Over five editions of the Congress (2020–2025), more than 5,000 participants from 24 countries have taken part, 104 discussion panels have been held, and 64 foreign delegations have visited Lublin. The scale and international character of the event confirm its increasing role in shaping dialogue across the Three Seas region.

We, the countries representing Central and Eastern Europe (…) through the Three Seas Initiative, Via Baltica, and Via Carpatia, share not only our voice and vision of building a civic community, but also tangible results showing that the Baltic States and the countries of Central and Eastern Europe are capable of implementing major infrastructure projects, emphasised President Karol Nawrocki during his visit to Vilnius last month.

These words perfectly capture the spirit of the Three Seas Congress, which brings together political, academic, and business communities around a shared goal, building a strong, integrated, and cooperative Central and Eastern Europe.

It is also worth noting that in April 2025, Poland hosted the 10th Three Seas Initiative Summit. During the event, participants emphasised the importance of infrastructure and economic cooperation in the region and the need to strengthen cohesion across Central and Eastern Europe. This year, the cooperation format has been expanded to include new members - Albania and Montenegro joined the Three Seas Initiative in the capacity of associated participating states, while Spain and Turkey became new strategic partners. It has already been announced that the 11th Summit will take place in Croatia in 2026.

As part of the conference, two thematic discussion panels were held. Panel I: Scientific Cooperation and Parliamentary Diplomacy in the Three Seas Region. The panel outlined the prospects for cooperation between universities in the Three Seas Initiative, with particular emphasis on opportunities for academic exchange and joint research programmes addressing shared cultural, political and religious heritage, as well as possibilities for economic and military cooperation. The issue of involving scientists from various fields and scientific disciplines was discussed, as well as the prospects of using research to implement plans for cooperation between the Three Seas countries in various areas. Another topic concerned the position of EU institutions (including the European Parliament), as well as the largest EU member states, toward the Three Seas Initiative. Possible areas of cooperation and contentious issues (the green deal, relations with the US, models of European integration) were discussed. The panel was attended by His Excellency Mr Josip Paro, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Croatia to the Kingdom of Belgium, Her Excellency Ms Daniela Morari, Ambassador, Head of Mission of the Republic of Moldova to the European Union, Mr Serhiy Tereshko, Deputy Head of Mission of Ukraine to the European Union, Mr Arkadiusz Mularczyk, Member of the European Parliament, Mr Moray Gilland, representative of the European Commission, Directorate-General for Regional and Urban Policy, and Prof. Agnieszka Orzelska-Stączek from the Institute of Political Studies of the Polish Academy of Sciences.

The second panel, Regional Cooperation in the Three Seas Initiative – from concept to practice, was focused on the role of local governments in the development of the Three Seas Initiative (3SI), a flagship regional project aimed at building cross-border infrastructure and improving connectivity and integration in the region. The panel addressed the progress and accomplishments of the 3SI thus far, the construction of the Via Carpatia expressway and its significance for the regions. In addition, ideas were presented for new areas of enhanced cooperation within the 3SI, such as improving infrastructure — used for development purposes as well as military mobility, logistics, and humanitarian aid — and exploring the potential for closer alignment of Ukrainian regions with the Initiative. The panel featured contributions from representatives of the following regions: Mr Jarosław Stawiarski, Marshal of the Lubelskie Voivodeship, Mr Milan Majersky, President of the Prešov Self-Governing Region (Slovakia), Ms Violeta Labazyuk, Head of the Khmelnytskyi Regional Council (Ukraine), Ms Małgorzata Jarosińska-Jedynak, Member of the Board of the Podkarpackie Voivodeship. Dr Konrad Popławski moderated the discussion from the Centre for Eastern Studies.

Since the formal establishment of the Network of the Three Seas Regions in 2021, 28 regional authorities from eight countries have been actively engaged in close cooperation. Our current priorities include enhancing economic development along the North - South axis near the eastern border of the European Union - a region increasingly at risk of marginalization due to the ongoing war beyond its borders. The strategic economic importance of this area is underscored by the fact that the 13 member states of the Three Seas Initiative represent over one quarter of the EU’s population, comprising 120 million citizens and a highly skilled workforce. Another key issue is the improvement of transport capacity and infrastructure along the eastern border of the European Union, particularly in relation to the strategically important Via Carpatia route and its connecting corridors leading to Ukraine and Moldova. The region serves as the 'Eastern Gateway' of the European Union, which is why both transport and social infrastructure are regarded not only as drivers of economic development, but also as essential components of security — not just for Central and Eastern Europe, but for the EU as a whole.

We are meeting today to celebrate the tenth anniversary of the Three Seas Initiative, an initiative that arose from the need for deeper integration, primarily economic and infrastructural, in our part of Europe—Central Europe, said the Polish president during the opening session of the Summit.

