This exhibition, opening today, offers an informative journey for citizens on the influence of the European project. Through various panels, it highlights the progress made in urban transformation, economic development, social cohesion, and the modernization of public services. At the same time, it invites reflection on the current and future challenges of the European Union as a space for cooperation and shared progress.
The inauguration ceremony brought together institutional representatives and members of the city's social, business, and educational sectors. The mayor of Gandia, José Manuel Prieto, emphasized that Spain's accession to the European Union was «an essential event for economic, social, and human progress,» and highlighted the key role of European funds in the city's evolution.
“"Spain's accession to the European Union was an essential event for economic, social, and human progress."
Prieto recalled that Gandia has benefited from numerous community programs, from the first urban regeneration actions in the promenade and the historic center to the current Next Generation funds. These have allowed the promotion of 27 projects in areas such as mobility, public spaces, sustainable tourism, and neighborhood rehabilitation, with a total investment of 26 million euros.
Director General Raquel Aguado stressed the need to bring Europe closer to citizens, noting that the European Union is a jointly built project that has fostered economic development, international openness, and the strengthening of the welfare state. Similarly, regional secretary Carlos Gil highlighted the transformation experienced by Spain since its accession, with significant advances in infrastructure, sustainability, and territorial cohesion, defending the European Union as a shared project that reinforces common identity.
The exhibition will remain open to the public as a space for reflection on the past, present, and future of Europe, with special attention to its impact at the local level.
