The President of the Basque Country is emphasising the importance of the Basque Country as a reliable partner in the European project, and the region’s commitment to strengthening the European project.

• “You are all our primary representatives and advocates in Europe. Your input is vital for the Basque Country to maintain its global and connected status," stated the President Imanol Pradales to the Basque community in Brussels.

This afternoon, the President presided over a reception with the Basque community at the Basque Government Delegation to the European Union. He took the opportunity to reiterate the Basque Country's commitment to the stability and strength of the European project. In his speech, Imanol Pradales highlighted the Basque Country's reputation for reliability and trustworthiness, as well as its stability and security. He also emphasised the region's commitment to strengthening the European regional framework and contributing to the global development of the European Union.

In his speech, the President highlighted the Basque Country's alignment with key European policies and values, including strategic sovereignty, the welfare and cohesion model, welfare-oriented competitiveness and human rights. “Our commitment to Europe is multifaceted, extending beyond political and economic considerations to encompass ethical and social aspects. We uphold the founding values of the European Union, including peace, democracy, freedom and solidarity," he stated.

The President also highlighted the concrete steps that the Basque Government is taking to strengthen the presence and influence of the Basque Country in Europe: the agreement, within the framework of the Joint Economic Agreement Commission for the Basque Country, to increase the participation of the Basque Country in forums such as ECOFIN and the OECD; the creation of the Atlantic Macroregion to strengthen strategic alliances to strengthen regional cooperation; and the increase in participation in organisations of cities and regions.

The President also sent an emotional message to the Basque community in Brussels, thanking them for their work as Basque Country ambassadors and stressing the importance of their contribution to human, cultural and economic development: “You are all our primary representatives and advocates in Europe. Your input is vital for the Basque Country to maintain its global and connected status.”

In conclusion, Pradales reiterated his dedication to a Europe that is shaped by its people, moving beyond the concept of a mere “club of states”. “The Basque Country is committed to playing an active role in strengthening Europe, with the goal of fostering a Union with the capacity for global influence. We are a reliable, stable, and secure country that Europe can trust and rely on," he concluded.