European Leaders Forum Confirms Key Role of Cross-Border Cooperation for EU's Future

Representatives from more than 80 Interreg programs across Europe gathered in Brussels on May 7, 2026, for the Interreg Leaders Forum organized by the Interact program. The event brought together officials from the European Parliament, European Committee of the Regions, European Economic and Social Committee, European Commission, and the Cypriot presidency to discuss territorial cooperation initiatives. Interreg is the European Union's main instrument for supporting cross-border, transnational, and interregional cooperation projects, providing funding for joint initiatives between regions and countries to address common challenges and promote economic development. The forum emphasized the critical importance of territorial cooperation in shaping Europe's future development and strengthening regional partnerships across the continent.