We commemorate the 28th anniversary of the Conference of European Regional Legislative Assemblies (CALRE), a space that since its birth on October 7, 1997, has served as a driving force for cooperation, a forum for dialogue, and a platform for advocacy for regions with legislative capacity. This trajectory of almost three decades invites us both to celebrate what has been achieved and to renew our commitment to the future.
CALRE was born from a clear conviction: Europe cannot be built by turning its back on the diversity of its territories. Listening to our voices means enriching the European project with close-up experiences, innovative solutions, and sensitivities rooted in the daily lives of millions of people.
In a constantly changing world, the relevance of our work lies in making visible the needs and potential of our regions, favoring a governance model where decisions are made close to the people.
Through its work, the CALRE reinforces the role of the regions as protagonists in the great challenges of today: digitalisation, social and territorial cohesion, and the phenomenon of migratory flows. This common effort not only enriches the regions, but also contributes to the strengthening of the European project, demonstrating that diversity is a source of wealth and that cooperation is key to collective progress.
In celebrating this anniversary, it is only fair to acknowledge the tireless dedication of all member assemblies and parliaments. The daily commitment of their teams, the constant willingness to collaborate, and the dedication to sharing good practices have made the CALRE a solid and plural platform. Thanks to this joint effort, today we are an organization capable of actively influencing the decisions of the European Union and of legitimately representing the interests and challenges of our territories.
Likewise, I want to express my sincere gratitude to all the presidents who have led the CALRE over these 28 years. Their dedication, European vision, and capacity for dialogue have been fundamental for the conference to move forward with a firm step, integrating new ideas and always defending the value of regional diversity. Each mandate has contributed to consolidating this network as a respected and heard voice in the European context, laying the foundations for the collective effort that unites us today.
In this regard, I am very proud that, under the presidency of the Canary Islands, we have taken a historic step: the approval of a joint manifesto of all the legislative assemblies that will be our common position in the debate on the next Multiannual Financial Framework 2028-2034.
There, we called for a more inclusive European model, adapted to the reality of all regions, with flexible structural funds, attention to diversity, and sufficient resources for key sectors such as transport, agriculture, or education.
And the fact is that the future of Europe is being decided now. In debates such as those on the budget, competitiveness and economic growth, and the ecological, digital and social transitions, among others.
Therefore, from the CALRE, we reaffirm our commitment to a Europe that is close, plural, and equitable, where territorial diversity is not a barrier but a collective advantage. With unity and cooperation, the regions can continue to be drivers of innovation, development, and social cohesion.
On behalf of all the people who make CALRE possible, I invite you to join us on this path. Because Europe will be stronger, more prosperous, and fairer if we listen to the different voices that make it up and if we work from the ground up, with respect and shared ambition.
United we stand, divided we fall. The future of our regions, and therefore the future of Europe, depends on our unity.