19 September 2024 will go down in history as an important moment in the strengthening of the partnership between Ukraine, Moldova and Romania.

The Forum of International Territorial Cooperation "From Cross-Border Cooperation to European Integration" was the first place where real mechanisms for sustainable development of communities and regions were discussed. The event brought together representatives of embassies and consulates, community leaders, as well as project managers of territorial development projects.

The first panel of the Forum discussed the strategic plan for the creation of the Bujak Euroregion, which will become an important platform for uniting the southern communities of Ukraine and the ghosts of the Republic of Moldova on their way to European integration.

Ivan KUSSE, head of the Borodino settlement territorial community, emphasised the importance of this initiative: "The Budzhak Euroregion is a way to economic and social growth of our regions, it is a bridge to the European family for our communities."

Second panel: "ArcGIS: new technologies for development". Technology is changing the world, and rural communities in southern Ukraine are not standing aside. The second panel discussed the capabilities of the ArcGIS platform, which helps prepare grant projects for sustainable development of territories. The programme creates new opportunities for monitoring and managing regional development. In particular, communities will be able to use ArcGIS to attract investment and improve infrastructure.

"ArcGIS is the key to empowering our communities. It is a new management philosophy that enables us to build a better future," said Andriy STEFANOVYCH

"Craft wine production - a new lease of life for the economy" was the central theme of the third panel. Craft production not only contributes to economic development, but also strengthens social ties in communities. The experience of the southern communities of Odesa Oblast and Moldovan primarii shows that winemaking can be a key factor in developing tourism and attracting investment.

Alla STOYANOVA said: "Craft winemaking is not only an economic engine, but also a source of genuine community bonding. It awakens in people a sense of pride in their traditions, strengthens social ties and creates new opportunities for cooperation. The experience of the southern communities of Odesa Oblast and Moldovan ghost towns clearly shows how craft production is becoming not just a craft, but the basis for developing new forms of tourism and attracting investors.

The recent adoption of two powerful laws has given a new impetus to this development.

Firstly, the registration of small wineries has been simplified, which significantly reduces bureaucratic obstacles. Secondly, legislation has been adopted that provides additional benefits for wineries, stimulating their development and competitiveness in the European market. These changes open the door for the region's wine industry to become a key driver of economic growth and international recognition.

Craft wine is more than a product. It is a symbol of centuries-old traditions that unite hearts and give communities the strength to develop, innovate and prosper."

The final panel of the forum was dedicated to tourism, which can be the fastest way to European integration for border regions. The communities of southern Odesa Oblast and Moldova have unique natural and cultural resources, which opens up great prospects for the tourism business.

Oleksandr Palariiev emphasised: "Tourism is one of the drivers of economic development. It is the way to the heart of Europe, which leads through our culture, traditions and heritage. Together we can build a future where every community will find its place in the European family."

"In this time, a time of war, international interregional cooperation is more important than ever, and as it was once said: "In times of trial, we find in partnership what keeps us hopeful."

Today, thanks to our joint efforts and your support, we are not only fighting for freedom, but also building our future, which will be European, modern and strong. I am sincerely grateful to our partners for their support, which saves lives of our people and helps Ukraine to survive. Together, we will achieve victory, prosperity and a common European family!" said Alla STOYANOVA.

The Forum "From Cross-border Cooperation to European Integration" was an important step for Ukraine and Moldova on the way to synchronisation with the European community. Cooperation and joint efforts to introduce the latest technologies create a solid foundation for the sustainable development of our regions.

ACTING TOGETHER FOR VICTORY!