10 Years of the EU Strategy for the Adriatic and Ionian Region
Celebrating a Decade of Cooperation
This year marks the 10th anniversary of the EU Strategy for the Adriatic and Ionian Region (EUSAIR), a visionary framework that has brought together 10 participating countries in a shared commitment to regional cooperation, sustainability, and innovation.
Since its launch in 2014, EUSAIR has served as a dynamic platform for fostering dialogue, aligning strategic priorities, and implementing impactful cross-border cooperation.
From sustainable blue growth and environmental protection to improved connectivity and cultural preservation, each country has played a vital role in a decade of collective progress. This page celebrates those milestones, showcasing success stories that reflect the power of collaboration among governments, communities, NGOs, and the private sector.
Each month we will share how each participating country has helped shape a more sustainable, connected, and thriving Adriatic and Ionian region.
CROATIAN STORY
10 Years of the EU Strategy for the Adriatic and Ionian Region: Croatia’s Perspective
As one of four EU member states engaged in this innovative regional cooperation among ten countries forming the area around Ionian and Adriatic Seas, Croatia places significant emphasis on dialogue and collaboration. Sitting at the same table with representatives from nine other nations is both challenging and rewarding, Croatian representatives highlight, emphasizing that much of the progress made in recent years would not have been possible without such an approach.
When discussing the benefits Croatia has gained from the Strategy, the conversation could go on indefinitely. Therefore, we asked Croatian representatives involved in the implementation of the EU Strategy for the Adriatic and Ionian Region to highlight specific examples from each thematic area.
Here’s what they emphasized:
Regional tourism cooperation – bringing together countries that, while competitors in tourism, aim to build a shared future.
Introduction of the fifth, social pillar focused on social issues, a crucial dimension Croatia strongly advocated during its 2023/2024 presidency.
Enhanced position in EU transport planning – strengthening Croatia’s role in the TEN-T network of European transport corridors through regionally developed documents.
Cross-border environmental protection projects – fostering sustainable management systems.
Youth inclusion was special priority for National Coordinator Lidija Pansegrau Hadrović, head of the Department for European Macro-Regions at the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs.
