Overview
- Iñigo Urkullu, former Basque lehendakari, has formally introduced the Fundación eAtlantic, aiming to create an EU-recognized Atlantic macro-region spanning Portugal to Aquitaine.
- The foundation, backed by major Basque companies including Iberdrola, BBVA, Kutxabank, and Petronor, seeks to align Atlantic regional interests with EU priorities.
- Urkullu emphasized complementarity with current lehendakari Imanol Pradales, distancing himself from political ambitions while awaiting formal clearance to assume his non-executive role.
- eAtlantic plans to mobilize public and private stakeholders across Iberia, France, and beyond, including potential support from Ireland, Wales, and the UK.
- Initial efforts will focus on implementing expert recommendations in Euskadi and lobbying for enhanced Atlantic regional integration within the EU framework.