news region magazinE of the institute of the regions of europe • 44 / APRIL 2017

6th Green City Conference in Banja Luka Future decisions must be based on principle of sustainability

8 Panel discussion 10 Regional 12 WB6-Meeting on Catalonia: elections: in Sarajevo: Centralism means less In Graz, Northern Meeting of Western democracy Ireland and Germany Prime Ministers

FOCUS 6 Conference Green and Sustainable Mobility

Ulrike Lunacek

Green Vice-President of the

Innovations, Potentials, Strategies and Best-Pratice Examples in Banja Luka:

60 years after Rome - a new EU vision Lunacek © Office MEP

Sixty years ago the representatives of six nations came together in Rome after The challenges of our time are global and too big to be tackled by only small the wounds of two world wars to place everything on one card: Instead of con- states individually. Based on this, we have to ask ourselves how much internal European Cities of Tomorrow frontation, they pursued a peaceful coexistence based on economic interests. differentiation of the EU is possible, for it to not fall apart, or even how much The aim was to create a political community by gradually integrating the differentiation is necessary for the Union to not disintegrate completely. European societies. The experience since that moment has shown, however “More Europe”, however, only applies to us where the EU is able to serve its citi- that economic integration alone does not naturally form a political union. It are Green: zens in a more efficient way than the national, regional and municipal level. We requires building a community that feels connected by a common destiny and do not want a EU, which dictates every single detail. Public services and local a common sense of unity, a “we-feeling”. self-administration must still be designed on the spot. Since the time of globa- “The ones in Brussels!” – This undifferentiated complaint is well known in Aus- lization and digitalization, almost all areas of life are and will be characterized How to become a Green City? tria! EU-Brussels is still „foreign“ to many Austrians, although we are all toge- by common European or international agreements, but subsidiary should not ther part of the EU. Although we like to describe ourselves as the country at the become an excuse for the unwillingness to compromise with other countries in heart of Europe, Europe has unfortunately not yet arrived in the hearts of all Europe and the world. Our Europe benefits from the lively, open and democratic Austrian citizens. It is mainly due the fact that the EU is still seen as an issue and disputes in the parliaments and society about the best political concepts. We Sixth Conference on “Green and Sustainable Mobility” not as a key to coping with the current crises. Certainly, there is also a legiti- strive for European decisions based on European debates. We advocate Euro- mate criticism of “the EU” – some of it might be true, but surely not everything. pean democracy in which every European, men or women, influences, partici- pates politically and shapes outcomes. Therefore, we want to reduce unneces- The Instituite of the Regions of Europe (IRE) has or- Since its early days, the discourse on “smart and Hence, there is no time for nostalgia after the first meeting in Rome sixty years sarily high obstacles of democratic participation. ganised its 6th conference on “Green & Sustainable green cities” has included environmental sustain- ago. Now is the moment to open a new chapter of European history: The EU Mobility” on 29th March 2017 in Banja Luka (BiH), ability as one of its core principles. Today, the ma- has to become an effective and multi-layered democracy. It is necessary for its Undoubtly, the meaning of regions and cities for Europe cannot be overesti- whicht took place in the National Assembly of the jority of Europe’s population lives in cities, which implementation to have a new European Convention with broad participation mated and vice versa. More than 60 percent of EU legislation and regulations Republic of Srpska, one of the two entities of Bosnia- need to adapt to urban population growth, the ef- of various political levels in Europe and, above all, civil society. After all, just as affect the municipal level of responsibility, which shows how closely municipal, -Herzegovina. In previous years the IRE organized fects of emissions as well as climate change. Green 60 years ago, a vision is driving us again: a new treaty for a social, democratic, regional and European policies are interlinked. Hence, Europe and the EU take international conferences on this topic in Ljubljana and smart concepts must be defined and put into ecological and sustainable EU. place in every community in many different ways, regardless of their size. At the (SI), Tübingen (DE), Vienna (AT), Wrocław (PL) and practice to guarantee a bright future for future gen- same time, cities, municipalities and regions are growth engines and serve as Nedeljko Čubrilović, Despite all crises, the EU is still the most ambitious project of the European centers of general interest. Trieste (IT), which showes the interconnectedness President of the Nati- peoples. On a continent with a bloody history, the EU is a symbol of peace and and cooperation of various cities on municipial as onal Assembly of the unprecedented cooperation between European citizens. These achievements, I have started with the memory of the founding of the EU 60 years ago. The well as regional levels across Europe. www Republic of Srpska, BiH however, cannot disguise the crises that threaten the social, economic and de- quotation from Jean Monnet, one of the founding fathers, recalls the situation mocratic strength of the EU. The Member States are not able to find uniform, of the EU today: “Europe will be forged in crises, and will be the sum of the so- practicable as well as solitary solutions. The stubborn insistence on austerity lutions adopted for those crises.” For me this is a call to all of us to work for the measures and on the non-distribution of refugees poisoned the unity of the largest possible EU sum, now more than ever. A common and solidarity union community, deepened injustice, caused rapid growth of unemployment and cannot be built with national egoism. The bicycle principle applies to the EU: undermined the promise of common prosperity and solidarity. For this reason Either pedaling or falling. 60 years after Rome, we all have to pedal for the EU, in the EU celebrations took place in Rome in mid-March to show that Europe is order for Europe not to fall or standstill, but to continue its ride. still our home and to confirm that we will defend it against the new nationalist, chauvinist movements and their slogans.

You can find us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/institut.ire

In Bnja Luka Franz Schausberger had constructive meetings with the President of the Republika Srpska, Milorad Dodik IMPRESSUM Media owner and publisher: Institute of the Regions of Europe, A-5020 , Nonntaler Hauptstraße 58, Tel.: +43/662/843288-0, Fax: +43/662/843288- (photo left), as well as with the Minister of Economic Relations and Regional Cooperation, Zlatan Klokić, and Assistant 5050, www.institut-ire.eu, [email protected] • Editor and layout: printmedia & pmverlag, 5020 Salzburg • Photos: ire, Neumayr / MMV, Tonka / Wikipedia, Wikipedia, Paul Gruber • Photo Cover: ire • Print: druck.at, A2544 Leobersdorf Minister for European Integration, Radmila Dragišić (photo right), and with the Minister of Transport and Communica- Insofar as this publication features only personal designations in their gender-specific forms, they relate – insofar as this can be considered with regard to the content – to men and women on equal terms. tions, Nedjo Trninić. 2 newsregion 44 / april17 newsregion 44 / april17 3 FOCUS 6 Conference Green and Sustainable Mobility

