time students. Minister Naumburg Master’ in 2011. for European Affairs Rainer Robra It has since become possible to link represented Saxony-Anhalt in May 2008 up the state’s two regional partnerships, at ‘European Week’ in Orleans. The thus enhancing their value even more. then Minister of Culture and Education, For instance, at a workshop in 2008, Prof. Dr. Jan-Hendrik Olbertz, and the representatives from Saxony-Anhalt, Minister for Regional Development Centre and Mazovia discussed the The former Minister of Culture and Education of Saxony-Anhalt, Prof. Dr. Jan-Hendrik Olbertz, the President of Région Centre, François Bonneau, the former Vice-President of Région Centre, and Transport, Dr. Karl-Heinz Daehre, possibility of collaborating in the Béatrice Arruga, and Dr. Thomas Weiss, Director of Dessau-Wörlitz Cultural Foundation (l. to r.) attended the opening of the traditional historic parks and gardens sector. on a visit to Wörlitz Park in 2008 international architectural biennial Working together can be a worthwhile Culture and Education of Saxony- ‘Nietzsche et la France’ (‘Nietzsche ‘ARCH I LAB’ in Orleans in the October exercise, for instance when it comes Anhalt. This has led, for instance, to and France’). The exhibition ‘7 – of the same year, which was curated to issues such as conservation and school and teacher exchanges and Sieben – Sept – Seven’, which featured by the Dessau Bauhaus in 2008. tourism. Mazovia and Centre have to advanced training for teachers. contemporary art from Saxony-Anhalt The exhibition illustrated the role of already promoted their regions on There are currently 20 partnerships and Centre, was held in 2008 at the the EU in the context of urbanism several occasions at the state harvest between academic schools and state’s Representation to the EU in and architecture, and highlighted festival in Magdeburg, as part of the vocational schools in Saxony-Anhalt Brussels. This exhibition provided the importance of architecture and European Village. and Région Centre. four holders of scholarships from Saxony-Anhalt Cultural Foundation Cultural exchanges are also a with an opportunity to enter into Région Centre highly valued feature of the regional dialogue with some of their French Joint project for French and German schoolchildren partnership with Centre. In 2006, for peers.
instance, the state’s Youth Symphony Reciprocal visits by politicians have “What is the difference between a French regional newspaper such as the ‘Nouvelle République’ and its Orchestra performed in the partner assisted in the implementation of the German counterpart, the ‘Mitteldeutsche Zeitung’? That is the main theme of the current exchange between children from the ‘Jacques Coeur’ grammar school in Bourges and the ‘Friedrich List’ vocational school in region. A year later, a concert by the two agreements on cooperation with Halle. Side by side, with their dictionaries in their hands, they have been studying and analysing the two daily ‘Orchestre d‘Harmonie de la Région the Centre region. The President of papers – their themes, headlines, advertising and photos. There has been much for both sides to discover. Centre’ enthused an audience of Région Centre, François Bonneau, was And a visit by the German schoolchildren to our local editorial office has taught them even more.” hundreds in Zeitz. Also in 2007, invited to Saxony-Anhalt in the spring Appeared in ‘La Nouvelle République’ on 24/10/2008 under the title, ‘French-German X-ray images’ Orleans staged an exhibition on of 2008.
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The Autonomous Region of Valencia
How EU funding helps optimise the use of biomass
“We already know our partners in Valencia from the ‘Perspective 2007-2013’ INTERREG project, where we enjoyed a good working relationship. It’s great when contacts like these can be maintained in the long term and taken a stage further. Saxony-Anhalt can benefit from such international exchanges. With financial support from the European Regional Development Fund, we have just successfully completed a project in association with the Ministry of Agriculture and the Environment on the optimisation of logistics processes in the use of biomass; institutions from Valencia made an important contribution to the project as our partners.”
Dr. Ina Ehrhardt, project leader at the Fraunhofer Institute for Factory Operation and Automation (IFF), Magdeburg
The Autonomous Region of Valencia for the extension and intensification Schoolchildren from Armenia and Saxony-Anhalt share lessons in Sevan (Armenia) of relations. In December 2009, a Joint The Autonomous Region of Valencia Declaration on cooperation between intensified over the last few years possibility of new collaborative lies on the Mediterranean coast of our state and the region of Valencia on the basis of this agreement, ventures with the Armenian Culture Spain, and is one of the Kingdom’s was signed. Among other things, it and now include cooperation in the Minister, the Minister of Education economic powerhouses. Saxony- included an agreement to cooperate fields of education and science as and Science, and rectors from a Anhalt and Valencia already have in the fields of employment policy, the well as culture. An agreement to number of universities. Three new a history of working together. The media sector, and the environment. this effect was signed in 1998. school partnerships were agreed, administrations and other institutions with the result that there are now of both regions collaborated closely Saxony-Anhalt showcased itself in seven partnerships between schools on four INTERREG projects, and Armenia, Armenia in 2004, and in 2005 an in Saxony-Anhalt and Armenia. A Saxony-Anhalt and Valencia are a partner in the fields of culture Armenian Festival was held here at teacher from Saxony-Anhalt has been currently involved in the ‘International and education a number of different locations. The working at an Armenian school Partnership Platform’ (IPP) INTERREG contemporary cultural creativity of since 2007. At the beginning of the project, which was launched early in Since February 1996, Saxony-Anhalt the Republic of the Caucasus was current school year, reinforcements 2010. Valencia is also a cooperation Ministry of Culture and Education showcased in a series of concerts, arrived in the form of an additional partner of the EU Service Agency, the has represented all the federal films, and exhibitions of graphic teacher from our state. The partner advisory service of Saxony-Anhalt German states on behalf of the art and photography, as well as schools in Saxony-Anhalt often Investment Bank, part of whose remit Standing Conference of the Ministers readings and lectures. welcome Armenian scholarship is to inform local authorities and of Education and Cultural Affairs The then Minister of Culture and schoolchildren and visiting teachers research institutes about the many vis-à-vis the cultural agreement Education, Prof. Dr. Jan-Hendrik from Armenia. possible sources of EU funding, and to concluded with the Republic of Olbertz, made several visits to In 2007, Dessau staged the liaise with potential project partners. Armenia. Bilateral contacts between the country, including one in June exhibition, ‘The Caucasus. Following Thus the groundwork already exists Saxony-Anhalt and Armenia have 2008, when he discussed the in the footsteps of Heinrich
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Theodor Wehle’, which presented in the restoration of find sites to the results of the work achieved their colleagues from the Armenian by winners of ‘Heinrich Theodor Institute of Archaeology and Wehle’ scholarships awarded by Ethnography. Saxony-Anhalt Arts Foundation. The The seal was set on academic Arts Foundation had announced cooperation in the fields of in 2006 that two Armenia-related Oriental Studies, Armenian Studies, scholarships were to be awarded German Studies and Theology in in conjunction with the ‘Foundation October 2008 when a cooperation for the Sorb People’. The focus of agreement was signed by Martin the cooperative project was the Luther University, Halle-Wittenberg, Sorb graphic artist Heinrich Theodor and the State University of Eriwan. Wehle, who was active in about 1800 MESROP, the Armenian Studies in what are now the federal states centre which opened in 1998, has of Saxony and Saxony-Anhalt, and provided the University in Halle- who was also the first European to Wittenberg and the state of Saxony- Saxony-Anhalt’s Minister of Agriculture and the Environment, Dr. Hermann Onko Aeikens (centre), travel through the Caucasus and Anhalt with an institute which is met the Lithuanian Minister of Agriculture, Kazys Starkeviius (r.), during International Green Week in Berlin in 2010 Armenia as an artist accompanying unique in Germany, offering broadly an expedition. The scholarships based research and teaching on the on issues such as an exchange of issues. A high-ranking delegation from allowed the Sorb artist Sophie subject of Armenian studies. information on questions relating to Lithuania arrived in Saxony-Anhalt in Natuschke and Florian Bielefeldt local government reform, the use of the spring of 2009 as our guests. from Halle, who specialises in EU funding and the development of During this visit, discussions were drawing, to make study trips of two Focus on the Baltic public services at local level. Latvia’s held with Saxony-Anhalt Investment months each. Regional Development Agency is a Bank on European funding policy, Stone circles discovered during For many years, Saxony-Anhalt has partner in the aforementioned IPP especially with reference to the next roadbuilding in Armenia are also maintained contacts with Latvia, a INTERREG project. funding period. attracting the scientific interest of member of the EU since 2004, through In early 2010, representatives of archaeologists from Saxony-Anhalt. bilateral and multilateral projects. As well as Latvia, the two other the Ministry of Agriculture and the They are believed to have similar It was recognised in 2008, during Baltic states – Lithuania and Estonia – Environment discussed measures astronomical significance to that reciprocal visits by politicians, that also play an important role in Saxony- aimed at tackling the effects of of Goseck solar observatory, which cooperation was sufficiently promising Anhalt’s international relations. climate change on agriculture and was uncovered in Saxony-Anhalt. to warrant being stepped up. In The Ministry of Agriculture and the other specific projects with their Experts from the State Institute November 2009, a Joint Declaration Environment has signed agreements Estonian counterparts. In addition, of Archaeology and Monument was signed in Riga between the State on cooperation in its specialist Estonia and Lithuania frequently Conservation and the State Museum Chancellery of Saxony-Anhalt and the field with the agricultural ministries attend the European Village at the of Prehistory are happily passing on Ministry for Regional Development of both countries. One particular state harvest festival in Magdeburg, the expertise they have acquired and Local Government of the Republic area of interest is the exchange of where they promote their countries during salvage excavations and of Latvia. The cooperation will centre information about topical agricultural and their agricultural produce.
