In the context of consultations regarding the future of Interreg Programmes, the Managing Authority of the Interreg IPA Romania – Serbia Programme and the Managing Authority of the Interreg VI-A Romania – Hungary Programme organised, on 11 October 2024, in Timișoara, a public debate with the academic community.

This public debate, conducted at the level of each Interreg programme within the European Union and due to be completed by the end of 2024, will form the basis for the post-2027 regulation proposals, which will be presented by the European Commission in mid-2025.

Given the need to pay special attention to young people and academic institutions during these consultations, the Managing Authorities of both programmes within the Ministry of Development, Public Works and Administration (MDPWA) supported the active involvement of students and university staff in defining the future cross-border cooperation programmes between Romania-Serbia and Romania-Hungary, which should reflect their real aspirations and needs.

The dialogue between the Interreg Programme representatives from MDPWA and the university staff, as well as the students from the King Michael I University of Life Sciences in Timișoara, also aimed to support the academic community in presenting valuable perspectives and innovative ideas that can significantly contribute to shaping an effective strategy for future Interreg programmes.