From left: Drago Gverić, Director Innovation Centre Banja Luka, Georg-Friedrich Koppen, Head of Mobility Section, Department of Urban Development Planning, from Munich, Elena Marchigiani, Professor of the Faculty of Civil Engi- neering and Architecture, Univer- sity of Trieste and Saša Pavić, Head of Access Network Planning and Construction Sector at m:tel.

www erations. Communities, towns, municipalities and re- To define infrastructural projects means defining gional states will remain major actors in investing in the future of the city. This will boost the economy, efficiency, renewable energy and green zones. Cities strengthen the community and help in intercon- need to focus on technological improvements and necting with our neighboring countries, explained economically viable reforms and strategies to foster Nedeljko Čubrilović, President of the National As- sustainability, said Franz Schausberger, Chairman sembly of the Republic of Srpska. of the IRE and Special Advisor to Commissioner Jo- “Today we speak not only about Banja Luka but hannes Hahn, at the opening of the conference. He about all cities which develop towards a green and also drew attention to the fact, that only an overall sustainable city” stated Igor Radojičić, Mayor of strategy fulfills the requirements for a funding from Banja Luka. Banja Luka is a city which is known for the EU Investment Fond. its green avenues and trees which persisted over 100 years. On the other hand, the city deals with Mayor Igor problems such as the flooding in 2014, waste man- Radojičić stressed agement, Co2 emissions and traffic problems. These that Banja Luka problems are mainly based on cost factors, which cannot bear all the city cannot bear and hence, relies on the EU costs alone and To define infrastructural model, added Mayor Igor Radojičić. hence relies on the EU model. projects means defining “We have chosen the European way“ said Nataša the future of the city. This Kostić, Deputy Minister of Transport and Commu- will boost the economy, nications of the Republic of Srpska, “and therefore strengthen the community sustainable mobility and life quality should be at the “ centre.” Matt Field, Head of Political Section, Del- and help in interconnecting egation of the EU to BiH and Special with our neighboring Representative in Sarajevo, highlighted the impor- countries. tance of promoting local spaces, friendly and secure transport for people. The main goal is to guarantee Nedeljko Čubrilović a secure, sustainable and environmentally transport President of the National Assembly of the in urban and rural areas. It is conceivable to reduce Republic of Srpska emissions and pollutions because with modern Nataša Kostić, www Deputy Minister of Transport and Communications of the Republic of Srpska

From left: Advisor to the President of the National Assembly RS Siniša Bundalo, IRE-Chairman Franz Schausberger and Head of the representation office of Republika Srpska in Mladen Flilipović

4 newsregion 44 / april17 newsregion 44 / april17 5 FOCUS FOCUS 6 Conference Green and Sustainable Mobility Info & Partners

Komercijalna banka from traditional to digital: Banja Luka is a city which is known for its green avenues, Continuity in business with modernisation of services on the other hand, the city deals with problems such as by Alexander Picker, President of the Executive Board “the flooding in 2014, waste management, Co­­ emissions Komercijalna banka AD Beograd is one of the oldest institutions in 2 the Serbian financial market. It can be proud of 46 years of continu- and traffic problems. ing business operations. It is the second largest bank in the market with the total capital of EUR 484 million and with capital adequacy Igor Radojičić, Mayor of Banja Luka of 26,97%, which is well above the regulatory limit prescribed by the National Bank of Serbia (12%). Best-Practice examples from Vienna by Pamela In the course of 2016 the amount of savings deposits with Komer- Mühlmann (right) and cijalna banka has increased by EUR 21 million and has now reached www Ljubljana by Matjaž EUR 1,6 billion, thus making the Bank an absolute record holder Vrčko (left) were technology transport does not longer need to pro- strategies into a city might be tricky, because every with respect to foreign currency savings deposits in the market. A presented at the press duce green house gases. city is unique and the focus should be layed on in- confidence, that not only the customers, but also the other citizens conference. dividual concepts. Georg-Friedrich Koppen, Head in Serbia have in Komercijalna banka, is additionally substantiated Best-practice examples from Munich, Vienna and Deputy Minister of of Mobility Section, Department of Urban Develop- by the results of the latest financial omnibus survey conducted by Ljubljana were presented by the experts to a large Transport Nataša ment Planning from Munich explained, that the city the agency IPSOS, according to which Komercijalna banka, as seen audience during the following panel discussions. In the last year Komercijalna banka successfully commenced the Kostić (second from of Munich has worked for more than 50 years to by all the participants, is the best bank in Serbia and the best bank Matjaž Vrčko from the Slovenian Ministry of Infra- products and services digitisation process. The entire society relies left) reaffirmed the gradually implement mobility strategies. For other for potential clients. structure reported on the evaluation strategies and on the internet, electronic and digital business operations and it intentions to work cities it is quite difficult to catch up with such a long financial plans, which are necessary for the progress. The sales network of Komercijalna banka in Serbia consists of 204 would be a huge mistake on the part of the banks not to think in on a sustainable history. Additionally, Elena Marchigiani, Professor Not only the costs to build motorways but also its branch offices and 269 ATMs. Through its subsidiaries, Komercijal- that direction. infrastructure, while of the Faculty of Civil Engineering and Architecture, maintenance needs to be taken into account. Im- na banka Banja Luka and Komercijalna banka Budva, the Bank ope- IRE-chairman Franz University of Trieste in Italy, emphasized that the Besides further digitisation of products, this year in Komercijalna proving local transportation, railroads, motorways, rates in the markets of Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro. Schausberger (second whole transportation system with all its aspects and banka should also be the year of privatisation. The privatisation parking spots and reducing commuter traffic are as- from right) informed connections (miles, parking needs, car-sharing etc.) advisor has been selected and the shareholders will decide which pects which require smart administration. about the financial needs to be considered despite some geographical model of privatisation is best to apply. support of the The Komercijalna Banka a.d. Beograd offers to pro- obstacles. Trieste is surrounded by hills and moun- We, in the management team, have the task to solidify the Bank‘s European Investment vide an ecology concept for better business to raise tains from one side, and the sea from the other side foundations, to establish a clear and reliable development plan Fund. awareness for green cities, explained CEO Alexander but still has a very good functioning bicycle system and make the Bank a desirable „prey‘‘ for potential buyers. The ob- Picker. It is important to know what kind of funding thanks to e-bikes. jective is not only to raise the value of the Bank before the sale, but it needed and for what purpose. The Komercijalna Such sustainable strategies need a flawless coopera- to enhance its quality and by doing so its value, as well, in the long Banka signed a contract with the EU for 10 million tion on local and regional level in order to capture run, regardless of whether and when it will be sold. The goal is to Euros, where they cover 80% to finance credits for more possibilities. Slaviša Sandić, Head of Depart- make it a bank that the buyers will fight over and will be willing to green projects. ment Traffic and Roads of the City of Banja Luka invest even at a price higher than the market one, once they have The concept of the city of Vienna puts the main focus wants to work closely with the regional level to solve been convinced of how strong and perspective it is. on the civil society, life quality, innovation and tech- the infrastructure issues and create a link to the nical development which results in a metastrategy. western transit, which will also benefit the economy. Digitisation of banking services “Every further project is build on that metastragedy”, All the reforms and new strategies will serve not explained Pamela Mühlmann from Tina Vienna, the only the city’s infrastructure but will also ensure a Komercijalna banka has started the process of digitisation upon nic services that are easy to use and do not require an extensive Smart City Agency of Vienna. Citizens want a decent positive competition on European level for Bosnia- analysing all relevant and available technologies in the field of education in information technology. The service of sending the life, which Vienna can also guarantee in a “smart” way Herzegovina. “You carry out the reforms for yourself, finance, assessing the potentiality, conducting a research of do- cash, KOMeKEŠ, is used via mBank application and the recipient of and therefore, was named world’s top city for quality not for the EU”, said Franz Schausberger closing the mestic market and mapping the business processes, which the as- money is only expected to have a mobile phone. The second ser- of life in 2017 for the eighth year running. conference. sumptions that the process originated from refer to. The strategy vice, digital Visa card KOMePAY that is based on HCE technology, However, it is not that simple. To implement those of Komercijalna banka with regard to digitisation is now clear and is also used in the context of mBank application and it allows all completed by a number of carefully selected objectives, both in- contactless payments via mobile phone, without having to carry ternal and those client-oriented . the wallet.

