A border region without barriers, where residents can live, work, and study. Where entrepreneurs seize opportunities across borders and where diplomas know no boundaries. This is the shared ambition of the province of Drenthe and the municipalities of Emmen and Coevorden. Both municipalities and the province renewed their Germany policy in 2025. On October 3, they presented their joint goals and ambitions in Coevorden.
A Symbolic Day in Coevorden
The presentation is not coincidentally on October 3, the Day of German Unity. It is a day that revolves around connection and thus it is a fitting moment to pause and reflect on cross-border cooperation. Mayor Renze Bergsma of the municipality of Coevorden, deputy Henk Jumelet of the province, and alderman Raymond Wanders of the municipality of Emmen presented their Germany agendas to those who benefit the most: residents, businesses, and educational institutions.
Neighborhood as a Foundation
Deputy Henk Jumelet: The cooperation with Germany takes shape in Drenthe from neighborhood ties. We not only work together as governments, but we also seek connection with partners in the province, with our neighboring municipalities, and of course with the German border region. Whether it is about mobility, education, economic opportunities, or energy: time and again it becomes clear that we have similar interests on both sides of the border. By working together on challenges and solutions, we stand stronger.
With the renewed Germany agendas, the province of Drenthe, and the municipalities of Emmen and Coevorden take the next step to see borders not as dividing lines, but as bridges to new opportunities.
More information can be found on the Third Drenthe Germany Agenda (refers to another website).
