1. Example of Strategy 20 April 2012, Vänersborg Session 3: International relations strategies Region Västra Götaland Annual strategy 2012 (subject to approval by the Regional Executive Board)

2. To which specific political needs/priorities does the strategy respond to? European decision-making Geography Globalization The regional authority responsible for development in a globalized coastal border region in the EU must work with an international perspective!

3. What is the structure of the strategy? Annual ”action plan” approved by the Regional Executive Board Based on the long-term International Policy (adopted by the Regional Council)

4. What are its key elements? i.e the concrete actions to be developed through the strategy - Follow and influence European decision-making - Strengthen the region’s position in Brussels - Use our membership in European organisations efficiently - Lead or participate in strategic European projects - Attract European meetings to Västra Götaland - Co-ordinate our action in Scandinavian organisations - Develop the co-operation with Norway and Denmark - Involve national and European level in North Sea issues - Promote participation in Baltic Sea cooperation - Strengthen, in cooperation with other actors, structures for global exchange - Participate in national promotional activities abroad