Under the chairmanship of EA group President Karl Vanlouwe this year's European Week of Regions and Cities seminar focused on 'Strengthening the role of Nations and Regions in Economic development'.

To a packed room the seminar brought together policy makers and practitioners from Flanders, the Vanguard initiative, Gdynia City Council and from the Northern & Western region of Ireland.

It was clear from discussions that nations, regions, cities and local authorities are the level of governance closest to the citizens and business and therefore crucial for economic development.  Different strategies were discussed as well as the role of the European Union to allow more flexibility for the relevant level of governance to enhance their regional and local economies.

The seminar also examined strengthening the economic development, bridging the investment gap, as well as current challenges and opportunities.