Welcome by the Secretary General

Dear Visitors,

It is a pleasure to welcome you to the website of the Adriatic and Ionian Initiative.

Over the years, the Adriatic-Ionian Region has confirmed itself as a unique area of Europe, where an extraordinary cultural and natural heritage coexists with significant socio-economic challenges. From historic cities and UNESCO sites to diverse landscapes and vibrant communities, this Region represents both a shared legacy and a common responsibility.

In this context, the Adriatic and Ionian Initiative continues to play a key role in fostering dialogue, cooperation and mutual understanding among its Member States. In close synergy with the EU Strategy for the Adriatic and Ionian Region (EUSAIR), the Initiative contributes to strengthening regional cohesion, promoting sustainable development, and supporting the European integration perspective of the Western Balkans.

A defining feature of our work is the continuous engagement with a wide range of stakeholders. Through its activities, the Initiative brings together governments, parliaments, regional and local authorities, academia, civil society and economic actors, encouraging a multi-level and inclusive approach to regional cooperation.

Particular attention is devoted to enhancing connectivity — not only in terms of transport and energy, but also in terms of people-to-people exchanges, knowledge sharing and institutional cooperation. In an increasingly complex geopolitical environment, strengthening these links is essential to ensure stability, resilience and prosperity across the Region.

The Adriatic and Ionian Initiative Permanent Secretariat, based in Ancona, remains fully committed to supporting the rotating Chairmanship and to facilitating cooperation across all pillars of the macro-regional strategy. It will continue to act as a reliable platform for coordination, dialogue and project development.

We invite you to explore our activities and to follow our ongoing efforts to promote a more connected, sustainable and inclusive Adriatic-Ionian Region.

Amb. Giovanni Castellaneta
Secretary General
Adriatic and Ionian Initiative