Approaches of the Basque Country and Catalonia to Interregional Cooperation: Comparative Analysis

Abstract

The paper focuses on a comparative analysis of the approaches to interregional cooperation used by two Spanish regions: the Basque Country and Catalonia. The main strategic documents which set the goals, tasks and directions of the autonomous regions in interregional cooperation are considered. Factors that shape the principles of the regions in developing interregional links are described. Spanish legislation which lays foundation for interregional action of the Basque Country and Catalonia is reviewed. Particular attention is paid to the key vectors of partnership between the Spanish and French territories in the framework of two Euroregions: New Aquitaine-Basque Country-Navarre and Pyrenees-Mediterranean. In addition, the main tasks stipulated in the Programme of the Catalan Presidency in the interregional association the Four Motors for Europe are examined. Furthermore, the paper identifies the role of the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals in the hierarchy of priorities for interregional action in both regions. As a result of the research, similarities and differences in the approaches to interregional cooperation used by the Basque Country and Catalonia are underscored.