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2006 and August 2010. They often with young people with management combined their visits to Saxony- potential from these countries. Both Anhalt with meetings with business sides benefit from this arrangement. representatives. On the one hand, those participating in the programme – foreigners in higher education in Saxony- Responsibilities abroad Anhalt – can acquire important practical experience, and on the Although development cooperation other, effective support is given falls largely within the remit of the to the international activities of federal government, the federal businesses, and skilled staff develop states nonetheless contribute to ties with the company concerned. support for developing countries Finally, those with management through a whole series of projects. potential might be business And Saxony-Anhalt is no different. partners of tomorrow, enabling local The Saxony-Anhalt regional centre of companies to open doors to new InWEnt - Internationale Weiterbildung foreign markets. und Entwicklung gGmbH, a non- The people of Saxony-Anhalt acquire The Chinese Ambassador S. E. Wu Hongbo visits Minister-President Prof. Dr. Wolfgang Böhmer in Saxony-Anhalt profit making organisation which an understanding of the problems of receives funding from the federal and developing countries from an early age. Political and diplomatic visits welcomed more than 30 high-ranking state governments, is an important Our schools not only teach them about foreign delegations, including one partner in this respect. In 2000, a the ‘Third World’; schoolchildren also Reciprocal visits by politicians assist in October 2006 led by Michelle development-related contact and develop skills and abilities pro-actively in the creation and growth of bilateral Bachelet, the Chilean President. The qualification programme entitled for the achievement of ‘One World’. contacts. The economic interests of possibility of cooperating in a wide ‘Partners of Tomorrow’ was created, Appropriate topics are dealt with Saxony-Anhalt are always our first range of areas was discussed on which was financed by Saxony- across a range of subjects from Year priority in this respect. Such visits all these occasions, and a suitable Anhalt Ministry of Economic Affairs 5 on. As a result, several partnerships also not uncommonly have a knock- political course set accordingly. and the Federal Ministry of Economic now exist with schools in African on effect by encouraging cooperation When diplomatic representatives Cooperation and Development. It countries, including Ethiopia, Tanzania in cultural and social areas too, as from all over the world present was designed to provide additional and Namibia. The schoolchildren learn well as in education and science. themselves to the Minister-President training for technical staff and future about life in the respective country Between June 2006 and July 2010, on their inaugural visit, the principal management staff from selected through a number of projects, and the Minister-President, ministers of concern is to extend relations developing and emerging nations. provide support for their partner the state government, and secretaries between their home country and our The project puts businesses in schools with specific aid projects. of state made a total of 71 official federal state, leading to new areas of Saxony-Anhalt which are building In the years 2007 to 2010, the state trips abroad, including those to EU cooperation. Fifty-one ambassadors relations with developing countries government provided more than Euro institutions in Brussels. During the were guests of the State Chancellery and emerging nations or wish to put 160,000 in funding for educational same period, the state government and state parliament between June these on a firmer footing, in touch work as part of its development
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policy, as well as for projects arising infection and delivery ward for from partnerships with schools in patients with primary HIV infection, developing countries. and to create improved training These state activities are facilities for nursing trainees. complemented by a variety of projects conducted by societies and Evangelical Church parishes in church groups. Saxony-Anhalt have focused most of In 2006, for instance, a grant their energies on Tanzania. There has from the state of Saxony-Anhalt been a partnership in existence since enabled a project to go ahead in 1976, since when a large number Uganda which was being organised of projects have been realised, by Caritasverband für das Bistum supplying targeted aid and support at Magdeburg e.V. (Caritas Association local level. The partnership between
for the diocese of Magdeburg). The the Paul Gerhard Foundation hospital Minister of the Interior, Holger Hövelmann (3rd from l.), received five police officers from Saxony- project was aimed at increasing in Wittenberg, a town which has Anhalt on termination of their missions in Afghanistan, Kosovo, Bosnia and Herzegovina on capacity at the rural ‘St. Lucan strong links with Martin Luther, and 1 October 2009. Katimba Health Centre’. It was the Lutheran Hospital in Lugala in of Tanzanian hospital staff, in an enable families to set up in business. possible to improve patient care the south of Tanzania, is just one effort to prevent skilled workers from The donations were channelled considerably by adding extra nursing example of this. In the ‘Employees migrating elsewhere. Neither is it into three projects; one supporting beds and medical requisites to the for Employees in Lugala’ campaign, uncommon for doctors from Saxony- smallholders, one providing financial basic equipment already available. workers in Wittenberg are donating Anhalt to spend time working in aid to women running small It was also possible to build an money to improve the low salaries Lugala. In addition, the donations businesses, and a third providing requested by Minister-President Prof. training for young people. Dr. Wolfgang Böhmer in 2006 in lieu As well as humanitarian projects of 70th birthday presents enabled an such as these, Saxony-Anhalt extension to be built to the delivery demonstrates its international ward. commitment by sending members of the police force on foreign Under the patronage of Saxony- missions. The officers volunteer for Anhalt’s Minister of Economic Affairs, deployment in support of the peace Dr. Reiner Haseloff, it was possible process and reconstruction in the to collect a total of some Euro areas concerned. Since 1996, 150 50,000 towards the end of 2009 in times police officers from Saxony- a joint campaign by ‘Opportunity Anhalt have taken part in missions International Germany’ and the under the aegis of the UN, the OSCE ‘Volksstimme’ newspaper. The money and the EU, to destinations which was made available to Ghanaians have included Kosovo, Sudan and Voluntary service in Ghana as part of the ‘Worldwards’ youth exchange programme in the form of microcredits, which Afghanistan.
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Networks as ever the driving force behind the network, whose president is Dr. Reiner ECRN, ENRICH, ENCORE, ERRIN, KIC, Haseloff, our Minister of Economic IQ-Net, jurop: the networks in which Affairs. Twenty-two regions from nine ministries, research institutes and EU states are currently members of other institutions in Saxony-Anhalt the ECRN. Small and medium-sized play an active part have many names. enterprises are able to increase their But they have one common goal: to international activities under the benefit their members and create a auspices of the network. By presenting more united Europe. a united front, the regions should be In what are now more than 50 able to secure a greater say in their networks in different areas of politics, dealings with European institutions. the economy and society, information In recent years, the ECRN has been is exchanged, best practices analysed, actively involved in debating a number and joint approaches sought which of issues at EU level. Several position will help us find solutions to the papers on European chemical policy, problems we will face in the future. emissions trading, climate protection, But networks such as these also innovation, energy policy, regional represent the common interests of development and research policy their members vis-à-vis the EU. have been approved and submitted The European Chemical Regions to crucial decision-makers. And the Network (ECRN), which was the chemical industry in Saxony-Anhalt brainchild of the state of Saxony- is one of those to benefit from this Anhalt, is a case in point. This lobbying and from the exchange of INTERREG project, launched in 2004, information within the individual 2. Part of a European network brought together chemical regions regions. from Germany and other European What’s more, the ECRN was the countries with the aim of improving first of any regional network to be the competitive edge of the chemical invited by the European Commission industry through networking and to participate in a European industry pooling their interests when it came to dialogue. Dr. Reiner Haseloff, Saxony- drawing up EU policy for the industry. Anhalt’s Minister of Economic Affairs, Their work was so successful that was able to bring the interests of the the regions continued to cooperate chemical industry in Saxony-Anhalt even after the project had officially directly to the table and help shape come to an end. This explains why European chemical industry policy the ECRN continued to survive as an in the High-level Group to Improve association. Saxony-Anhalt remains the Competitiveness of the Chemical
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from our state have been successful internationally, and in particular to in the various rounds of calls. This expand trans-European transport has further consolidated and extended networks. Saxony-Anhalt’s international links with other regions. During the period Saxony-Anhalt’s Ministry of Regional 2007 to 2013, the European Regional Development and Transport has Development Fund (ERDF) will be a stake in this project, because making a total of Euro 302 million important trans-European arterial available for interregional projects routes cross our state. That is why (INTERREG IV C) and Euro 246 million Saxony-Anhalt is taking a close interest for transnational projects in the central in the results of the feasibility studies European cooperation area (INTERREG for connections and traffic hubs in IV B). Saxony-Anhalt will also receive a the Baltic-Adriatic corridor, which are share of this EU funding. still to be completed as part of the The INTERREG IV B programme has project before it ends in January 2012. been set up to support transnational Operational concepts for new logistics cooperation projects. Saxony-Anhalt services and transport chains for such Participants at the General Assembly of the ECRN in Brussels in 2010. The president of the network is Saxony- lies within the central European sectors as the solar and wind energy Anhalt’s Minister of Economic Affairs, Dr. Reiner Haseloff (front row, 5th from r.) cooperation area. Cooperation focuses industry, the processing industry and Industry in Europe. In the spring of other national legal systems. The mainly on the promotion of innovation the timber industry, all of which are 2009, the High-Level Group presented informal system of fact-finding visits through the creation and expansion of important to Saxony-Anhalt’s economy, a series of policy recommendations. to observe the judicial authorities of scientific and technological networks, are also anticipated. An initial evaluation at European level other member states in action received improved access to transport on their possible implementation is a very positive response. and telecommunications services, INTERREG IV C has been set up scheduled for the end of 2010. a responsible approach to the to provide support for interregional environment, and sustainable regional cooperation between local and The network of European presidents Interregional cooperation and urban development. regional administrative bodies of Higher Regional Courts (OLGs) on and public institutions in Europe. issues of European criminal justice – In an age of globalisation, with its Saxony-Anhalt is currently actively Such cooperation might help, for jurop – was the brainchild of Winfried great challenges and their impact involved in 16 projects; in some cases, instance, to improve research and Schubert, President of Naumburg on the individual regions of Europe, it is even the leading partner. One development, expand the information Higher Regional Court. A shared cooperation between the latter is example is the ‘SoNorA’ project. The society, promote entrepreneurship, communication platform has been climbing up the agenda. With its acronym stands for ‘South-North Axis’. develop human resources, and established as a forum where specialist INTERREG programme, the European The aim of the initiative is to create improve environmental protection information can be exchanged. Its Union has created an opportunity to an attractive transport infrastructure and risk prevention. One of the aim is to ensure that European law support interregional and transnational and transport services in the Baltic- projects for which Saxony-Anhalt is applied more consistently, and to cooperation. Since 2000, thirty-five Adriatic development corridor and made a successful bid for funding improve its members’ familiarity with project proposals involving partners its access routes which can compete together with partners from other