The format is now a decade old and the Three Seas Initiative has strengthened its function as one of the important tools for strengthening transatlantic relations in both the political and economic dimensions.

At the same time - as Andrzej Duda emphasised - as a project of the countries belonging to the European community, the Three Seas Initiative - also through actions aimed at deepening Euro-Atlantic relations – enriches and strengthens the European Union.

At present, the Three Seas Initiative comprises 140 priority projects, two investment funds and another in the design phase, as well as an extensive network of partnerships and many bottom-up initiatives covering regional, scientific and economic cooperation. Among the most important from the perspective of the strategic interests of the Republic of Poland are: gas interconnectors with Lithuania and Slovakia, the Via Carpatia expressway, the rail corridor of the TEN-T Baltic-Adriatic core network, Rail-2-Sea - rail connection between the ports of Gdansk and Constanta.

The summit was attended by:

• Rumen Radev, President of the Republic of Bulgaria; 
• Gitanas Nausėda, President of the Republic of Lithuania;
• Alar Karis, President of the Republic of Estonia;
• Bajram Begaj, President of the Republic of Albania;
• Petr Pavel, President of the Czech Republic;
• Jakov Milatović, President of Montenegro;
• Edgars Rinkēvičs, President of the Republic of Latvia;
• Tamás Sulyok, President of Hungary;
• Peter Pellegrini, President of the Slovak Republic;
• Ilie Bolojan, acting President of Romania;
• Andrej Plenković, Prime Minister of the Republic of Croatia;
• Vladimir Bolea, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Infrastructure and Regional Development of the Republic of Moldova;
• Oleksii Kuleba, Deputy Prime Minister for Restoration of Ukraine;
• Georgios Gerapetritis, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Hellenic Republic;
• Alenka Bratušek, Minister of Infrastructure of the Republic of Slovenia;
• Abdülkadir Uraloğlu, Minister of Transport and Infrastructure of the Republic of Türkiye;
• Nikolaus Marschik, Secretary–General and Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Austria;
• Fernando Sampedro Marcos, Secretary of State for the European Union in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation of Spain;
• Tommy Joyce, Acting Assistant Secretary for the Office of International Affairs at the US Department of Energy;
• Viktor Elbling, Ambassador of Germany to Poland;
• Akira Kono, Ambassador of Japan to Poland;
• Cristina Lobillo Borrero, Head of Energy Platform Task Force in the Directorate–General for Energy of the European Commission.
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky connected with the participants online.

In the afternoon, President Andrzej Duda, at a joint press conference with Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda and Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković, summed up the meeting of heads of state and government at the 10th Summit of the Three Seas Initiative. Discussions focused on future investments within the 3SI co–operation format, including the development of energy and transport infrastructure, as well as security issues for the countries in our region.

This year the cooperation format has been expanded to include new members - Albania and Montenegro joined the Three Seas Initiative in the capacity of associated participating states, while Spain and Turkey became new strategic partners.

The Summit was accompanied by a Business Forum

Joint Declaration of the 10th Summit of the Three Seas Initiative

Courtesy of: Chancellery of the President of the Republic of Poland (https://www.president.pl/news/the-10th-three-seas-initiative-summit,100917)

In opening Agata Dziubińska-Gawlik, President of the European Meeting Centre – Nowy Staw Foundation, emphasised that ‘we are responsible for the development of young talents and the Eastern Congress is an inspiration for young people and their development’.

On the first panel, young people had the opportunity to delve into the topic of International Meeting Centres, which play an important role in building intercultural dialogue and civil society.

Managing Director and Member of the Board of the "Krzyżowa" Foundation for European Understanding, Dr. Robert Żurek, pointed out that young people are very similar to each other, despite coming from different countries. Shorena Barbakadze, General Director of the International Language House, associate professor at Akaki Tsereteli State University in Georgia, emphasized that "The effects of international exchanges are social and personal skills, creativity, as well as the development of innovations, including technological ones."

During the second panel, participants learned about two perspectives: students’ and employers’ on combining studies and work, opportunities and challenges faced by students. In this panel, the employers' side was represented by, among others, Łukasz Stachowiak | Manager at PwC Polska, Andrii Myrovych, Team Leader PwC Polska and Magdalena Siroń, Coordinator of the Career Planning Center, University of Entrepreneurship and Administration in Lublin. The invited guests emphasized that it is worth combining studies and work. Each activity shown in the CV is to the advantage of the candidate and increases their chance of getting their dream job.