In the coming period, the Bank will be focused on several of these The position of Komercijalna banka pertaining to digitisation in objectives: dynamic development of the use of mobile telephony the area of banking services, which will become increasingly deve- to pay for goods and services, expansion in the development and loped, is not a passive one but rather a position of the leader. Such functionalities of e-commerce service that the Bank provides, au- position is selected because of responsibility to a large number of tomation of internal business processes in order to expedite and clients and their needs. enhance the quality of operations and comprehensive develop- ment of digital channels for communication with clients.

Already accessible to Bank‘s customers are two modern electro-

6 newsnewsregionregion 44 43 / / april17 dec16 newsregion 44 / april17 7 FOCUS FOCUS HallwangPanel discussion on Catalonia Panel discussion on Catalonia

European Capitals of Culture 2017

The cities Aarhus (Denmark) and Pafos (Cyprus) were appointed cultural capitals for the year 2017. European Capital of Culture is a title which is awarded annually since 1985 by the European Union. In 2004, the title was awarded to two cities for the first time. Throughout the year, many cultural events take place in the European Capitals of Culture. The appointment is supposed to point out the richness, the diversity and the si- milarities of the cultural heritage in Europe and to enable a better mutual understanding of the European people. This event, which is financially sup- ported by the EU, presents special cultural aspects of the city, the region or the country to the European public. from left: Michael Geistlinger, Marina Falcó, Franz Schausberger, The region Midtjylland along with the 18 municipalities supports the pro- Lukas Mandl, Adam Casals, Jordi Jaria Manzano ject Aarhus 2017. Politically and culturally, it is the most significant project in Denmark for the past decades. It represents a unique possibility to invest into Aarhus and the region. Aarhus 2017 means participation. The project is the result of a process, in which more than 10,000 people from the whole region Panel discussion on Catalonia: have already taken part.

The motto Let’s Rethink illustrates that Aarhus 2017 will transform the regi- on Midtjylland into a cultural laboratory, in which alternative solutions can Centralism means less democracy flourish. Aarhus is Denmark’s second-biggest city, the economic centre of Jutland and home to a diverse industry.

Pafos is a seaport city in the South West of the Republic of Cyprus. After Nikosia, Limassol and Larnaka, Pafos is In the past 10 years a lively movement has evolved „The separation and formation of new states in Eu- the fourth-biggest urban area of Cyprus with 51,300 in- in Catalonia, expressing its dissatisfaction with the rope is certainly not a specific feature of the 21st habitants (31st December 2004). The city itself has about growing centralism in Spain. Citizens go onto the century. 27,500 inhabitants. It is located in the Greek-speaking streets and express their resentment over the Spa- However, the increasing globalization, internatio- part of the island. The most important sight of Pafos is the nish central government. The charges against the nalization and anonymisation makes citizen increa- medieval castellet directly at the harbour as well as the President of the Catalan Assembly, Carme Forcadell, singly feel more related to their regional origins and antique ruins. The ruins of numerous temples and places since she had allowed a discussion on independence traditions.” Therefore, strong regions are needed, of sacrifice prove that Pafos has been a place of pilgrima- in Parliament, was one of many events that antago- which form a counter-pole to internationalization ge for almost 900 years. At the same places, the Bronze Age goddess Astarte, nized the Catalans further more against the central and globalization. The aim of the IRE is strong self- the Greek Aphrodite and the Christian Virgin Mary have been and are wor- government in Madrid. The central government governing regions, which remain within the country. shipped. Apart from the ruins of the public buildings, the floor mosaics are does no longer act in the interest of its citizens in Only when the dialogue is denied from the national especially worth visiting. The kings’ graves belong to the most interesting Above: Counsellor of Catalonia, says Marina Falcó, Director General for level and centralism is enforced onto regions the archaeological excavations. They are part of the UNESCO world heritage. Spanish Embassy in Foreign Affairs of the Catalan Government in Barce- desire for self-determination and separation arises. Austria Jorge Urbiola lona. This is not a democratic approach and leaves http://www.aarhus2017.dk/de/ Lopez de Montenegro the citizens frustrated. Member of the Lower Austrian Parliament Lukas http://www.pafos2017.eu/?lang=en Mandl moderated the event and noted that the The Spanish Autonomous Community of Catalonia identity of the Catalans is very strong and the ina- Below: Member of the federal structure of Austria and Germany, with its is currently positioning itself in Europe. Politicians dequate recognition of the Autonomous Communi- Lower Austrian Par- strong federal states, is still a rare structure in Euro- and scientists have discussed the current situation ty of Catalonia in the Spanish constitution causes an liament Lukas Mandl pe. Nation states should strengthen its regions by of Catalonia in Spain and the EU during the panel even greater drive for independence. Additionally, a moderated the event. redistributing competences and granting more au- discussion „Centralism means less democracy on the public discussion on independence in the Catalan tonomy. IRE is sponsored example of Catalonia“ on 2 March 2017 organized Parliament has serious legal consequences, such as by the Institute of the Regions of Europe (IRE) in col- Public international law is blind to the political sys- in the case of Mrs. Forcadell. laboration with the Representation of the Govern- tem of a state, said Michael Geistlinger, Professor “We are looking for alternatives and a balanced sys- ment of Catalonia in Austria and the Lower Austrian at the . When demonstrations tem of regions like in the federal system of Austria”, by Association of Academics. take place on a regular basis and citizens go onto said Adam Casals, envoy and head of the representa- the streets raising their voice with independence pa- “The discussion is not about promoting separatism, tion of the government of Catalonia in Austria. The Ca- roles, then this is grassroots democracy in its original but about federalism and strong regional autonomy”, talan representation office in Vienna opened in June form and represents the right to self-determination stressed Franz Schausberger. The exchange of diffe- 2015 and already maintains contacts abroad. Accor- of a people. rent views is important, where every argument can ding to Casals, Austria is a very important location for and must be expressed openly. Professor of the University of Rovira i Virgili de Tarra- Catalonia in order to establish connections with other gona Jordi Jaria Manzano added that the territorial regions in Central and South-Eastern Europe.