24 25 Cooperation with a future – Saxony-Anhalt in the international arena Cooperation with a future – Saxony-Anhalt in the international arena
EU states, was known as RAPIDE The promotion of interregional (Regional Action Plans for Innovation cooperation made easy Development and Enterprise). Saxony- Anhalt Ministry of Economic Affairs The INTERREG programme is and Labour, together with partners designed to foster cooperation from eleven other countries, sought between regions from at least three ways of stimulating innovation EU states. The projects run over and developing new ideas for the several years and are highly complex. marketplace with the minimum of In order to facilitate even more forms delay – because it is only once of cooperation between institutions in inventions reach the market that Saxony-Anhalt and partners in other they really become profitable. The EU countries, the state government obstacles to innovation were also has prepared a special funding studied closely. At the closing event programme for the current 2007 to on 16 June 2010, the partners signed 2013 funding period. their own regional action plans, which were officially presented to the ‘Saxony-Anhalt interregional’ is representatives of the EU Commission sponsored by funds from the state who were in attendance. The results itself and from the ERDF and the Lithuanian and German participants in a training project organised by the association ‘Garden Dreams - Historic of this project ought to help increase ESF, two EU Structural Funds, and Parks in Saxony-Anhalt’ at Rosenburg Castle in the Harz mountains the currently below-average level of supports interregional projects, labour market. Since the programme countries, and develop not only innovation exhibited by companies in most of which aim to increase our was launched in 2008, nine projects intercultural skills, but also abilities Saxony-Anhalt, thereby making them state’s competitiveness and improve have been approved in which a total which will improve their chances more competitive. employment prospects in the primary of some Euro 1.72 million has been of success in the jobs market. A invested, including the ‘EU Service project organised by the association Agency’ in Saxony-Anhalt’s Investment ‘Gartenträume – historische Parks
INTERREG IV B Bank and a project sponsored by in Sachsen-Anhalt e.V.’) (Garden
International cooperation between European regions creates new perspectives the association ‘Kulturelle Kinder- Dreams - Historic Parks in Saxony- und Jugendbildung e.V.’ (Cultural Anhalt) and its partners in Lithuania Child and Youth Education) entitled, invites gardeners to receive training "The INTERREG project ‘Vital Landscapes’ increases awareness amongst stakeholders in Saxony- ‘Go Europe! – European Youth in the special care and cultivation Anhalt of the European dimension of understanding, preserving and developing cultural landscapes as an important part of our daily lives. International cooperation creates new perspectives as well as Skills Centre’, an advisory service required when it comes to tending new partnerships. In addition, learning about one another and exchanging information results in a which informs young people about the historic parks and gardens pooling of skills and resources when it comes to tackling relevant issues now and in the future. The international nature of the project makes it more acceptable to decision-makers in Saxony-Anhalt, opportunities to expand their included in Saxony-Anhalt’s ‘Garden indeed encourages decision-making, while on the other hand it also helps increase the level of know- personal horizons in other European Dreams’ tourist itinerary. how and consequently economic strength in all the regions of Europe concerned."
Frank Ribbe, authorised signatory, Landgesellschaft Saxony-Anhalt mbH
26 27 Cooperation with a future – Saxony-Anhalt in the international arena
European unity topical issues of future budgetary, cohesion and agricultural policy Saxony-Anhalt recognises the in Europe with members of the importance of European politics. European parliament. Today there is hardly a single area where European law and policy do During the German presidency not play an important role. In fact, of the Council of the European more than 70 percent of German laws Union, a joint conference was held are based either entirely or partially in Saxony-Anhalt’s Representation on EU guidelines. Many decisions to the EU in Brussels in June 2007, made at European level have a to which the state Ministers for direct influence on national law, European Affairs were invited. with repercussions for the federal Minister Rainer Robra, who was then states and local authorities and chairing the Conference of Ministers consequently for the everyday lives for European Affairs, also extended of our people. That is why the state a welcome to the President of the government is very keen to increase European Parliament, Prof. Dr. Hans- its influence on decision-making Gert Pöttering, and the President of processes and ensure that local the Committee of the Regions, Michel interests are taken into account. Delebarre.
A conference was devoted to the Policy meetings ‘European Year of Creativity and Innovation 2009’, which included Members of Saxony-Anhalt’s contributions from Saxony-Anhalt 3. Playing an active role government make regular visits to and was attended by Minister for Brussels to lobby for their state’s European Affairs, Rainer Robra. The European policy plans. Minister- minister also took advantage of in Brussels President Prof. Dr. Wolfgang Böhmer, this visit to hold discussions with for instance, travelled to the representatives of the Directorate European capital in October 2009 General for Regional Policy (DG for the autumn festival organised REGIO) and the Head of Cabinet of jointly by the Saxony-Anhalt State Commission President José Manuel Representation and the Fundación Barroso on the evaluation of the Comunidad Valenciana, not only to ‘Europe 2020’ strategy. discuss the further development of interregional cooperation with the In April 2008, the transport Valencia region, but also to address ministers of the German states met
29 Cooperation with a future – Saxony-Anhalt in the international arena Cooperation with a future – Saxony-Anhalt in the international arena
a maximum subsidy with the EU able to help people start their own Commissioner for Regional Policy, businesses, as well as successfully Johannes Hahn. cultivating the entrepreneurial spirit But equally as important as of the region. discussions at EU headquarters are the visits of high-ranking representatives of European institutions to Saxony- The Committee of the Regions Anhalt, because ‘Europe’ isn’t just to be found in Brussels. Persistent Like all the other German federal problems, along with examples of states, Saxony-Anhalt is represented Chamber of the European Parliament in Brussels Secretary of State Dr. Michael Schneider has good practice, can be illustrated in the Committee of the Regions represented Saxony-Anhalt in the Committee of in Brussels on the initiative of the more clearly ‘in the flesh’, thereby (CoR). The CoR was established in the Regions since 2002 then Chairman of the Conference of making a more lasting impression 1994 as a political assembly which Transport Ministers, Dr. Karl-Heinz on the consciousness of European gives a voice to local and regional which is intended to harmonise Daehre, in the presence of the then decision-makers. administrative bodies when measures living conditions in the EU. Thus Federal Transport Minister Wolfgang Thus in February 2008, the then and legislation are being formulated after studying the report of Secretary Tiefensee, to discuss resolutions on Energy Commissioner Andris Piebalgs by the EU. The importance of the of State Dr. Schneider, the CoR rail reform and issues relating to met Minister-President Prof. Dr. CoR was upgraded by the Treaty of unanimously adopted his position on freight traffic and logistics. Wolfgang Böhmer, Minister of Lisbon. It is able to appeal to the the future of EU cohesion policy post Economic Affairs Dr. Reiner Haseloff, European Court of Justice if acts of 2013. This makes the CoR the first Towards the end of April 2010, and industry representatives to find law by the Commission violate the EU body to present a comprehensive Minister of Finance Jens Bullerjahn out about the latest developments subsidiarity principle or restrict or overall approach to the future of this held discussions with important in the field of renewable energies infringe the Committee’s participation policy area. representatives of the European in Saxony-Anhalt. In addition, the rights. Consequently, the Committee institutions on the future of the Director General of DG REGIO, Dr. Dirk of the Regions is no longer merely an cohesion policy for Saxony-Anhalt, Ahner, attended the event entitled, advisor; it is also a ‘custodian’ of the Members of the European the development of new financial ‘20 years since the fall of the Wall other EU institutions. Parliament instruments, and the funding of – Dimensions of change – We in so-called ‘general-interest’ services. Europe’. Günter Verheugen, the Vice- The 344 members include the two In recent years, the European For a state such as Saxony-Anhalt, President and EU Commissioner for representatives of Saxony-Anhalt, Parliament’s importance as a European cohesion policy will continue Enterprise and Industry of the first the state’s envoy to the federal institution has grown by virtue of its to play an important role in the Barroso Commission, was also our government, Secretary of State Dr. increased responsibilities. It now future funding period and within guest in Saxony-Anhalt in December Michael Schneider, who is a member, ranks alongside the Commission the ‘Europe 2020’ strategy. Mr. 2009. He was shown the results of and Tilman Tögel, a member of the and the Council of Ministers as an Bullerjahn raised the necessity of the ‘ego.-PilotenNetzwerk Sachsen- state parliament who acts as his equal partner in almost all areas of ensuring that there were reasonable Anhalt’ pilot network, which was set deputy. One of the focal points of European legislation, and when it transitional arrangements in place up with support from the European their activities is their work on the comes to setting the annual budget for regions no longer receiving Social Fund (ESF), and has been future architecture of cohesion policy, of the EU.