During the panel entitled "Creativity without filter - how to create content and take care of yourself on social media", participants stressed the importance of authenticity on social media, but also the need to set boundaries and take care of mental health. It is important to distinguish between constructive criticism and hate speech. Panellists highlighted the problem of FOMO and the need to find a balance between online and offline life. It was pointed out that social media can support creativity and development, but also be a source of pressure. Therefore, it is important to build a conscious approach to their use and content creation.

On the second day, young participants had the opportunity to take part in panels ‘Polish Presidency of the Council of the European Union. The role of young people in building a safe Europe' and “#factorfake - effective tools in the fight against fake news”.

The Congress was a great opportunity for young people to gain new experience, meet new people and learn about employer expectations.

The Three Seas Congress is one of the most important events dedicated to local government cooperation, bringing together representatives of government and local administration, as well as the academic and business sectors from the Three Seas Initiative countries. Between 2020 and 2024, four editions of this prestigious event took place. It serves as a platform for ongoing discussions and agreements among local governments focusing on flagship Three Seas investments, such as the Via Carpatia route and the Three Seas Regions Network, established in Lublin. The Congress is held under the Honorary Patronage of the President of Poland, Andrzej Duda.





The panel discussion featured representatives of the authorities from five partner regions of the Lubelskie Voivodeship. The panel’s objective was to present experiences and best practices while identifying shared interests and benefits arising from regional efforts in strengthening the European Union’s security. Energy security is closely linked to consumer demand for fuel and energy. The ability to ensure a continuous supply of energy at low costs is one of the fundamental conditions for economic growth and societal well-being.

Experience to date shows that interconnected energy systems with autonomous balancing areas, which are already mutually interacting and providing reserves, serve as a strong unifying factor within the European Union. Effective solutions and regional energy policies during the EU’s energy transition should serve as a model and a priority for cooperation. This presents a significant potential for interregional collaboration, which forms the local and regional governance component of the Three Seas Initiative.



The aim of this panel was to identify areas of cooperation between EU regions and Ukrainian regions on Ukraine’s path to EU membership and to explore how European regions can support Ukrainian regions in the integration process. The partnership between regions has taken on particular importance, especially now, in light of the ongoing war in Ukraine, as well as in the context of Ukraine being granted EU candidate status on June 23, 2022, during the European Council summit in Brussels. The European Union’s support for Ukraine’s accession process is not only an expression of solidarity but also an investment in regional stability and security.



Following the second panel, agreements were signed between municipalities from the Lubelskie Voivodeship and Khmelnytskyi Oblast. The partnership cooperation between the Lubelskie Voivodeship and the Khmelnytskyi Regional Council was made possible through the initiative of Marshal Jarosław Stawiarski and Head of oblast Wioleta Labaziuk. A letter of intent between the two regions was signed on December 12, 2023.

This cooperation has also created favourable conditions for establishing local government partnerships between municipalities from the Lubelskie Voivodeship and Khmelnytskyi Oblast. The following agreements were signed: - Zhvanetska Territorial Community with Hrubieszów Municipality - Narkevytska Territorial Community with Kraśnik Municipality - Krupetska Territorial Community with Tarnawatka Municipality





In the previous edition of the Congress, the Cultural Debate titled “Culture – Building Bridges Between Nations” played a significant role. The discussion focused on cultural projects that bridge national, linguistic, religious, and ideological differences, as well as on culture as a tool for regional and economic development, including tourism and business cooperation. Additionally, the debate explored culture as a pillar of identity for emigrant communities and as an instrument for promoting national traditions among other societies.

This year’s panel, in turn, examined culture as a means of promoting the region, particularly through cooperation with local governments. Panelists also presented their own ideas on how institutions can promote culture to attract younger audiences.



The cooperation within a network of open-air museums from Three Seas countries presents a great opportunity to promote cultural heritage, exchange experiences, and engage in joint promotional efforts. Open-air museums serve as living history sites that preserve traditions and national identity, strengthening regional cooperation. Panelists discussed how public perception of open-air museums has changed over the years, as well as the shift in target audiences. The discussion covered modern technological solutions, accessibility for people with disabilities, and the formalization of a Skansen Route to extend cultural engagement beyond local communities.





The Economic Forum featured panels on the internationalization of Lubelskie-based businesses, multimodal transport (cargo airports, rail, and the Via Carpatia route), and the latest innovations in nuclear energy. Business representatives had access to a B2B networking zone and exhibition stands. The participants of the event were greeted by the Marshal of the Lubelskie Voivodeship, Jarosław Stawiarski:

-The Economic Forum complements the main Three Seas Initiative by fostering discussions on increasing integration among member states. The Three Seas formula proves that we can achieve more together. The forum shows small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) how to support one another, learn from best practices, and scale their businesses locally and globally. The growth of SMEs is the driving force behind regional development. In Lubelskie, we focus on supporting SMEs and helping them expand beyond the region – Marshal of the Lubelskie Voivodeship Jarosław Stawiarski.

