Sátoraljaújhely takes the floor in the ACCESS reference group series

21 February 2024

As part of the #ACCESS Project, CESCI along with CESCI Carpathia, has embarked on a mission to streamline cross-border cooperation and enhance integration between Hungary and Slovakia. Following the successful initiation of reference group workshops in Győr, Esztergom, Putnok and Balassagyarmat, the latest workshop took place in Sátoraljaújhely, furthering the project’s goals to identify and mitigate obstacles to cross-border activities.

Held on 13 February 2024 in the assembly hall of the Sátoraljaújhely Town Hall, the  workshop was greeted by Sátoraljaújhely’s Mayor Péter Szamosvölgyi and David Bán from the Hungarian Ministry of Public Administration and Territorial Development.

The focal point of the workshop was the detailed background material prepared by CESCI, available in both Hungarian and Slovak. This comprehensive document facilitated a deep dive into the intricacies of cross-border cooperation, shedding light on Sátoraljaújhely’s pivotal role in the Hungary-Slovakia border region. Discussions revolved around the city’s potential as a link for economic, cultural, and infrastructural ties between the two nations, especially considering its strategic position near the Tokaj-Hegyalja region and the Slovak Bodrog area.

Key topics included the importance of enhancing cross-border mobility and economic integration, with special attention to the success of past INTERREG projects, the promising areas of tourism, culture, education, and healthcare. The workshop underscored the significance of addressing challenges related to the cross-border transport infrastructure, including the need for improvements in public transport and road connectivity.

The event also highlighted ongoing discussions and potential strategies for overcoming administrative and legal hurdles that impede seamless cross-border collaboration. Emphasising the role of the CESCI in fostering dialogue and partnership, the workshop served as a platform for sharing experiences, best practices, and visions for future projects.

The #ACCESS Project workshops continue to serve as a vital forum for advancing cross-border cooperation, with future reference groups to be convened in Košice, Bratislava, Lučenec and Komárno.