30 31 Cooperation with a future – Saxony-Anhalt in the international arena Cooperation with a future – Saxony-Anhalt in the international arena
projects launched. It is technically a departmental section of the State Chancellery, and also has access to ministry advisors who are delegated to Brussels for relatively long periods. The state is able to participate effectively in European decision-making processes by virtue of its close contacts with representatives of EU institutions and with the Representations of other Dr. Horst Schnellhardt has been the MEP for regions within the EU. Moreover, a Saxony-Anhalt since 1994 network established by the State The European Parliament currently Representation makes it possible has 736 members. Dr. Horst to keep Saxony-Anhalt directly
Schnellhardt (CDU), who represents informed of the latest European policy Minister-President Prof. Dr. Wolfgang Böhmer and Minister for European Affairs Rainer Robra Saxony-Anhalt, is one of a total of developments from Brussels, so that welcomed guests to the Representation of Saxony-Anhalt in Brussels to mark the end of Germany’s EU presidency in 2007, an event which was organised jointly with the federal government 99 German MEPs, and has been a the state government is in the loop member of the European Parliament as early as possible and a mechanism invitation of the State Representation Berlin. We now maintain a close since 1994. Saxony-Anhalt also exists for continuous feedback. of Saxony-Anhalt. relationship with European and receives support from Constanze In October 2008, the State international contacts from the former Angela Krehl (SPD), Holger Krahmer The Representation of Saxony- Representation was the venue for the artists’ club known as ‘Die Möwe’ (The (FDP), Franziska Keller (Alliance 90/ Anhalt to the EU has often played 6th Congress of European Chemical gull). The Representation in Berlin, The Greens) and Dr. Cornelia Ernst host to functions, cultural events and Regions, which was attended by like that in Brussels, is subordinate (The Left), whose constituencies are in exhibitions promoting Saxony-Anhalt, the then Vice-President of the EU to the State Chancellery. It is headed surrounding federal states, and who as well as to specialist conferences, Commission, Günter Verheugen. by Saxony-Anhalt’s envoy to the are as a result actively involved in discussions and rounds of talks on federal government, Secretary of State protecting the interests of our state. European issues. One particular red- The State Representation is also a Dr. Michael Schneider. The federal letter day of recent years was the contact point for people from Saxony- states help to frame EU legislation closing ceremony marking the end of Anhalt and other regions with an via the upper house of the federal Representation of Saxony-Anhalt the German presidency of the Council interest in Europe. Between 2006 and parliament. It is, therefore, one of the to the European Union of the European Union in summer 2009, a total of 80 groups comprising duties of the Berlin Representation 2007, which was organised jointly with some 2,300 visitors learned more to lobby for the interests of the state The Representation of Saxony- the federal government. Some 1,200 about the work of the Representation in terms of European policy vis-à-vis Anhalt to the European Union, which guests, including representatives and the EU. the Federation. The venue is also a was established in 1992, plays a key of the EU member states, members But Brussels is not the only place good place for meetings between role when it is a question of lobbying of the European Commission, where European politics is conducted; politicians from Saxony-Anhalt and for the interests of the state before representatives of the German federal there is also the Representation of representatives of other federal important EU decisions are made or states and MEPs, responded to the Saxony-Anhalt to the Federation in states.
32 33 Cooperation with a future – Saxony-Anhalt in the international arena
Support from the EU which our state has been making since 1991. During this period, The European Union provides Saxony-Anhalt has received about many forms of support for regional Euro 10 billion in funding from the development. Saxony-Anhalt is European Structural Funds. one of the areas to benefit from the various funding programmes During the 2000 to 2006 funding which are integral to the EU’s period, Saxony-Anhalt benefited to regional policy. As far as our state is the tune of some Euro 3.5 billion, concerned, the EU Structural Funds which was fed into 65,690 projects are the most important instrument with a total volume in the region of in this respect. These comprise the Euro 12 billion. Euro 8.5 billion went European Regional Development to more than 16,000 ERDF projects, Fund (ERDF) and the European Social Euro 1.5 billion to more than 14,000 Fund (ESF). In addition, there is also ESF projects and Euro 2 billion to the European Agricultural Fund for somewhere in the region of 35,000 Rural Development (EAFRD), which projects of the EAFRD’s predecessor, was set up during the current funding EAGGF-A. Financial support was period of 2007 to 2013. Whether it given to projects from almost every is a matter of creating new jobs, area of funding – from subsidies investing across the board in our for new businesses and training state infrastructure or improving the grants, to factories costing several skills of our workforce: EU funding million Euro and environmental can be found around almost every sustainability projects. Roughly corner in Saxony-Anhalt. 24,000 new jobs were created, and 4. Future prospects 78,000 more protected. About Euro The EU Structural Funds are largely 3.4 billion is available in the current with the backing of responsible for the good progress funding period (2007 to 2013), the European Union EU funding trends in Saxony-Anhalt since 1994 Period ESF ERDF EAFRD/EAGGF
1994 - 1999 Euro 550 million Euro 1,354 million Euro 586 million
2000 - 2006 Euro 750 million Euro 1,990 million Euro 760 million
2007 - 2013 Euro 644 million Euro 1,931 million Euro 817 million
Total Euro 1,944 million Euro 5,275 million Euro 2,163 million
35 Cooperation with a future – Saxony-Anhalt in the international arena Cooperation with a future – Saxony-Anhalt in the international arena
which will go towards supporting Improving our competitive edge employment and growth in Saxony- 6 Anhalt, and improving quality of life The European Regional Development 5 4,0% and of the environment. The ERDF Fund (ERDF) is the most important 10,4% 1 25,4% and the ESF will account for Euro source of funding for Saxony-Anhalt, 2.6 billion of this total. A further and is to provide Euro 1.93 billion 4 13,6% 7,000 projects were launched by during the period 2007 to 2013. mid-2010. The ERDF is making an important
contribution to reducing disparities 3 The state supplements this funding in the level of development of 13,3% 2 with 25 % co-financing – an excellent European regions. It ensures that 33,3% investment. European regional companies invest in new plant policy and state policy can work and machinery, thus improving 1 Enhancing the attractiveness of Saxony-Anhalt as a research and development centre 2 Making companies more competitive hand in hand when it is a matter of their competitive edge. One such 3 Developing the economic infrastructure achieving sustainable development example is the Hasseröder brewery, 4 Sustainable urban development through investments in industry and which modernised its bottling plant, 5 Environmental and risk-provisioning measures 6 Technical assistance the expansion of the infrastructure, fermentation and storage tanks, lifelong learning measures, improved or the Mahnert printing works in Distribution of financial support from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) to improve com- opportunities in the jobs market, and Aschersleben, which was able to petitiveness and promote innovation projects in the environmental sector increase its efficiency considerably and for rural areas. The different by introducing new printing presses. Wolferstedt, and the new bridge over Creating new jobs funding programmes mesh together ERDF funds are also being used the Saale in Bad Dürrenberg. excellently. Regional stakeholders in Saxony-Anhalt to improve the The European Social Fund (ESF) on the ground are involved in the road network, e.g. by building the Money from the ERDF has also been represents the social face of development and implementation of Sandersleben bypass in Mansfelder used to return old buildings to their Europe, and supports employment, strategy. Land, the road between Allstedt and former glory and convert them to serve qualification and training programmes. another purpose, one example being In Saxony-Anhalt, such projects will the castle complex in Tangermünde, be receiving some Euro 644 million in European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) which is now home to a hotel whose funding between 2007 and 2013. The
From a niche market to an innovative competitor with a broad product range reputation has spread far and wide. money will be channelled into some And even the youngest members of 16,200 measures benefiting nearly our community can benefit from EU 250,000 people. This will provide “From 2001, there was increasing demand among consumers for disposable packaging. We were forced to make the move to plastic and cardboard if we wanted to continue to be successful. With the help of funding, such as the children at Kita them with an opportunity to gain funding approved by Saxony-Anhalt Investment Bank, most of which came from the European Regional Kunterbunt nursery school in Jessen, better qualifications which should Development Fund (ERDF), we are making the leap from a traditional company in a niche market to an whose old prefabricated concrete improve their chances of obtaining a innovative competitor with a broad product range.” building has been transformed into job when they enter the primary labour Claus-Christian Diers, Managing Director of Libehna Fruchtsaft GmbH, Raguhn a colourful house with a welcoming market, or to upgrade their skills. atmosphere thanks to ERDF funding. This is important for businesses in
36 37 Cooperation with a future – Saxony-Anhalt in the international arena Cooperation with a future – Saxony-Anhalt in the international arena
D E 4,0% 1,5%
C 1 18,2% A 20 32,1% 2 19 3
B 18 44,2% 5
A Increasing the flexibility and competitiveness of employees and businesses 4 B Improving human capital C Improving employment opportunities and social integration for disadvantaged persons D Technical assistance 17 E Transnational projects 6
Distribution of financial support from the European Social Fund (ESF) for employment, qualification and training programmes
Saxony-Anhalt too, because well- Another special priority is the 16 7 qualified employees represent a factor in integration of disadvantaged persons. a company’s growth whose importance For instance, a model project was should not be underestimated; ea.R- funded by the ESF in Quedlinburg 9 Energieanlagen Ramonat GmbH in which aimed to integrate disabled 8 15 14 Schönebeck, for instance, was able people into the jobs market, to train employees in specific skills demonstrably improving the chances with the help of the ESF, enabling it to of those with learning difficulties of 10 diversify into new areas of business. finding employment. 12 13 11