Speech by MP and Former Polish Prime Minister, Mateusz Morawiecki:

-The Three Seas Congress is an exceptional and necessary event that allows for a deeper reflection on the initiative at the local government level. Ensuring the security of European countries, particularly Eastern Europe, is now a priority. The geopolitical shifts we are witnessing call for a renewed focus on a north-south axis of cooperation. With economic pressures from the West and China, and security threats from Russia, European nations must adopt a new strategic perspective. The Three Seas Initiative, promoted since the beginning of President Andrzej Duda’s term, is a crucial economic and security framework for the entire continent.

A new economic initiative was launched in the Lubelskie Voivodeship, with Marshal Jarosław Stawiarski and MP Mateusz Morawiecki presenting nominations to the Lubelskie Voivodeship Economic Council. This council will provide expert guidance on regional economic development, innovation, and public-private collaboration.

Appointed Members: Dr. hab. inż. Konrad Gromaszek, Lublin University of Technology, Dr. hab. Piotr Zacharczuk, John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin, Aleksander Batorski, Lublin Conference Center, Tomasz Pitucha, Voivodeship Labor Office, Marek Neckier, Lublin Agency for Entrepreneurship Support, Rafał Langiewicz, Lublin Regional Development Fund, Magdalena Stachyra, Lublin Science and Technology Park, Grzegorz Sobolewski, Puławy Science and Technology Park, Marcin Kowalewski, Lublin Airport, Marcin Wiczuk, Bank Gospodarstwa Krajowego, Dariusz Jedlina, Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Magdalena Czelej, DAREX Shirt Manufacturer, Przemysław Chabior, FUNPARK Sp. z o.o., Daniel Ciupak, Janex Polish Grain Producer Sp. z o.o., Piotr Kalinowski, Kabako Gruppe Sp. z o.o., Mateusz Kozłowski, ERKADO Sp. z o.o., Dariusz Jeleniewski, Spiżarnia Sp.z o.o, Grażyna Skubik, Stal-Tech Sp. z o.o., Wiesław Czarnecki, Elpar Cable Factory.



The seminar was held to discuss challenges and opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Lubelskie aiming for international expansion. Panelists shared strategies for entering foreign markets, tools for export growth, and available support from regional and national institutions. The session also facilitated experience-sharing among entrepreneurs to strengthen global competitiveness.



Multimodal transport integrating road, rail and air transport, is crucial for economic development of Central and Eastern Europe. An efficient transport network enables shorter delivery times, reduced logistic costs and higher investment attractiveness of the region. Given the growing demand foe efficient freight transport and the EU’s climate requirements, improving the integration of different transport modes is essential. The discussion focused on the development multimodal transport, including the completion of key investments such as Via Carpatia – an international transport corridor connecting the north and south of Europe. Its implementation will streamline the flow of goods and strengthen economic cooperation among the Three Seas countries.



In the face of growing economic challenges and increasing energy demand it is essential to seek stabile, secure and sustainable energy sources. Nuclear energy with its ability to generate large amounts of power while minimizing environmental impact, is becoming a key component of many countries’ energy strategies.



The Scientific Session began with the signing of an agreement between the Lubelskie Voivodeship and Nicolaus Copernicus University for collaboration on a project titled “Suicidology – Analysis of Knowledge and Educational Campaign”. The initiative aims to raise awareness about youth suicide prevention and develop educational programs addressing this issue.

Panels: - Panel I: Development challenges of the Three Seas Regions in the context of cooperation and threats in relations with the US, Russia and China - Panel II: Opportunities and barriers in cooperation between public and socio-economic entities on international projects - Panel III: Energy security and Three Seas cooperation in the context of access to natural resources - Panel IV: Historical and Cultural Heritage and Identity of the Three Seas Initiative Region



The Eastern Congress of Young Leaders is organised by European Meeting Centre - Nowy Staw Foundation. The event was inaugurated by PM and Former Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki. It is and accompanying event of the Three Seas Local Government Congress. The goal of this event is to prepare young people to engage in discissions about the future of Poland, Europe and the World. The event aims to confront theoretical knowledge with real-world problems. During this event young participants witness the establishment of cooperation among organisations from various European countries.



The 5th Three Seas Local Government Congress hosted 1,500 participants from 29 countries, including 20 delegations led by regional leaders. A total of 187 speakers participated in 32 discussion panels.

Key agreements signed:

- Establishment of the Three Seas Tourism Network

- Admission of a Moldovan region to the Network of the Three Seas Regions

- Declaration on Partnership and Cooperation of the Members of the Network of the Three Seas Regions for supporting the preparation and construction of the international transport corridor Via Carpatia

- Expansion of the Three Seas University Network