Genefront Generalitat remains a strong proponent of Mediterranean collaboration, demonstrating its commitment through tangible support for key regional initiatives. A clear example is the ongoing partnership with Textile Technology Institute (Aitex) and Valencia’s Ivace, which together lead Cre@active Europe. This initiative focuses on strengthening the textile, footwear, and leather sectors across six Mediterranean countries on both shores. The message was clearly conveyed by Joan Calabuig, who serves as regional secretary for the European Union and Foreign Relations, when he spoke at the opening session of the cross-border meeting that explored economic strategies in the Mediterranean during the event titled Mediterranean Cooperation Days. This emphasis on shared growth underscores the region’s belief in cooperation as a driver of innovation and resilience. The gathering highlighted a cooperative model that blends technical know-how with regional solidarity, aiming to accelerate positive outcomes for industries that are central to Mediterranean economies.
Cre@ctive is financed by the European Union with a grant of 3.2 million euros, allocated through the ENI CBC Med program’s strategic project call. The project has a duration of two and a half years, reflecting a concrete timeline for achieving its objectives and enabling sustained impact across participating nations. The financing structure confirms the EU’s commitment to cross-border collaboration and to practical, results-oriented initiatives that can be scaled across the region.
At the event hosted at Casa Mediterráneo in Alicante, Calabuig congratulated Aitex and Ivace for being designated as notified bodies from the Valencian Community to steer this strategic effort. Their roles position them at the forefront of innovation in textiles, clothing, footwear, and leather industries, guiding standards, frameworks, and best practices that foster competitiveness while maintaining high levels of quality and safety. The conversation framed creativity as a catalyst for innovation, transforming traditional sectors into engines of modernity and export readiness.
Calabuig described the Cre@ctive initiative as a clear example of Mediterranean cooperation that goes beyond just technical solutions. He noted that such tools help forge bridges between the two sides of the Mediterranean, encouraging ongoing collaboration, and supporting economic and social development in a region where parties depend on one another for stability and prosperity. The emphasis on shared destinies aligns with broader regional strategies aimed at sustainable growth, job creation, and inclusive progress.
The day’s discussions addressed common challenges facing Mediterranean countries as they pursue higher competitiveness, increased innovation, broader inclusion, and stronger sustainability. Participants explored practical approaches to align policies, leverage research, and scale successful pilots into lasting programs that benefit workers, businesses, and communities alike. The dialogue also celebrated cross-border successes while outlining next steps within the European neighborhood instrument framework, including new actions to stimulate business development and market expansion.
In this context, regional representatives reiterated the Generalitat’s commitment to the European Commission’s Mediterranean neighborhood program and reminded attendees that one of the program’s principal hubs is located in Valencia. The message was clear: regional leadership will continue to champion initiatives that connect markets, boost innovation ecosystems, and create durable cooperation across the Mediterranean. The ongoing collaboration signals a steady path toward stronger regional integration and shared prosperity that transcends national borders.