A small selection from the thousands of projects in Saxony-Anhalt which have received financial support from the EU European Social Fund (ESF) Structural Funds, the ERDF and EFS, in recent years: 1: Qualification of medical personnel as ‘non-physician practice assistants’ - 2: New bottling plant and storage capacity Using ESF funding to create long-term jobs for young women for the Libehna fruit juice company in Raguhn - 3: Conversion of the laboratory and research area of the Institute of Neurobiochemistry at the University of Magdeburg - 4: Additional training for staff of Energieanlagen Ramonat GmbH in Schönebeck - 5: New sandwich machine for biscuit production at Wikana Keks- und Nahrungsmittel GmbH, Wittenberg - 6: Modernisation of the Kunterbunt nursery in Jessen - 7: New machinery for the Mahnert printing works in Aschersleben - "With the help of the employment exchange and ESF funding, young women are being given an 8: New plant for Organica Feinchemie GmbH in Bitterfeld-Wolfen - 9: New knowledge transfer structures via the project opportunity to find challenging, long-term employment. Businesses in Saxony-Anhalt are, in return, ‘Gathering practical experience - business meets campus’ at the University of Halle - 10: Extending the business premises acquiring highly-qualified personnel, and ideas on how to gain a foothold in international markets." of Scil Proteins GmbH in the technology park on the weinberg campus in Halle - 11: Renovation of the estate house in Merseburg - 12: Construction of the new Nietzsche archive in Naumburg - 13: ‘Nebra Ark’ visitor centre near the site where Dr. Karin Köhli, managing director of BBI-Akademie für berufliche Bildung gGmbH the Sky Disc of Nebra was discovered - 14: Renovation of Luther’s birthplace in Eisleben - 15: Extension of the Christian nursery in Quedlinburg - 16: New computer cabinets for the vocational school in Böhnshausen - 17: Extension of Chocotec (Academy for Vocational Training) (BBI) GmbH in Wernigerode - 18: Urban renewal in Stassfurt - 19: Extension of the business premises of Feinmechanische Werkstätten (now Zorn Instruments) in Stendal - 20: Renovation of the castle complex in Tangermünde
38 39 Cooperation with a future – Saxony-Anhalt in the international arena
Saxony-Anhalt supplies the world exception of 2009, the year of the global financial crisis, foreign trade What do the World Cup stadium has experienced consistent growth. In in Cape Town, the tallest building in 2008, goods worth in excess of Euro the world in Dubai, the wedding of 12.8 billion were exported. Following the Swedish Crown Princess Victoria, the slump caused by the crisis in classes at the International School 2009, exports recovered again; from in Dubai and a cruise on the River January to July 2010, their value rose Ishim which flows through the capital by more than a billion Euro compared of Kazakhstan have in common? to the same period the previous year. Companies from Saxony-Anhalt have Our closest commercial ties are with been involved in all of them. Glasbau the states of the European Union. Gipser from Halle (Saale) installed Exports to the 27 members of the EU the glass roof of the Green Point were worth Euro 9.3 billion in 2008, Stadium, while Guardian Flachglas in or about 72 % of the total. In 2009, Bitterfeld-Wolfen supplied the glass this figure was as high as 80 %. The for the windows of the 828 m high single economic area provides ideal Burj Khalifa. The wedding chocolates conditions for economic cooperation, were created by the Halloren thanks to the clear legal framework chocolate factory in Halle (Saale), which is in place. But we also export the oldest of its kind in the world. to America, Asia, Africa and Australia. Schoolchildren in Dubai are taught on For instance, Alpha Signs GmbH from ergonomic chairs supplied by Project Hohenthurm supplied illuminated Schul- und Objekteinrichtungen advertising for the branch of a GmbH from Eisleben, and since July British car manufacturer in Australia, 5. Our economy – 2010, it has been a vessel from the and Ambulanz Mobile GmbH from Kiebitzberg shipyard which one has Schönebeck provides customised boarded for a relaxing cruise against solutions for many countries, a global presence with the backdrop of Astana. ensuring that rapid, modern medical assistance is available; since June benefits for investors These are just five examples of 2009, for instance, it has also been products from Saxony-Anhalt which supplying Peru. have impressed an international clientele. Many local companies The state and the European Union have dared to venture abroad, and encourage efforts by companies to have made a success of it with their participate in the export market within creative ideas, outstanding quality the bounds of what is permissible and competitive prices. With the under European law.
41 Cooperation with a future – Saxony-Anhalt in the international arena Cooperation with a future – Saxony-Anhalt in the international arena
European Regional Development Fund (ERDF)/Foreign trade
With EU and state support, we now have an international outlook
&MPPMSR )YVS
Growth of exports from Saxony-Anhalt since 2000
Under the leadership of the Ministry Since January 2010, Magdeburg of Economic Affairs and Labour, all the Chamber of Trade and Industry has relevant stakeholders work together also been home to the Enterprise on the Foreign Trade Advisory Board, Europe Network of Saxony- so as to develop a coordinated and Anhalt (EEN), which also provides VEM motors GmbH in Wernigerode effective policy for businesses. businesses with specific advice about the opportunities of trading “With EU and state support, the plant now has an international outlook. Through regular investment, Magdeburg and Halle-Dessau abroad and the grants available, as we are in a position to develop modern solutions for industry. Investment enables us to take a qualita- tive leap forward. While we were previously manufacturing 500 KW motors, we are now able to produce Chambers of Trade and Industry offer well as organising business trips. high-performance drives of up to 1 MW.” members who are about to venture Jürgen Sander, managing director of VEM motors GmbH Wernigerode into foreign trade a wide-ranging But it is not just our state’s larger advisory and support service through companies which are interested in their joint foreign trade development the export market; tradesmen too abroad include the Federation of into foreign markets. Between company InterCom Saxony-Anhalt can find it worth their while to look German Wholesale, Foreign Trade 2000 and 2009, fifty-nine of these GmbH. For instance, between 2006 beyond state and national borders. and Services and Saxony-Anhalt business trips were conducted by and 2009 InterCom organised Halle-Dessau and Magdeburg Chamber of Engineering. Chambers, associations and the more than 200 consultation days, Chambers of Crafts are only too EEN, the majority of which received which enabled businesses from ready to offer them advice. In addition to advisory services, financial support from the Ministry Saxony-Anhalt to find out about business trips are also very of Economic Affairs and Labour. the opportunities and regulations Other sources of information important in helping companies from Business delegations accompanied applicable to trade with sixty different which can smooth the way for Saxony-Anhalt to make contacts by politicians also travelled countries. companies with ambitions of trading which can help them dip their toe abroad.
42 43 Cooperation with a future – Saxony-Anhalt in the international arena Cooperation with a future – Saxony-Anhalt in the international arena
These business trips notwithstanding, project was led by the then district it is essential for companies which of Merseburg-Querfurt, which was Invest in Saxony-Anhalt are keen to market their products home to the central German chemical and services to showcase these at industry, and aimed to strengthen We made the right decision trade fairs, both in Germany and Saxony-Anhalt’s position as a centre further afield. of research and innovation vis-à-vis “As things have turned out, we are in no doubt that we chose the right location. Here in the region, we its international competitors, and have found highly motivated and very well trained employees who have made this success possible.” In order to give these companies a improve the cluster process in and Barbara Wittmann, first leg-up, Saxony-Anhalt provides between the regions concerned. managing director of Dell in Halle financial support from the European The emphasis was on such issues Regional Development Fund (ERDF) as creating a cooperation network for those attending trade fairs in the field of polymers and new well-trained and highly-motivated The IMG informs potential foreign abroad which are for specialist fields materials with a Europe-wide profile, workforce, as well as speedy licensing investors with whom it has established or of major importance. Such funding developing long-term technology and procedures. This was confirmed once contact, either at international enabled more than six hundred innovation transfer and new synergy again by the 2009 survey of 15,500 trade fairs and conferences or by companies to be represented at potential in the fields of marketing, companies throughout Germany, which approaching them directly, about trade fairs between 2000 and 2009. customer acquisition, specialisation was conducted by the Institute for the state’s many advantages as a The total cost to the EU was in the and cooperation, and incorporating Employment Research (IAB) in Berlin; business location. Its efforts to attract region of Euro 1.5 million. additional partners in the European Saxony-Anhalt emerged in second foreign investors, the associated Chemical Regions Network. This type place out of all the federal states. creation of jobs and the broadening of project gives companies from of the state’s industrial base are Interregional business cooperation Saxony-Anhalt an improved and DOW Chemical, Total and Euroglas partly financed by the European sustainable competitive edge. are just three of the successful Union’s ERDF. The IMG has already In addition to activities focused companies whose presence flags up opened two offices in Italy and China purely on the export trade, the excellence of Saxony-Anhalt as a as well as launching campaigns cooperation with other companies Optimum conditions for foreign place to invest. to encourage potential investors and research institutions abroad is investors to find out more about Saxony- also very important to businesses In March 2009, Saxony-Anhalt was Anhalt as part of the ‘International in Saxony-Anhalt. Such interregional If Saxony-Anhalt is to experience chosen by the US business journal Acquisition Network’ project. In partnerships make networking, economic growth, it must not only ‘Site Selection’ as its No. 1 secret 2009, this enabled the IMG to clinch exchanging information and improving encourage its businesses to expand investment tip for 2008 when it the deal in the case of twelve foreign the company’s market prospects a their foreign trade activities, but announced its ‘Global Best to Invest investment projects, including seven little easier. The Ministry of Economic also attract new investors, especially Awards’. Saxony-Anhalt’s investment relocations, four expansions and one Affairs and Labour supports this from abroad. Saxony-Anhalt is an and marketing corporation (IMG) is company takeover. The total volume type of cooperation. And it was attractive prospect for companies making every effort to boost the state’s of investment amounted to some within this context that backing was seeking a prime location, having a profile abroad, so that even more Euro 516 million. Somewhere in the provided for a project to create an well-developed infrastructure, no potential investors can experience region of a thousand permanent jobs international polymer network. The shortage of industrial sites, and a its benefits for themselves. were created.
