To mark Europe Day, Lanzarote hosted a debate on the role of the Outermost Regions (ORs) and their contribution to the future of the European Union. At an event held on the Islote de Fermina, figures from politics, youth and civil society came together to reflect on how the Canary Islands, and in particular Lanzarote, can consolidate themselves as key players in the global debates and challenges facing Europe.
The day, organised by Equipo Europa Canarias, in collaboration with the Cabildo de Lanzarote, through the Art, Culture and Tourism Centres, Europe Direct Canarias and the Canarian Council of the European Movement, placed special emphasis on the role of young people, who, as the president of the Cabildo de Lanzarote, Oswaldo Betancort, stressed, "are the future leaders of a more modern and resilient Europe".
The opening ceremony was attended by the Councillor for Youth and Crafts, Industry, Commerce and Consumer Affairs of the Cabildo de Lanzarote, Aroa Revelo, who highlighted the importance of Europe Day: "Europe Day invites us to look to the future and to recognise the role we play from Lanzarote in the great challenges of the European Union. We are an outermost region with much to contribute, especially in sustainability, innovation and culture. Our development model, which integrates art, nature and progress, demonstrates that it is possible to grow without losing what makes us unique."
Revelo also underlined the transformative role of youth, pointing out that "the young people of Lanzarote have talent, ideas and an enormous capacity to lead the changes that Europe needs. From the Cabildo we are giving them the space and resources so that they can actively participate in the construction of a fairer, more supportive society, prepared for global challenges", she concluded.
During the round table entitled "Quo Vadis Europa? The role of the Canary Islands and Lanzarote in the EU in this new world", various experts debated the challenges and opportunities for the islands within the European context. The following participated in this debate:
- Eliana Parilla Morin, President of the Canary Islands Youth Council
- Manuel Medina Ortega, President of the Canarian Council of the European Movement
- Diego Ruiz, President of Equipo Europa Canarias
- José Valle, President of the Chamber of Commerce of Lanzarote and La Graciosa
- Lucas Pérez, Academic Director of the European Documentation Centre of the ULPGC
- María Cabrera, lawyer and expert in International Relations.
Key reflections included the role of the Canary Islands as a bridge between Europe and Africa, the exploitation of its uniqueness in sustainability and the promotion of youth participation in European politics. The session highlighted Lanzarote's commitment to innovation, sustainability and its capacity to positively influence the future of Europe.
At the end of the day, the San Gabriel Castle was illuminated with the flag of Europe, symbolising the unity and commitment of Lanzarote to European ideals. Finally, the attendees enjoyed a wine and an enyesque, as the closing of an evening that underlined the island's commitment to the future of Europe.
This event is part of the continuous effort to strengthen the ties between the Outermost Regions and the European institutions, betting on Lanzarote as a key space for innovation and reflection on the future of the EU.