8 newsregion 44 / april17 newsregion 44 / april17 9 Regional elections u u u Regional elections u u u Regional elections u u u Regional elections u u u Regional elections u u u

German election year 2017:

Christian Democrats win elections in Saarland

The German state of Saarland has elected a new government on 26 March 2017. It is the start of the big German election year 2017 Mayor Siegfried with state elections in Schleswig-Holstein (7 May), Nordrhein- Nagl from the Aus- DUP-Leader Westfalen (14 May) and the German federal elections taking place trian People´s Party Arlene Forster Annegret Kramp- in September this year. (ÖVP) won in Graz. (left) Karrenbauer The Christian Democrats (CDU) won the state parliamentary elec- tion in Saarland, which is an important step for the federal elec- tions later this year. According to the official result, Angela Merkel‘s The turnout was at 69, 7 percent, 8 percent higher than in the last CDU won 40.7 per cent - an increase of over five percentage points elections 2012 (61, 6 percent). Graz election 2017: Northern Ireland in the midst of Brexit: compared to the elections five years ago. Thus, Minister President Source: http://www.spiegel.de/ of Saarland Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer will continue to govern https://www.tagesschau.de Difficult coalition negotiations are over No Coalition, No Progress the state. http://www.zeit.de

The Social-Democrats (SPD) could not profit from the popularity City council elections took place in Graz (Austria) on 5 February About 1.2 million citizens were called to the polls in Northern Ire- of its new chancellor candidate Martin Schulz achieving only 29.6 2017. The clear winner is mayor Siegfried Nagl from the Austrian land on 2 March 2017. A government crisis necessitated a new percent of the votes. The Left party accounts for 12.9 percent. The People´s Party (ÖVP). election in the British part of Northern Ireland. The electoral par- AfD (Alternative for Germany) completes the 51-member state ticipation was at 65 percent, the highest since the Northern Irish According to the official results, the ÖVP got 37.79 percent of the parliament by reaching 6.2 percent. The Greens have only achie- elections after the 1998 peace agreement. The Catholic-Republi- votes, the KPÖ (Communist Party) 20.3 percent and the FPÖ (Free- ved 4.0 per cent and will no longer be part of the Landtag. The can Party Sinn Féin (SF) has lost votes to the coalition partner De- dom Party) 15.9 percent. The SPÖ (Social Democratic Party) lost Liberals (FDP) clearly failed with 3.3 percent and the Pirate Party mocratic Unionist Party (DUP). The DUP came to 28 seats, Sinn Féin heavily, achieving only 10.5 percent; the Greens have also recor- fell to under one percent. to 27 seats in the parliament. ded a minus of 1.6 per cent. The NEOS gained 3.9 per cent and thus enters the city council, while the Pirates failed by achieving only The trigger of this crisis was the dispute over an unsuccessful ener- 1.09 per cent. The final result is a bitter pill to swallow for the SPÖ: gy promotion program. they have lost two seats in the council to the KPÖ and are out of During the election campaign, both parties had a sharp blow ex- the government. The ÖVP gains three more seats; the FPÖ and the change. DUP-leader Arlene Forster suggested a conciliatory tone: Green Party both get one additional seat. In total, the ÖVP will be “Let us now proceed with hope, the faith that courtesy can return Technology of represented in the municipal council with 19 seats, the KPÖ with to our politics.“ ten. The FPÖ gets eight seats, the Greens and the SPÖ five seats tomorrow: each and the NEOS one seat. The turnout was at 57 percent and After the narrow electoral victory of the Democratic Unionist Party has increased slightly compared to the 2012 election, but is the (DUP), Northern Ireland has faced a challenging government for- second lowest turnout compared to the five previous elections. mation, which has failed even before the expiry of the deadline. Northern Ireland might face new elections for the third time within TODAY Mayor Nagl has agreed to a coalition with the right-wing FPÖ, even one year or London might even take over direct control. though he was critical of the different viewpoints on issues such as education and integration. Source: www.derstandard.at “Fibre Optics are the www.tagesschau.de Source: http://orf.at/stories/2378311/2378310 www.spiegel.de data highway of the derstandard.at/2000052137030/Die-Grazer-Gemeinderatswahl-in-drei-Grafiken www.diepresse.com http://diepresse.com/home/innenpolitik/5166025/Graz_Nagl-will-auf-Rot-und- www.bbc.com future” Gruen-zugehen# http://steiermark.orf.at/news/stories/2824069/ EXPERIENCE: Our team has 15 years experience in design and construction of fiber optic networks and is very familiar with the current technologies of cable laying. CEO Hans-Peter Wilhelmer, MBA

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10 newsregion 44 / april17 newsregion 44 / april17 11 FOCUS FOCUS Western Balkans Committee of the Regions