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Schoolchildren and scientists with a And today Saxony-Anhalt is still a world vision state which places great value on good education and outstanding Saxony-Anhalt is a land of great research. Building on its traditions, researchers and inventors. It was here Saxony-Anhalt is an innovative centre in 1654 that the Magdeburg polymath of excellence for academia, whose Otto von Guericke performed his universities and research institutions famous hemisphere experiment to have an international reputation. illustrate the existence of a vacuum. This opened the door to an age of experimental physics and thereafter to Aware of the global picture from an the application of new technologies. early age Aviation pioneer Hans Grade made his first attempts at flight in the region. The best foundations for an In the town of Quedlinburg, the education as a citizen of the world foundations of modern seed breeding are laid when you are still at school. were laid more than a hundred years Schoolchildren in Saxony-Anhalt ago. In the first half of the 20th have acquired intercultural skills not century, the first colour film in the only by learning foreign languages, world was manufactured in Wolfen, but also through direct contacts with and the first synthetic rubber at the their peers in other countries. The Buna plant in Schkopau. schools in our state are well aware
6. International standards of education and research
Guest students Students learning abroad
International pupil exchanges, 2004-2009
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of the importance of this. They have programme known as COMENIUS, been highly committed in their efforts which enables them to embark upon to build relationships with foreign two-year cooperation projects with schools, and these have grown schools abroad. In 2006 to 2009, a over a number of years into vibrant total of 69 project applications were partnerships of proven value. approved. European funding was in the region of one million Euro. We were aware of 189 international school partnerships in 2006, but this The projects cover such diverse and number had increased to 328 by 2010. interesting subjects as ‘A European France is a clear front runner among comparison of young people’s ethical the countries with which schools in decisions’, ‘Arts and sciences in Saxony-¬Anhalt have entered into a Europe’, ‘Aqua vitae – the water of partnership (55 schools). But there life’, and ‘From cultural difference to are also links with eastern Europe: global agreement - Trotz kultureller with 29 schools in Poland, 19 in the Unterschiede Eins sein’. This latter Germany Countries with which universities in Saxony-Anhalt have partnership arrangements Czech Republic and 17 in Russia. This was conducted between 2008 and is in addition to contacts with schools 2010 with partner schools in the in the English-speaking world: eleven Czech Republic and Italy. The main high standards have not gone and contacts alive with their ongoing each in the USA and in Great Britain. priority was to break down prejudices unnoticed, even in other countries. exchange programmes and new These contacts range from postal and develop a tolerance of those This is apparent from the some joint projects. But the fact that our or email correspondence to shared who are ‘different’. The children were 500 partnerships to which higher universities are respected partners educational projects and reciprocal to get to know other cultures and education institutes in Saxony- throughout the world is due not visits. Between 2007 and 2009 alone, traditions and introduce their own Anhalt have signed up with their least to the investment made by 245 visits to 30 countries involving to their contemporaries. To this end, counterparts all over the world. From Saxony-Anhalt in the expansion and 3,864 schoolchildren from Saxony- personal contact with young people Canada to New Zealand, from Chile modernisation of these institutions. Anhalt received state sponsorship from the participating regions was to Japan – cooperation is as wide- During the 2000 to 2006 funding amounting to nearly Euro 700,000. also encouraged. ranging as it is diverse. It includes period, the EU provided assistance During the same period, schools student and teacher exchanges, to the tune of some Euro 140 from Saxony-Anhalt welcomed 3,758 which receive support from the EU million from the European Regional pupils from 29 countries in the course University partnerships programme known as ERASMUS, Development Fund (ERDF), which of 223 visits. These experiences project-related cooperation between was supplemented from the state leave their mark, and ensure that The two universities and five departments, institutes and faculties, budget and spent on building work, our state’s schoolchildren are better universities of applied sciences in and general partnership agreements equipment, amenities and software. equipped to face the challenges of Saxony-Anhalt, not to mention ‘Burg with university institutions abroad. the globalised world. Giebichenstein’ University of Art in All of these projects thrive on the Some Euro 119 million in ERDF Many schools in Saxony-Anhalt Halle, provide excellent conditions commitment of both teachers and funding has already been approved also take advantage of the EU for study and research. And these students, who keep the partnerships for the current funding period (2007 to
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long taste of university life. This is study in Germany, because I’m really the third year in which the project enjoying it. Halle is like my second has received support from the home now.” German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD). Since the project was It’s important to pass on positive launched, it has attracted about experiences to others. That’s why 20 school-leavers to Halle. One of Magdeburg-Stendal University of these is the South African Merushka Applied Sciences has been leading Peterson, whose smiling face could a project to establish the German- be seen all over the world in 2010 Jordanian University (GJU) in Amman on a poster promoting the benefits since 2004. They are doing so in of studying in Germany. The 19-year- collaboration with other German old attended the German School universities and with the German in Pretoria, and has been studying Academic Exchange Service. The nutritional sciences in Halle since first students were enrolled in 2006. 2009. The DAAD chose her for its The new campus, where some 5,000 campaign, ‘Study in Germany – Land young people will study based on Merushka Peterson from South Africa promotes studying in Germany of Ideas’. Merushka Peterson is very the model of German Universities of 2013) for the use of new technologies young people abroad to come and proud to be representing Germany. Applied Sciences, is currently being in the science faculty, infrastructural study in Saxony-Anhalt. For instance, “I hope I can persuade foreigners to built near the Jordanian capital. There improvements to universities, and key Martin Luther University, Halle- areas of research. These investments Wittenberg is currently cooperating mean better conditions for teaching with twenty schools in other countries and learning, improved research as part of the Support Initiative for opportunities and, consequently, German Schools Abroad and Partner a greater likelihood of developing Schools (BIDS). closer academic links with other The aim of the initiative is to recruit universities in different countries. as many as possible of the some 7,000 school-leavers per annum These favourable conditions also who graduate from the 133 German attract foreign students to Saxony- schools and from the many language Anhalt. Whilst 3,032 young people schools abroad. The incentives came to study here in 2002, this include taster days, mentors, number rose to 4,501 in 2009. Most and offers of grants. Nine of the come from China, Bulgaria, Russia, schools with which the University Poland and Vietnam. of Halle-Wittenberg has such an
The universities actively promote arrangement sent schoolchildren Minister-President Prof. Dr. Wolfgang Böhmer visiting the German-Jordanian University in Amman in themselves to encourage even more there in early June 2010 for a week- February 2009
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are presently 1,800 students on the work alongside colleagues from all university roll. Their courses will last over the world in a large number of five years, one semester of which will international networks, developing new be spent studying in Germany, and processes and innovative techniques. one completing an internship there. Some will attend Magdeburg-Stendal The European Union has also made University of Applied Sciences and this successful development possible. train with businesses in Saxony- Since 2000, more than Euro 65.1 Anhalt. million from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) has been approved for the investment An internationally recognised projects of non-university research research landscape institutions. This has enabled buildings to be modernised and Saxony-Anhalt has a highly- new technical equipment purchased, diversified and high-achieving research such as Europe’s first 7 tesla nuclear landscape. Our state is home to five spin tomograph at the Institute of IPK director Prof. Dr. Andreas Graner and Prof. Dr. Teruo Ishige, President of the National Institute of Agrobiological Sciences in Tsukuba (Japan) sign a cooperation agreement institutes of the Gottfried Wilhelm Neurobiology (IfN), which was first Leibniz Association, three Max Planck used in Magdeburg in 2004. One of the many well-respected Close cooperation with research Institutes, a Max Planck Research research institutions in Saxony- institutions abroad is the order of Centre, three Fraunhofer institutions The EU also sponsors research Anhalt is the Leibniz Institute of the day at IPK. Every year, several and two large research establishments cooperation in Europe through its Plant Genetics and Crop Plant dozen scientists come to Gatersleben of the Helmholtz Society. Whether 7th European Research Framework Research (IPK) in Gatersleben, a from other countries such as New it is a matter of up-to-the-minute Programme. By April 2009, 50 projects large, internationally important Zealand, India or Argentina, conduct environmental issues, engineering, from Saxony-Anhalt had been given centre for plant research. The research and work together with economic or ethnological problems, the green light for funding, 22 of which Institute’s work is centred not their colleagues from Saxony- neurobiology, plant research, the were proposed by universities, 19 by only on pure research, but also Anhalt. These researchers from mechanics of materials, logistics non-university research institutions on the search for new discoveries the four corners of the globe find systems, microstructural physics, and and nine by businesses. To and technologies relating to the excellent conditions for their work in silicon photovoltaics, or how to maximise the benefits of this EU comprehensive use of plant genetic Gatersleben. And the European Union treat neurodegenerative diseases programme, the Ministry of Culture resources. The Central German Gene plays no small part in this. Funding such as Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s, and Education has created special Bank, with its unique collection of totalling some Euro 7 million from these research institutions enjoy an posts at the Universities of Halle- plant genetic resources comprising the European Regional Development outstanding reputation abroad as well Wittenberg and Magdeburg providing some 2,700 botanic varieties and Fund (ERDF), for instance, helped as at home. advice and project management roughly 800 species, enjoys a pay for a new glasshouse complex So it is little wonder that researchers support for applicants. It is hoped to worldwide reputation. The total for the genome centre as well as a from Saxony-Anhalt are much sought extend this facility to the Universities collection currently comprises some communication centre. after as cooperation partners. They of Applied Sciences too. 147,000 plant samples.
