The European Commission has adopted a strategy to support regions that border Belarus, Russia and Ukraine.
“From hybrid threats to demographic pressure and economic impact. Our eastern regions bordering Russia, Belarus and Ukraine are facing a wide range of challenges. We must support these regions and demonstrate our solidarity. Because our security depends on their strength, resilience and stability.
With today’s strategy for the eastern border regions, we are strengthening their security while at the same time stimulating growth and regional prosperity. To protect those who protect us,” European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said.
According to the European Commission’s press service, the strategy envisages five priority areas.
In the area of security, this includes the Eastern Flank Watch programme, as well as programmes related to protection against drones, air defence and other measures.
The European Commission plans to support regional growth through the EastInvest mechanism, designed to help interested countries obtain credit and advisory support. The European Investment Bank and other international financial institutions will be involved, and the European Commission will also cooperate with the World Bank.
“Priority attention is given to the integration of the Baltic states’ electricity systems with European grids and the development of cross-border hydrogen infrastructure, such as the Scandinavian-Baltic Hydrogen Corridor,” the statement said.
Support will also be provided for the development of communications and the modernisation of transport networks, including dual-use roads, rail and port infrastructure, as well as cross-border links with Ukraine and Moldova.
Assistance will be extended to education, the media and the fight against disinformation.
The European Commission intends to hold the first high-level political dialogue on February 26 to facilitate discussion of EU actions and their impact on the resilience and development of EU eastern regions bordering Russia, Belarus and Ukraine.