The border with Portugal is close by and the synergies and shared perspectives with regards to the natural and cultural heritage in these European Union territories are easy to identify. They underpin INTERREG JARCULTUR, the cross-border project that was launched in 2019. It seeks to promote cooperation and the shared identities of Béjar Forest and Mata do Bussaco historical gardens in Portugal, given that the two have a lot in common.

Objective 6.C of the INTERREG programme states this clearly:

Protect and enhance cultural and natural heritage as a resource for economic development in the cross-border region

Given their nature, environmental issues have been the opening area for the development of cross-border activities. Environmental risks know no frontiers and a strategic approach to them must be taken from both sides of the border.

In addition, progressive economic development goes hand in hand with decisive action and impacts that put the environment at risk. Therefore, Europe 2020 Strategy has not only set an objective of intelligent growth, but also one of sustainable growth.

There are vital riches in the landscapes, history, culture and, above all, nature in the Territorial Cooperation area and these are some of its main advantages. But this heritage means that shared cross-border solutions must be found for the dangers and risks faced precisely by these riches. It should be pointed out that, with this in mind, the Territorial Cooperation area presents significant economic specialisation in activities that are intense in use of natural resources, in addition to a series of economic activities linked to the construction industry, that have a significant impact and generate serious challenges in terms of biodiversity, soil quality and natural ecosystems.

Conserving, protecting and preserving this important cultural and natural heritage is of vital importance, for their scenic and artistic value, and as a source of resources and factors on which to base local economic development strategies that seek to promote competitiveness in the European Economic Area.