Grown Partnership

The Four Motors for Europe

The Baden-Württemberg Ministry of the Environment has been a member of the environmental working group of the “Four Motors for Europe” network for more than 30 years.

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On March 20, 2023, Baden-Württemberg took over the presidency of the Four Motors for Europe
On March 20, 2023, Baden-Württemberg took over the presidency of the Four Motors for Europe (from left): Minister Raffaele Cattaneo (Lombardy), Vice President Philippe Meunier (Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes), State Secretary Florian Hassler (Baden-Württemberg), State Secretary Dr. Patrick Rapp (Baden-Württemberg) und Joan Romero i Circuns (Executive Director at ACCIÓ/Catalonia Trade & Investment – Government of Catalonia)

The Four Motors for Europe is a network founded in 1988 including four of Europe's strongest economic regions: Baden-Württemberg (Germany), Catalonia (Spain), Lombardy (Italy) and Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes (France). These regions are among the continent's most powerful economic areas and contribute significantly to Europe's economic development with their high level of industrialisation, export strength and innovative power.

A main aspect of the cooperation is the close networking in key sectors such as mechanical engineering, the automotive industry, aerospace, biotechnology and information and communication technology. Through joint research and development projects, the Four Motors drive innovation and promote dialogue between universities, research institutions and companies. The focus is particularly on future technologies, sustainable economic models and digitalisation.

The cooperation also includes economic policy initiatives aimed at strengthening the European single market and facilitating access to new markets for small and medium-sized enterprises. The promotion of education and culture also plays a central role: European cohesion is to be strengthened through exchange programmes for students and specialists as well as joint cultural projects. Another key concern is sustainability. The partner regions are actively committed to environmental and climate protection by promoting environmentally friendly technologies, expanding renewable energies and developing measures to reduce CO₂ emissions.

The Four Motors for Europe are an example of successful cross-border cooperation that not only secures regional prosperity, but also strengthens European competitiveness in the long term.

Further information on current projects and initiatives can be found on the official website: www.4motors.eu