Brittany Region President welcomes EU-Based stakeholders in Brussels
19/02/2025
On February 18, 2025, in Brussels, Maison de la Bretagne hosted a reception bringing together key stakeholders to discuss European issues for Brittany. The event was chaired by the Brittany President, Mr Loïg Chesnais-Girard, who welcomed Brussels’ stakeholders and set the stage for a dynamic exchange on the need for European cooperation in the face of evolving global challenges.
The event was also attended by the EARLALL Director and representatives from various EARLALL regions. They cordially shared with the President and other Brittany representatives the importance of lifelong learning, upskilling, and reskilling as essential components of Europe’s competitiveness and growth. Their discussions emphasized the need for continuous investment in education and training to equip citizens with the necessary skills to adapt to the evolving economic landscape.
The Brittany President highlighted three crucial pillars for the future of the European Union: solidarity in the geopolitical context, a stronger commitment to defence and European industries, and the protection of cohesion policies to safeguard EU citizens.
A Unified Europe in a Changing Geopolitical Landscape: The President stressed that Europe must stand together given the current geopolitical tensions, particularly in light of the war in Ukraine, discussions at the Munich Security Conference, and the uncertainties surrounding the new Trump mandate in the United States. As the global balance shifts, the EU must reinforce its commitment to democratic values, freedom, and citizenship. The President proposed a structured debate, from regional levels to the European Parliament, to ensure that these fundamental values are upheld and promoted throughout the continent.
Strengthening Defence and European Industry: Recognizing the growing security threats, Mr Chesnais-Girard emphasized the importance of reinforcing European defence capabilities and protecting its territory, including Ukraine. A robust defence strategy must include investment in European industries, ensuring Europe is prepared for conventional and cyber threats. The President noted the example of Brittany, which in the past decade has transitioned from a focus on cybersecurity to a leading role in cyber-defence. This transformation exemplifies how regional expertise can contribute to broader European security initiatives.
Defending Cohesion Policies to Protect Citizens In times of change, the President reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to cohesion policy as a central pillar of European integration. He cautioned against conflating simplification with nationalization, stressing that political discussions and decisions should remain close to the citizens at the local and regional levels. Cohesion policies must continue to be a priority, ensuring economic and social stability across all regions of the EU, particularly in challenging times.
As an EARLALL Member network, Brittany actively supports initiatives that promote lifelong learning and skills development. The discussions at the reception reinforced the significance of investing in education and training as a means to enhance Europe’s economic resilience and adaptability.
