International cooperation

The Alpine Convention is the world's first treaty under international law designed to protect a mountain region. It is unique in defining a mountain region independently of national borders as a functional geographical unit, and as an important heritage and economic area that faces a common set of challenges.

The EU-Strategy for the Alpine Region (EUSALP) aims at strengthening the cooperation between Alpine regions and countries.

Launched by the European Union in 1990, Interreg programmes are intended to facilitate integration within Europe, as well as a balanced approach to cross-border development.

ESPON aims to establish a permanent system of spatial monitoring of the European territory. The ARE represents Switzerland in the programme.