A delegation of 15 public administrations from Basilicata and Puglia recently concluded a mission to Brussels, engaging with European institutions to discuss key initiatives supporting local governments and fostering their participation in the European policy-making process.
Strengthening Local Representation in Europe
The two-day mission, promoted by the EDIH – Heritage SmartLab Innovation Hub, brought together over twenty representatives, including mayors, directors, and public officials from the municipalities of Potenza, Cirigliano, Bella, Laurenzana, and the Chamber of Commerce of Basilicata, as well as the Apulian municipalities of Lecce, Monteroni, Nardò, and Porto Cesareo, along with its Marine Protected Area.
On February 18, the delegation attended a session at the European Committee of the Regions, a key advisory body for the European institutions. The meeting aimed to enhance the representation and promotion of regional and local interests in European decision-making, optimizing the role of delegations and commissions.
Building Strategic Alliances
Following this, the delegation participated in a networking session at the Italo-Belgian Chamber of Commerce conference room. Key attendees included Giorgio De Bin, Secretary General of the Chamber, Bruno Mola from the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Climate, Roya Ayazi, Secretary General of the NEREUS network, and representatives from various Italian organizations in Belgium, including regional offices and Unioncamere Europa.
The discussion focused on how these institutions support public policy development and provide information on tools and programs available for regional development in Europe.
Engaging with European Parliamentarians
On February 19, the delegation took part in a workshop with Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) from Southern Italy, including Giusi Princi, Raffaele Topo and Michele Picaro. The MEPs listened to the concerns and proposals of the local representatives, highlighting the essential role of municipalities in both cohesion policies and the digital and green transition. Special attention was given to the needs of rural and mountain areas, which seek to position themselves as sustainable development alternatives.
A Step Towards Internationalization
This high-level engagement with European institutions is part of the matchmaking and internationalization efforts for the public administrations of Puglia and Basilicata under the European Digital Innovation Hub project.
Co-financed by the European Commission and the Italian Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy (MIMIT), the initiative is supported by Materahub and EXO Ricerca, with additional contributions from the Basilicata Creativa cluster and the Italo-Belgian Chamber of Commerce.
The mission marked a significant step in strengthening local governance in European affairs, equipping local authorities with the tools and networks necessary to navigate and leverage EU opportunities effectively.