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The art and culture of Saxony- Anhalt for these musical events Anhalt attracts international has long since become a cherished attention tradition. They fill our state with music, but also with the babble Apart from language and ethnicity, of voices from every corner of the it is cultural differences which globe. The festivals attract not only largely distinguish countries from amateur music-lovers and tourists, one another. But this very diversity but are also particularly appealing has its own charm. And if peoples to musicologists. The music festivals are to connect with one another, can always offer their international then this should begin with a audiences something new or mutual appreciation of each other’s rediscovered, or different styles of culture. That is why one of the interpretation. overriding objectives of the state’s international cultural activities is New generations of music-lovers to highlight more than ever the are also coming of age. Evidence of part which the cultural potential of this is provided every year by the Saxony-Anhalt plays in European traditional International Children’s culture as a whole. In this respect, Choral Festival in Halle (Saale), music is a universal language, where children’s choirs from many establishing a connection which different countries put their abilities transcends national and cultural to the test. boundaries. Great composers who still have their followers and Choirs, orchestras and other aficionados today, were born and ensembles from Saxony-Anhalt are 7. A great cultural and spent their working years in the also touring abroad, drawing the region now known as Saxony- attention of a world audience to our Anhalt, and this is reflected in state’s culture, both traditional and tourist destination the international festivals which modern. Thus in the early summer of are held here every year. Those 2010, the multinational ballet troupe dedicated to Händel in Halle from Magdeburg Theatre attracted (Saale), Telemann in Magdeburg, an audience of 40,000 when it Kurt Weill in Dessau-Rosslau, appeared at the International Ballet Fasch in Zerbst, Heinrich Schütz in Festival in Cali, Columbia. And in Weissenfels and Bach in Köthen all January 2010, a concert tour by attract enthusiastic audiences from Wernigerode Radio Youth Choir Germany and beyond. included a guest performance in the Inviting the world to Saxony- Italian region of Piedmont.
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being typical of their region. What success in the world market is the began in 2007 as a training scheme German-Russian co-production ‘The for art and music teachers from the Last Station’, about the final months Mazowieckie Voivodeship (Poland), in the life of the writer Leo Tolstoy, Plovdiv (Bulgaria) and Saxony-Anhalt for which both leading actors – Helen and with rehearsals, continuing in Mirren and Christopher Plummer – 2008 with the opening concert in the were nominated for Golden Globe Francke Foundations in Halle and an and Oscar awards. A big hit at the exhibition in Magdeburg, culminated 2010 Cannes Film Festival was in 2009 in a concert tour by the the German-French co-production ‘Eurora’ European Youth Orchestra ‘Carlos the Jackal’, a film which and a travelling exhibition entitled was also largely made in Saxony- ‘Crosspoints’ in Sochaczew (Poland), Anhalt’s ‘media town’ of Halle. Other Plovdiv (Bulgaria) and Brussels international films are currently in (Belgium). Audiences totalling 950 pre-production, with filming due to attended the concerts, and the commence in Saxony-Anhalt in the travelling exhibition attracted some very near future. 4,000 visitors at its various venues.
Media and film also contribute French culture in Saxony-Anhalt to our state’s rich culture. Thanks
An artwork produced for the ‘Crosspoints’ cultural project to financial support from Saxony- An employee of the French Foreign Anhalt’s state coffers, this is a highly- Ministry works in the Palais am The state’s Arts Foundation A unique cultural project called developed industry, concentrated in Fürstenwall, the residence of Saxony- regularly awards grants which enable ‘Crosspoints’ has brought together the area around Halle. There are Anhalt’s Minister-President? Believe it artists from Saxony-Anhalt to acquire young people from Poland, Bulgaria now international networks to which or not, this has been the case since experience abroad on working visits and Germany. What is meant by businesses in the creative industry 2003. An agreement with the State to locations such as New York, ‘crosspoints’ are encounters between can belong. Industry gatherings, Chancellery means that an employee Shanghai, Paris or Istanbul. These children, adolescents and adults especially those organised to is delegated to Saxony-Anhalt by the grants were established to nurture of different nationalities on the arrange film co-productions, as well French embassy to strengthen the the most promising artists and allow one hand, and points of contact as training events which attract cultural ties between France and our them to access networks within the between music, dance and painting participants from all over Europe, state. This has led to many events international art world. It is hoped on the other. Those taking part in help to strengthen these ties. being initiated and realised in recent that familiarising themselves with the project have become acquainted Mitteldeutsche Medienförderung years, with backing from the state different artistic trends and practices with selected artistic works from GmbH, of which Saxony-Anhalt is a government, which have helped will feed into their work as artists, different regions of Europe, and have partner, also helps fund international familiarise the people of Saxony- and provide inspiration for Saxony- experimented personally with pieces co-productions. One example of a film Anhalt with French culture and the Anhalt’s arts scene. of music which have been chosen as from Saxony-Anhalt which achieved French way of life. One notable
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example is the travelling exhibition Quedlinburg with their exquisite by the French artist Colette Deblé, treasures, staging posts in the whose works inspired by historic history of mankind, such as the female figures from Saxony-Anhalt’s place where the Sky Disc of Nebra past were exhibited in eight of the was discovered, the Reformation state’s cities in 2009/2010. trails in Eisleben and Wittenberg, and the Dessau Bauhaus – the list The French ‘Franko.Folie’ festival just goes on and on. has almost become a tradition now in Magdeburg, with its more These attractions also bring many than seventy different events, from visitors to our state from abroad. concerts and readings to drama, wine- Most come from the Netherlands, tastings, films, lectures and classes Denmark, Poland or the USA. on the language of French cuisine. Saxony-Anhalt uses European Union The same is true of the ‘Nouveaux funds to offer them – like all our Auteurs’ festival of contemporary other guests – an improving level theatre in Halle (Saale), which also of service, thus helping to heighten receives financial assistance from the appeal of our tourist attractions
the commissioner for German-French in the long term. Pilgrims following the Luther Trail should be sure not to miss Luther’s House in Wittenberg. The Re- cultural affairs and the state of For instance, visitors are now former Martin Luther lived and worked here from 1508 until his death in 1546. Two rooms have been preserved in their original condition. Saxony-Anhalt. drawn all year round to the Europa- Rosarium in Sangerhausen, the largest rose collection in the world, in 2017. Year after year, the sites cultural landscapes. The ERDF has Always worth the trip which was given an impressive new connected with the Reformation once again come up with financial second entrance area with a bistro and the work of Martin Luther are support to upgrade the tourist Saxony-Anhalt has no shortage of and souvenir shop in 2003, thanks a magnet for tourists from Germany trail. Additional funding has been tourist attractions. The picturesque to funding from the European and abroad. The 410 km Luther channelled into the development landscapes in the Altmark, the Regional Development Fund (ERDF) Trail invites visitors to embark of barrier-free attractions and into Harz Mountains, and the vineyards and additional sponsorship from the on a pilgrimage through unique spiritual tourism. bordering the rivers Saale and state and national governments. Unstrut, the historic half-timbered towns of Quedlinburg and Many tourist attractions in the Wernigerode, the living witnesses region are centred around the of garden architecture such as the towns of Wittenberg and Eisleben Dessau-Wörlitz Garden Realm and with their Luther associations, the other members of the ‘Garden appropriately enough in this ‘Luther Dreams’ scheme, the cathedrals Decade’ in the run-up to the 500th in Halberstadt, Naumburg and anniversary of the Reformation
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Intercultural exchanges the outside world for their own benefit, are especially receptive to Intercultural exchanges are both this. International youth meetings are necessary and practical in a a tried, tested and uncomplicated way globalised world where borders of meeting young people from other between nations – particularly in countries. Such meetings are organised the European Union – connect rather by a whole series of organisations than divide us. involved in youth work, both in Saxony-Anhalt and abroad. Projects of this kind are also supported by the International youth meetings state government. In 2009 alone, 24 bilateral and multilateral international Getting to know one another, and youth meetings were sponsored, finding out about the cultural traditions benefiting a total of more than 1,000 of other countries and peoples, are young participants. essential if we are all to get on with one another and make the most of our One of the largest of these events time abroad. The younger generation, is Saxony-Anhalt’s ‘Eurocamp’, who can utilise the opportunities organised by Auslandsgesellschaft afforded by more openness towards Sachsen-Anhalt e. V. (the state’s
8. Seeing the world for oneself
Minister-President Prof. Dr. Wolfgang Böhmer in discussion with participants at the 19th Eurocamp of the state of Saxony-Anhalt in August 2009 in Peseckendorf
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to spend individual semesters abroad, with financial support from International youth work the European Union. Hundreds of Prepared for today’s globalised world students take advantage of this
