On 22 July 2005, the Flemish Government took the decision of principle to set up the Liaison agency Flanders-Europe (vleva. The initiative is intended to lead to a more positive Flemish presence at European policy level and to a better promotion of Flemish interests. The agency also has the task of informing Flemish companies and civil society and the Flemish authorities (regional and local) as effectively as possible about European dossiers and financing opportunities.
The framework involves entering the broad socio-economic, socio-cultural and scientific field as strongly as possible via a public-private alliance. With further European integration and the current and possible future EU expansion, Flanders has every interest in playing a role in European decision-making. A liaison agency also facilitates better cooperation with representatives of other member states and regions.