WB6-Meeting in Sarajevo: First CoR plenary session in 2017: Western Balkans Prime Ministers Further reforms of the European agree to create Common Market asylum system

The Summit of Western Balkan Prime Ministers was stern Balkans in preparation of the Western Balkans Six The 121st plenary session of the Committee of the 62 billion Euros to combat the causes of migration. hosted in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, on 16th Mar- Summit that will take place in July in Trieste. Regions (CoR) took place on 8-9 February 2017 in An opinion on the reform of the common European ch 2017. The EU Commissioner and his Brussels. The discussion focused on a partnership asylum system was rejected by both Salzburg repre- The EU Commission along with the Regional Coopera- special advisor Franz Schausberger attended the Sum- framework with other third-countries regarding mi- sentatives, because it contained claims which are tion Council proposes a Common Market for the Western mit with the heads of governments of Serbia, , gration. The reform of the common European asylum considerably weaker than the regulations in Austria. Balkans. The ambition is to remove barriers and create a Kosovo, Montenegro, the Former Yugoslav Republic of system and the second round of reforms as well as Other demands contradicted the principle of subsi- single space for economic development. Integrating the Macedonia and the host Bosnia-Herzegovina. They dis- the EU resettlement framework were discussed. CoR diarity and touched core competencies of the Mem- Western Balkans Common Market into the EU’s Internal cussed a number of joint projects to be funded by the Member Franz Schausberger and State Parliament ber States and would prove to be unsuitable. Market is a longer-term aim. Hahn made clear that this EU as well as the creation of a common market to help President of Salzburg Brigitta Pallauf participated in proposition is an essential part of the EU integration ob- Other topics during the plenary session included the reduce tensions and promote cooperation. the discussions. jective. Trade integration is a step towards the EU, not an current events in Romania, the forthcoming elec- Johannes Hahn, Commissioner for European Neigh- alternative to membership. “The European Union currently focuses on the in- tions in France, the “Brexit“ and the EU‘s investment bourhood Policy and Enlargement Negotiations, atten- volvement of the countries of origin and, as Austria has campaign in regions as well as cities for smart and State Parliament The six Prime Ministers of Western Balkans reaffirmed ded public events and meetings with political represen- repeatedly called for, in supporting the third-coun- sustainable development. Furthermore, a new Eu- President of Salzburg their commitments to take stock of progress and set out tatives. At the summit, the Commissioner discussed with tries on migration issues,“ highlighted Franz Schaus- ropean consensus on the development policy was Brigitta Pallauf and preparations for the next summit in Trieste. The heads of leaders economic and political perspectives for the We- berger during the debate. One outstanding example discussed. The adopted CoR opinions will be trans- Franz Schausberger state promised to remain fully committed to the EU ac- is the EU humanitarian aid to Syrian refugees with a mitted to the after the plen- cession perspective, which is where their common free total budget of around six billion Euros. Schausber- ary session. and prosperous future lies. ger also supports the proposal for the establishment Source: Landeskorrespondenz Salzburg, 9. Feb. 2017 The ‘Berlin process’ and the Western Balkan Six initiative of an investment fund for third-countries of up to have already driven increased and deepened regional cooperation. Regular ministerial meetings have provi- ded focus and impetus to their reform efforts, in particu- lar in relation to the Connectivity Agenda. Furthermore, topics such as the agenda for youth, migration, the fight against terrorisms and radicalization, anti-corruption and the engagement of all the actors within the ‘Berlin process’ were debated during the meeting.

Source: Press release of the Delegation of the European Union in Fly to Salzburg! Bosnia-Herzegovina, 15-16 March 2017 Your airport in the heart of the Alps

Biketour in Mitterberg; © Faistauer Photography Zell am See; Kaprun Tourismus GmbH On the sidelines of the summit Franz Schausberger met the Prime Minister of Albania Edi Rama (photo left) and the salzburg-airport.com Mayor of the IRE member Distrikt Brčko, Siniša Milić (photo right). They all agreed that despite the numerous big pro- blems in the Western Balkan countries significant progress towards the European Union can be stated. Schausberger underlined the necessity of involving regions and cities into the EU process from the very beginning.

air_Anz_IC_SO5_170x120_JUN16_def.indd 1 13.06.16 11:22 12 newsregion 44 / april17 newsregion 44 / april17 13 FOCUS FOCUS Committee of the Regions Members & Cooperations

Franz Schausberger in the CoR on compliance with the principle of the rule of law:

From left: Chairman of the South Tyrolean People’s party of Pustertal Region Meinhard Infringement of the rule of law must Durnwalder; Former governor of Southern Tyrol Luis Durnwalder; Former governor of have (financial) consequences Land Salzburg Franz Schausberger; MEP . The chairman of the South Tyrolean People’s Party Philipp Achammer was also present. The European Committee of the Regions (CoR) has administration. adopted a resolution on the rule of law in the EU from However, if national governments violate the rule of a local and regional perspective at its meeting on 23 law, regions and cities should not be punished for March 2017. The CoR expressed its concern that the this by suspending EU funding. In case regional and IRE Chairman Schausberger spoke at the convention of the South Tyrolean People‘s Party rule of law, which is a cornerstone of democracy, has local authorities do violate the rule of law, they need been increasingly challenged in recent years in the to face the same consequences. EU and throughout the world by serious political Franz Schausberger developments. The EU must therefore be endowed Franz Schausberger, representative of the State of Europe remains a peace project – (right) und Valter Flego with a more effective mechanism for preserving Salzburg in the CoR and IRE Chairman, pointed out (left), President of the democracy, the rule of law and fundamental rights, that strict adherence to the principle of the rule of Croatian Region Istria which should apply to all levels of government and law should be respected not only in the EU candi- now more than ever at the CoR date countries. This also applies to EU Member States which, even after their accession to the EU, have to respect the fundamental rights. This is obviously not Europe must remain above all a peace project, today more than necessary to actively engage in competition with various global clear in countries where there have been internal po- ever. Even though many people think that peace in Europe is self- players. litical changes in recent years. evident, it must always be actively fought for, said Franz Schaus- Strong regional identities are the precondition for the creation of berger in his speech to the South Tyrolean People’s Party in Brun- Schausberger stressed that almost 100,000 local and a European identity. The regions are the centres of security, orien- eck on the 11 March 2017. The united Europe has been a great regional authorities in the EU bear a large part of the tation, direct participation, and thus direct democracy. On this ba- success story regarding peace since 1945. The South Tyroleans responsibility for the implementation of fundamen- sis, the common Europe can be further sustained: strong Europe in particular appreciate the unity, the omission of the boarders tal rights and freedoms, therefore, they have a great (where necessary), reduced national states and solid regions. Sub- between Italy and Austria as well as the introduction of the same responsibility. It is gratifying to note that the Com- sequently, that would probably be the concept for 21st century currency because of their tormented history. missioner for Enlargement and European Neigh- Europe. However, it could also turn out quite differently but maybe bourhood Policy Johannes Hahn is paying particular At the beginning of the 21st century we unfortunately observe the not peacefully. Let’s hope that the middle path, where sanity and attention to strengthening and equipping regional consequences of increasing nationalism, the financial and econo- peace prevail, will be achieved, concluded Franz Schausberger. and local levels in the enlargement countries. mic crisis, refugee problems and terrorism, which replace the real idea of Europe. Sorrows, lack of courage, anxiety, lack of vision and historical ignorance are belittling the project called Europe. The opinion that peace is self-evident and war no longer a threat, is High-profile expert at the headquarters of the Volksbank Salzburg: wrong and deceptive, warned Schausberger. Former Governor of Lower Austria The more prosperous we are, the easier it is to lose the awareness Erwin Pröll becomes IRE Patron of the importance of a united Europe. Pessimism arises in the midst Monetary policy at its limit – of prosperity. Europe is not the crazy idea of some European and The IRE is delighted to announce that the Former Governor of the Euro-fanatic people or naive dreamers; it is a question of existence Austrian State Lower Austria Dr. Erwin Pröll officially supports the and a serious matter of reason. IRE by joining the Board of Patrons. The Board of patrons consists is fiscal policy taking over? of high-profile European personalities from politics and science, Certainly, the European Union does not function perfectly in all who support the activities of the IRE and foster the ideas, visions Jan Holthusen, Chief Analyst of DZ BANK in Frank- areas and this is on many Member States. Therefore, reforms un- and European principles of peace, solidarity and subsidiarity. der the slogan “Less, but better and more efficient” are necessary. Erwin Pröll was born into a wine-growing family. He studied at the furt reported on his forecasts for the Economy and Wherever the EU is not yet in a position to guarantee European University of Natural Resources and Capital Markets 2017 solutions, like with the refugee crisis, member states need to find Life Science in Vienna. Prior to his their own ways. Schausberger pointed out, that a united Europe doctorate, he became member of can only continue existing if European, national and regional po- Dr. Jan Holthusen claims in his thesis that the worldwide expan- the Euro in relation to the dollar could somehow stabilize again; the Austrian Farmers Union – part wers are equally balanced on the basis of the subsidiary principle. sive monetary policy will come to an end in 2017. Facing the grow- when it comes to the stock market he predicts potential given a of the Austrian People‘s Party – in European centralism needs to be rejected just as much as national ing populist tendencies, a renaissance of fiscal policy is probable – volatile development. The analyst gave his audience suggestions 1972, where he soon became eco- centralism. with an uncertain outcome. The economic policy of Donald Trump, and recommendations for their business and personal financial nomic advisor. He started his politi- the Brexit negotiations and numerous political tendencies in Eu- dispositions. In other words, Europe needs to be even more regionalized. The cal career in the town council. At the rope are included in the framework for his economic and capital Interesting discussions about the current economic situation as aim must be to achieve a „Europe with strong regions“, with clear age of 33 he was already elected to market forecasts. Jan Holthusen also explained his forecast for well as development forecasts in the financial world took place af- responsibilities and institutional and legally secure participation as the Lower Austrian regional govern- interest rates, the most important currencies and resources as well ter a Q&A session with the audience and during the get-together well as participation rights of the regions and municipalities in the ment. Since 1992, he has been the as the stock markets. According to Jan Holthusen, the position of afterwards. European bodies. The united Europe is a global alliance, which is state´s governor and party´s chairman. 14 newsregion 44 / april17 newsregion 44 / april17 15 FOCUS Conferences & Meetings

Schausberger at the Europe- Forum in Rzeszów, PL: Ukraine needs a regional reform

After the decentralization reform has been communal units. Additionally, the muni- implemented at local level in the Ukraine it cipalities have been empowered by the is necessary to set up a regionalization re- financial decentralization programme to form for the highly centralized country receive about 60 percent of the income tax from left: Marcin Swiecicki, a member of as well as an Autonomy reform for the collected in the area. For the first time in the Polish Parliament, former mayor of Eastern regions of Lugansk and Donetsk, the history of the Ukraine, municipalities Warsaw, former minister of International as defined in the Minsk Agreement, said have financial means to strengthen their Economic Cooperation, Franz Schaus- Chairman of the Institute of European Re- own economic development. These quick berger, and Stepan Barna, head of the gions (IRE) Franz Schausberger at a confe- successful results were not even suspected regional administration Ternopil (UA). rence in the Polish border town of Rzeszów by experts. As Schausberger emphasized, the EU fully on 28 January 2017. The Europe – Ukraine The decentralization process must con- supports the independence, sovereignty, Forum is one of the key events organized tinue at local level by strengthening the unity and territorial integrity of the Uk- by the Institute for Eastern Studies with self-management of the regions, said raine. However, the EU also supports the headquarters in Warsaw. The main theme Schausberger. All regional presidents implementation of the Minsk Agreement, of the 10th Forum is the modernization should in future be elected by the regio- which provides for the introduction of a and the development of Ukraine‘s potenti- nal assemblies and not be appointed by special Autonomy Status for the Eastern- They have nerves of steel: al along with the direction and pace of the the President of the Ukraine. Numerous Ukrainian regions of Lugansk and Do- The APG line teams need reforms. to keep balance. successful models can be seen in the EU netsk. This is the only way to ensure that With the local reform 1,744 municipalities Member States, such as the Polish regiona- the territorial integrity is maintained in the Credit: Karl Michalski were voluntarily merged into 366 new lization model. Ukraine.

Meeting with Foreign Affairs Minister of BiH

The balancing act of electricity supply – During a meeting of Foreign Minister of and the strengthening of the regional and Bosnia-Herzegovina Igor Crnadak (l.) with local administrations have been discussed. Austrian Power Grid (APG) must strengthen grid Franz Schausberger on 25 january 2017 in It was agreed that, above all, the repre- Vienna issues such as the implementation sentatives of the cantonal and local levels of the reform agenda, integration of the should be involved more into the EU acces- The European electricity supply is undergoing a transition. The construction of many additional wind and municipal level to the EU accession pro- sion process as EU policies must be broad- photovoltaic power plants calls for increased efforts in order to maintain the necessary balance between cess, recent events in the Republika Srpska ly supported by the subnational levels. electricity generation and consumption at all times.