opportunity every year. “Collaboration between private-sector bodies organising international youth meetings and representatives of the state government in the EXCHANgE working group enables them to coordinate their activities and Saxony-Anhalt’s Leonardo agency, target improvements in international youth work in Saxony-Anhalt. Meeting their peers at home and abroad enables our young people to expand their horizons, and learn and experience new outlooks on which is based at Otto von Guericke life, in short: they acquire intercultural skills. This prepares the younger generation for the globalised University in Magdeburg, helps world of today, and helps increase Saxony-Anhalt’s openness to the outside world.” students and graduates from all Torsten Boek, AG EXCHANgE at Landesvereinigung Kulturelle Kinder- und Jugendbildung Sachsen-Anhalt e.V. the state’s universities and colleges (Association for Cultural Child and Youth Education, Saxony-Anhalt) to identify and prepare for work Participants in the ‘azubi-europa’ project, which gave experience placements in other EU young trainees from Saxony-Anhalt the opportunity to acquire experience in central and eastern Europe, with international society), which brings An international perspective for countries. As a member of the ‘LeoNET’ sponsorship from the ESF together more than 70 young people trainees and students network, it has links with more than from about 30 European countries 150 Leonardo agencies in Europe, document as evidence that they in different locations, where they Students and young people on and therefore has plenty of contacts are on work experience. Since the can discuss topical issues and leave vocational training programmes with companies and establishments programme was launched in October an enduring legacy in the host town are offered a great opportunity to where such placements can be 2005, more than 2,200 Europasses through their joint work projects. complete parts of their education completed. Between June 2006 and have been distributed to trainees in abroad by the EU’s ‘Lifelong Learning’ May 2010, nearly 750 students and Saxony-Anhalt. Every summer, the ‘Eurocamp for programme. This enables them graduates were able to begin their Kids’ in KIEZ Güntersberge welcomes to expand their horizons, acquire work experience in another country. between 240 and 280 children and new skills, and make international The EU devoted a total of more than Local authority partnerships adolescents from twenty countries contacts, as well as improving their Euro 1.7 million to the projects. in Europe, Asia, Africa and America. prospects in the jobs market, because The Leonardo partial programme Encouraging people to get to know During games, excursions and in an age when the world of business also enables vocational trainees to one another regardless of national discussions, they share their thoughts, is thinking more and more globally, build on their knowledge during a and cultural boundaries is the best hopes and expectations in our world employees with experience of living work experience placement in another way of achieving understanding of today. abroad are generally welcomed with EU country. Chambers of Trade and and tolerance towards strangers. The ExCHANgE working group open arms. Industry and Chambers of Crafts in The town twinning movement was is an umbrella organisation for Saxony-Anhalt, as well as a number established after the Second World societies involved in international Saxony-Anhalt’s higher education of associations and institutions, can War to serve this very purpose. It youth work. It coordinates activities institutions have established advise them on the opportunities applied an international scale to with representatives of the state partnerships with their counterparts in available, help them to find suitable the idea of direct contact between government agencies responsible many EU states within the framework placements, and even conduct some ordinary people, thus ensuring that for promoting international youth of the partial programme known as relevant projects themselves. The understanding and reconciliation meetings. Erasmus. This enables students trainees receive a ‘Europass Mobility’ were achievable.
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cultural idiosyncrasies. Friendships The international activities of our as fact-finding trips to Krakow and can lead to joint projects, and can clubs and societies information stands during Europe even accelerate the prosperity of Week and Saxony-Anhalt Day. The local authorities and of the economy. The international activities of German-Polish Society of Saxony- As well as direct encounters being administrations, companies and Anhalt was also largely responsible local citizens, for instance during interest groups are of course for the success of German- youth exchanges or reciprocal visits, important. But an understanding of Polish Year in 2005/2006 and the new contacts are made, and one’s other cultures and nations will only Mazowieckie Festival in November knowledge about one’s partner is have a long-term future if ordinary 2008. It is also actively involved enhanced. Relations between the men and women are also involved. in the state’s regional partnership administrations, institutions and In Saxony-Anhalt there are many with the Mazowieckie Voivodeship societies of one partner and those of clubs with committed memberships and the town twinning arrangement the other are also valuable when it who dedicate themselves to peaceful between Magdeburg and Radom. comes to swapping past experiences coexistence, friendship, and mutually As a representative of the Society’s and problem-solving. beneficial exchanges with other work, its chairman Krzysztof Blau countries. They consolidate pre- was awarded the Badge of Honour of Lord Mayor Dr. Lutz Trümper (r.) and his counterpart Saxony-Anhalt encourages such existing links and establish new Saxony-Anhalt by Minister-President Prof. Dr. Evgen Kartashov set the seal on the Magdeburg - long-term activities within the context contacts, largely on a voluntary Prof. Dr. Wolfgang Böhmer. Zaporozhye (Ukraine) town twinning arrangement of town twinning arrangements. For basis. As European integration has instance, the partners Semoy in increased, so the number of local France and Brehna (Sandersdorf- Our bilateral friendship societies authority partnerships in Europe has Brehna) have been exchanging stage lectures, rounds of talks, film grown in leaps and bounds. Towns delegations of local people and evenings, exhibitions and much and local authorities in Saxony- specialists for some years, so that more, thus increasing our knowledge Anhalt are among those which have there is not only a meeting of minds of other countries and, as a result, been fostering close and active on a cultural level, but also dialogue making a great contribution to the ties with their foreign counterparts, on a number of more technical receptiveness of Saxony-Anhalt sometimes for decades past. There issues. to new ideas. The German-Polish are now more than 130 partnerships In a special ceremony in 2007, Society is an excellent example of in 26 different countries, from the the town of Bernburg celebrated what bilateral friendship societies USA to China and from Finland to 40 years of its very active twinning can achieve. It was founded in 1998 Israel. There are 41 town twinning arrangement with Fourmies in with the aim of developing better arrangements with France alone, and France. Minister for European Affairs understanding between Germany 27 with Poland. Rainer Robra took the opportunity and Poland, and helping the people to award the Badge of Honour of of Saxony-Anhalt to find out more Town twinning arrangements Saxony-Anhalt to Christa Enge, about their Polish neighbour. Many
provide an opportunity to learn whose dedication has greatly served projects have been organised in Krzysztof Blau, Chairman of the German- about one another’s social and this partnership. recent years with this in mind, such Polish Society of Saxony-Anhalt
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And finally... the growing international profile Imprint of Saxony-Anhalt. However, you There is simply not enough will find additional information, Published by: Photos: room in this brochure to list all of examples, summaries and statistics State Chancellery - State Chancellery of Saxony-Anhalt Saxony-Anhalt’s many international on the internet. You will also be able Dept. Section of - Saxony-Anhalt Ministry of Economic Affairs and contacts, activities and networks; to learn more about the ERDF and International Cooperation Labour otherwise, it would have turned into ESF European Structural Funds, and Hegelstrasse 42 - Ministry of the Interior of Saxony-Anhalt D-39104 Magdeburg - Saxony-Anhalt Ministry of Culture and Education a very thick book indeed! Similarly, the European policy of the state of - EU administrative authority, Uwe Ahlert, Grit Gröbel, we have been unable to name Saxony-Anhalt. Edited by: Stefanie Härtel, Sascha Zeidler, Petra Zeiler all of the individual institutions, State Chancellery - Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Lithuania associations, clubs and businesses So why not pay us a visit? - Marshal’s Office of the Mazowieckie Voivodeship whose commitment contributes to www.europa.sachsen-anhalt.de Design and layout: - Région Centre: Florence Delong, Eric Mangeat, agentur frische ideen GmbH Melanie Jeschke, Christophe Mouton - European Parliament Printed by: - Magdeburg, the state capital Druckerei Mahnert GmbH, - Saxony-Anhalt Institute of Archaeology and Aschersleben Monument Conservation, Juraj Lipták - Nebra Ark, Jan Bitter Rev.: - isw Gesellschaft für wissenschaftliche Beratung und October 2010 Dienstleistung mbH - Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant You can contact us at the addresses listed below with your comments and Research (IPK), Gatersleben questions about the state’s international contacts, our European policy, and - Verein Gartenträume – historische Parks in Sachsen- the EU Structural Funds: Anhalt e.V. (Garden Dreams Association – Historic Parks in Saxony-Anhalt), Felicitas Remmert State Chancellery of Saxony-Anhalt Interministerial Office for Management of the - Wittenberg Information Office Departmental Section of EU Structural Funds - Luther Memorials Foundation in Saxony-Anhalt, International Cooperation EU Administrative Authority Michaela Georgius, Michael Hall Hegelstrasse 42 Editharing 40 - VEM Motors GmbH Wernigerode D-39104 Magdeburg D-39108 Magdeburg Phone: +49-391-567 6568 Email: [email protected] - AG ExCHANgE Email: [email protected] - City of Naumburg (Saale), Felix Müller Representation of Saxony-Anhalt to the EU - Scil Proteins Production GmbH Halle State Chancellery of Saxony-Anhalt Boulevard Saint Michel 80 - Zorn-Instruments Stendal EU Affairs Section B-1040 Brüssel Hegelstrasse 42 Phone: +32-2-27410931 D-39104 Magdeburg Email: Phone: +49-391-567 6695 [email protected] This brochure was published as part of public relations work of the state government of Saxony- Email: [email protected] Anhalt. It may not be used for canvassing purposes by either parties or election workers during an election campaign. Misuse includes in particular distribution at election events or party information stands, or the insertion, imprinting or affixing of political information or promotional material. Neither may the brochure be used in such a way as to convey the impression that the state government is partisan towards individual groups, even at times when no election is imminent.
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