Three Seas Local Government Congress: Lublin strengthens regional cooperation for a new European balance

Against the backdrop of geopolitical shifts and economic transformation, the congress serves as a bottom-up complement to the presidential-level 3SI framework, providing a platform for practical cooperation between over 300 regions across central and eastern Europe. With an expected 1,200 participants from 25 countries, this year’s edition aims to drive infrastructure development, digital transformation, and security initiatives within the region.

Strategic priorities for the 2024 congress. Day 1: Infrastructure, AI, and economic resilience

The congress will open with a high-level review of the Three Seas Initiative’s first decade, assessing key achievements, investment flows, and policy directions for the future. A central theme will be artificial intelligence (AI) and its role in regional development, with a focus on applications in healthcare, cybersecurity, and economic competitiveness.

Key agenda items include:

• EU policy & 3SI: An analysis of the European Commission’s stance on the initiative’s macroeconomic impact.
• Strategic infrastructure: Updates on priority projects, including the Via Carpatia transport corridor, a critical link for trade and mobility across Poland, Slovakia, and Hungary.
• Digital transformation & AI: A dedicated panel on AI applications, featuring insights from Stanford University experts.
• Tourism as an economic driver: The launch of the 3Seas tourism network, a regional initiative designed to boost interregional tourism collaboration, particularly between Poland and Bulgaria.

The first day will culminate in the Three Seas regions gala, celebrating outstanding contributions to international business expansion, regional economic growth, and cross-border cooperation within the 3SI framework.

Day 2: Security, energy, and future markets

As regional security remains a top priority, the second day will focus on economic stability, energy transition, and Ukraine’s path to EU integration. Given its strategic location, Lublin voivodeship is emerging as a key player in Ukraine’s reconstruction efforts, and discussions will explore how regional partnerships can facilitate infrastructure rebuilding and investment flows.

Additional highlights include:

• Energy transition & security: Addressing challenges in green energy adoption, nuclear energy, and cross-border energy security.
• Regional trade & SMEs: A dedicated economic forum focused on SME internationalization, featuring case studies from Expo 2025 Osaka.
• Multimodal transport & logistics: Insights into cargo aviation, rail infrastructure, and logistics hubs as part of the Via Carpatia expansion.
• Cultural diplomacy & soft power: Exploring the role of heritage, cultural networks, and tourism in strengthening regional identity and international cooperation.

The congress will also provide B2B networking opportunities, offering businesses direct access to policymakers and industry leaders shaping the future of the Three Seas region.

Lublin’s growing influence in the Three Seas Initiative

With its historical legacy as the birthplace of the Union of Lublin, the city is positioning itself as a leading force in regional integration. The congress serves as a platform to forge new alliances, attract foreign investment, and drive digital innovation across central and eastern Europe.

- The Three Seas Initiative is no longer just a concept—it is becoming a powerful engine for regional development, with increasing global interest, including from the United States. This congress provides a crucial space for shaping the next phase of economic and strategic cooperation, said Jarosław Stawiarski, marshal of the Lublin voivodeship.

As the Three Seas Initiative continues to evolve, the 2024 congress is expected to deliver tangible outcomes, further solidifying Lublin’s role as a regional leader and a key gateway for interregional partnerships in Europe.

Gazeta Morska and Daily Mare have taken media patronage over the event.