Cross-Border Cooperation - A Tool for Regional Development in Europe

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to present the importance of the cross border cooperation for the regional development in European Union. We would also want to put a stress on the euroregions concept, as forms for promoting regional integration through cross border cooperation - the case of Siret-Prut-Nistru Euroregion situated in Romania-Moldova Republic border area. With its last enlargement in 2007, the European Union has taken a big step forward in promoting security and prosperity on the European continent. The accession of Romania in E.U. also means that the external borders of the Union have changed, E.U. have acquired new neighbours and have come closer to old ones. These circumstances have created both opportunities and challenges. In this context, the Economic and Social Development Strategy for Siret-Prut-Nistru Euroregion, 2007-2013 project aims to promote reinforcing the existing forms of regional cooperation and to provide a strategic framework for their further development, which is corresponding to the objectives of the European Neighbourhood Policy. In this context, the cooperation between Ungheni (Republic of Moldova) and Iasi (Romania) evolved and conveyed to an institutional structure - Siret-Prut-Nistru euroregion. We think the future success or failure of this entity is depending on the public administrations capacities to promote and sustain partnerships.