At the interface between science and practice The balance of generation and consumption APG invests in a secure electricity future Strategic The IRE works regularly with scientific institu- Electricity supply is based on a fundamental physical principle that Wind and photovoltaic power require an electricity grid that can tions to incorporate expertise and new research is very simple: every single second, precisely as much electricity handle even great power fluctuations. “The restructuring of our results into current conference topics and pro- must be generated as is being consumed at that moment. The rea- electricity supply towards renewable energy sources requires huge jects. A close exchange of expertise takes place Partner son for this is that electricity cannot be stored at will. If the balance investments in our electricity grid,“ says Baumgartner-Gabitzer. “In in particular with the Salzburg University of Ap- is disrupted, large-scale outages can occur. the next ten years, we will invest over 100 million euros annually plied Sciences. On 21 February 2017 IRE Chair- to improve our facilities. This is the only way to maintain the high “Maintaining the balance every single second between generation man Prof. Dr. Franz Schausberger, the principal standard of the Austrian electricity supply.“ of the IRE and consumption is the core task of Austrian Power Grid,“ explains of the Salzburg University of Applied Sciences Dr. Ulrike Baumgartner-Gabitzer, CEO of APG. “What may appear Prof. Mag. Dr. Gerhard Blechinger (photo) and One very central project is the Salzburg line. Over 600 million eu- simple becomes a daily balancing act due to the current changes IRE Board Member Dr. Bernd Petrisch met at the ros are flowing into this project alone. Investments in the national in the European electricity sector: The higher the share of electri- IRE to intensify the existing cooperation and to electricity grid are important investments in the future and an im- city generated from wind power as part of the overall supply, the develop future projects. In previous years, the Salzburg University of Applied portant impulse for the national economy. Around 80 percent of greater the fluctuations that the electricity grid has to balance out. Sciences has actively participated at IRE conferences on topics such as tourism the invested funds benefit the Austrian economy. This also means that grid operators such as APG have to intervene and „smart building“. At this year‘s 13th Conference of European Regions and more frequently.“ You can find further information at Cities (24.9. – 26.9.2017) the University of Applied Sciences Salzburg wants to www.apg.at contribute to the discussions on „start-ups“ and „education”.

16 newsregion 44 / april17 newsregion 44 / april17 17 FOCUS FOCUS members, friends & supporters Our regions are our identity and consequently New Members the backbone of the European project. Supporting them has to be one IRE welcomes new members of our top priorities! TRASYS Group The companies of the TRASYS Group – ELIN Motoren GmbH and TRAKTIONSSYSTEME Austria GmbH – develop and produce ro- tating electrical machines, i.e. motors and generators, in the mid power range and smaller quantities. The Group supplies mainly international customers from the machine and plant construc- tion, power generation, mining and tunnel engineering and rol- ling stock industries. TRASYS has production and sales locations in Austria, Bosnia, India and the USA. The companies involved have more than 100 years of experience in the development and manufacture of electric motors, genera- tors and drive systems. ELIN Motors Bosnia, Zivinice As a result of the given ownership structure, the companies can KR Ing. Franz operate independently in the market and their flat organization Hrachowitz, enables them to respond to the individual requirements of their Shareholder customers with a high level of flexibility. and Mana- More Information: http://www.trasys.at/home/die-trasys-gruppe.html ging Director

Wischt d.o.o. The IRE is pleased to announce that the company Wischt d.o.o, based in Doboj (BiH), became member of the IRE network. Wischt d.o.o. compa- ny was founded in 1996 as a small workshop for wood processing, which in a short period of time has become one of the leaders for the manufacture of vacuum presses, both in the national and international market, from Eu- Zvjezdan Višt, Founder rope, North and South America, Russia, India to China. Its innovation and and Managing Director internationally recognized patents are confirmed by numerous awards. Quality control, innovation, customer care and competitive spirit make Wischt company the ideal partner for all companies regardless their dimen- sions, starting from the SMEs to industrial companies.

The machines are used in medium and industrial processes. The company has several types of presses for different applications and functions: in WOOD INDUSTRY for veneering, bending, laminating, forming ect., in GRAPHIC INDUSTRY for high quality Sublimation process, machines for Thermo/ Cold forming of different materials and machine for 3D PVC foil laminating. Wischt has also combined machines which can be used in multiple applica- tions at once or machines with more working tables for time saving in pro- duction. Founder and Managing Director of Wischt d.o.o. is Mr. Zvjezdan Višt.

For more Information see: http://www.wischt-vacuum-presses.com/

Regional Representation Office of Republika Srpska

The IRE is pleased to announce that the regional representation institutions on all levels as well as other Office of Republika Srpska in Austria headed by Mag. Mladen Austrian based international and dome- Filipović became member of the IRE network. stic stakeholders.

The regional representation office of the Republic of Srpska was The representation office of the Republic opened in Vienna in March 2012 by the government and the Presi- of Srpska in Austria supports the govern- dent of the Republic of Srpska. Since 2012, Mladen Filipović is hea- ment of the Republic of Srpska as well as ding the Representative office of the Government of Republic of its institutions by improving the coope- Mladen Filipović Srpska in Austria, aiming to establish, maintain and improve corre- ration with partners and organizations in spondence with the Austrian business community by intensifying Austria. ClaudiaSchmidtEU cooperation with the Austrian Chamber of Commerce, Austrian For more Information see: http://www.rep-srpska.at

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FOCUS Members & Cooperations Arad County Council – 25 years of European existence

