Minister of Presidency, Justice, and Sports, Diego Calvo, today highlighted the importance of cooperation between Galicia and Northern Portugal at the inauguration of the I Cross-Border Atlantic Forum. The goal is to jointly advance in improving the competitiveness and international projection of the 750,000 companies on both sides of the border, as well as addressing the demands of the 6.5 million inhabitants of this territory.
Calvo emphasized the work of the European Grouping of Territorial Cooperation (EGTC) of the Galicia-Northern Portugal Euroregion, which includes cooperation in economy and industry. He also referred to the coordination between Spain, Portugal, France, and Ireland for the development of an Atlantic Macoregion with shared challenges.
Furthermore, he addressed the need to defend the central role of regions in planning and managing European funds in the new Multiannual Financial Framework 2028-2034, as well as ensuring sufficient financial allocation for cohesion, agricultural, and fisheries policies.
Regarding connectivity, the minister stated the necessity of modern railway connections. He considers it fundamental to advance in strategic infrastructures such as the Northwest Atlantic Corridor or the high-speed train between Vigo and Porto. The Xunta is requesting concrete details on investments and a realistic timeline for the Atlantic Corridor. The high-speed connection with Portugal faces delays, with its launch anticipated for 2037 and 2038, respectively.