Located at the western gate of Romania, on the IVth Pan Europe- an Corridor, Arad County is one of the most important counties in the country. Our capital city, Arad, was once named “Little Vien- na”, displays spectacular large parks and monumental buildings, LAND along the Mures River. At his turn, the Arad County benefits of impressive treasures. The Arad Vineyard with its famous Cadarca OBERÖSTERREICH Wine, the Lunca Muresului Natural Park, its fortresses, monasteries and beautiful surroundings are the whole package for a unique experience, blending different cultures and influences. Also, the Arad County offers many attractive investment opportunities for foreign partners. Taking into account its legal competences, the County Council encourages and supports the initiatives of the fo- „Klick dir reign and national businessmen willing to start developing here. In terms of European co-operation, the Arad County joined the In- stitute of the European Regions in 2008, an important platform for bitants, unique in the region. We currently are in an important municipalities, regions and enterprises from all over Europe built process of presenting Arad and Arad County as a significant tou- Oberösterreich!” up to point out the increasing importance of regions and munici- rism destination; therefore we would suggest you visit our website palities in European politics and in economic development. It was www.visitarad.ro and discover the main features of Arad: multicul- considered a privilege and an honour to be a full rights member of turalism, diversity and natural experiences. such an important European and regional network, to be part in a Die Homepage des Landes Oberösterreich select club where the level of expectations and hope for both sides Now, that the Arad County Council celebrates the anniversary of was rather high. In many ways we were pioneers and forerunners 25 years of existence, we wish to continue further on the fruitful of the Romanian counties, lobbying for the IRE, hosting IRE events cooperation with the IRE and all the IRE members and partners, hat für jede und jeden etwas: in Arad, as the Café d’Europe Régional and Europe’s Day in Arad, with all our friends from abroad. We have modestly started our in 2012, sending young interns to have a full training at the head- relation with Europe in 1993; we kept on learning and building, quarters of IRE in Salzburg, attending international reunions and showing an international opening, a European attitude and today • Aktuelle Infos und Leistungen starting-up fruitful co-operation partnerships. we are proud to be a development role model at regional level. The Arad County Council, as a major local actor and decisional ex- www.cjarad.ro von A bis Z ponent, was an efficient promoter of the basic IRE concepts and principles, for supporting social cohesion and sustainable econo- NUTZEN SIE mic development. Due to our geographic position and our Eu- • Serviceangebote ropean dynamic approach, today, the unemployment rate in the DIESEN county is lower than 2.5% and in the Arad city lower than 1%. Our und Förderungen well trained labour force, the economic and development poten- SERVICE! tial, the important investors, everything together has contributed auf einen Klick to raising the living standard of the population. Arad County has access to the highway, linking Arad to Budapest, Wien and the rest of Europe. The Arad County Council is currently • Formulare sofort herunterladen working on a project of a metropolitan area in the Western part of Romania, to create an urban agglomeration of 1 million inha- • Broschüren online bestellen • Für E-Government-Dienste Decentralization Strategy for Austria On 24 January 2017 IRE-chairman Franz Schausberger welcomed anmelden the CEO of IWS (Initiative Standort OÖ) Gottfried Kneifel in Salz- Joachim Fritz, burg. Kneifel reported on the rural depopulation in Austria: Austria Gottfried has a 40% negative population balance, meaning that 838 out of Kneifel 2,100 Austrian municipalities have a strong emigration history. Ba- and Franz sed on this, a counter-strategy is needed. Digitalization makes a Schausberger decentralization of all services and authorities possible. W20 WW.LAND-OBEROESTERREICnewsHregion.G 44V /. april17AT newsregion 44 / april17 21 FOCUS FOCUS Members & Cooperations Members & Cooperations

From the left: General Secretary Joachim Fritz, Member of the Exe- cutive Board Helmut Falschlehner, Ernst Rosi, Georg Krauchenberg, Chairman Franz Schausberger, Lukas Mandl, Deputy Chairman Stefan Eder, Josef Schöchl, Bernd Petrisch and Werner Weihs-Raabl. IRE-Board of Trustees met in Vienna

The first IRE Board of Trustees meeting this year took place on 17 sive opinion for the planned activities and projects. The aim is to February. Upon the invitation of Mag. Ernst Rosi, Senior Adviser provide the best possible support to regional and local authorities of the Managing Board of Raiffeisen Zentralbank, the members of in the future. The Board of Trustees consists of entrepreneurs, pu- the Board of Trustees met at the Raiffeisen Zentralbank Österreich blic officials and scientific experts who support the IRE Board of AG in Vienna. The IRE board regularly collects opinions and recom- Directors and the IRE team in their daily work for the regions and mendations from the advisory body in order to have a comprehen- cities of Europe.

IRE Member looks for Project Partners Come for a walk in my garden! The Inter-Municipal Development SAVE THE DATE Centre of the municipalities of Gro- suplje, Ivančna Gorica and Trebnje in Slovenia has been established Salzburg Summit in August 2016 as a joint munici- pal administration with the aim of „Next Generation“ preparing and coordinating projects for the three municipalities. 13th Conference of European Regions We cover the three neighboring municipalities, both geographi- cally and in terms of population. Our common goal is to provide and Cities for basic conditions, for a high-quality of life as well as additional content, services and infrastructure that will give the citizens a Sunday, 24 until higher added value. Tuesday 26 September 2017 We have a long-track record of EU projects, are highly motivated at Salzburg Congress with a strong sense of commitment and enthusiasm for project work. With us you can work on different types of projects: pilot/ „Next Generation – Attractive Regions demo projects, awareness raising, R&D, networking, motility, educa- and Cities for Future Generations“ tion and investment projects. The topics we are pursuing Under the Honorary Patronage of Alexander van der Bellen, in our local communities President of the Republic of Austria are sustainable tourism and Topics include: mobility, cultural and natural heritage, environment pro- w „The Next Generation of New EU Member tection, energy efficiency, States“ rural development, social w “How to keep Rural Areas attractive for Future inclusion, rural development Generations“ and enhancing access to ICT. w „The Next Generation of Renewable Energy“ We are searching for new w „ Private Education Institutions – a Chance for partners (municipalities, de- the Next Generation“ High-ranking Speaker velopment agencies/centers w „Start-ups in den Regionen – the Future for Commissioner the Young Generation“ and other associations) in Johannes Hahn the following EU programs: Erasmus+ Sport and Strategic More information will follow. partnerships, Urbact, Interreg If you are interested, please Please register with Martina Balazic: Finca Garbet de Castell de Peralada transnational, inter-regional contact Ms. Jasmina Selan at [email protected] DO Empordà - Costa Brava and cross-border Interreg SI- [email protected] HR, SI-AU, SI-IT, Creative Eu- tel.: +386 1 788 87 59 Stadt Salzburg rope and Europe for Citizens. More information: www.mrc-eu.si

22 newsregion 44 / april17 newsregion 44 / april17 23 Create jobs.

Austrian industry directly and indirectly secures 2.4 million jobs. Our companies need the right regulation framework in Austria and Europe to foster their competitiveness. Only then will we be able to create even more jobs.

Foto: dieindustrie.at/Mathias Kniepeiss

www.iv.at

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