"They are so-called stepping stones for biodiversity and climate protection and prove that we need close cooperation - especially here in Europe," said District Administrator Haas. The 780-square-kilometre Tápió area is located in the partner region of Pest County, 70 kilometers east of Budapest, and is characterized by a varied landscape, rich flora and fauna and an internationally important bird breeding area. The non-profit Tápió Foundation, of which the district of Ludwigsburg has been a member since its foundation in 1997, has made a significant contribution to the establishment of a nature park in the Tápió region. In his welcoming address, District Administrator Haas described the Tápió nature conservation project as a "prime example of constructive cooperation between local authorities across national borders". Thanks to the joint work within the Tápió Foundation, new nature reserves have already been designated in the past, the nature conservation center in Farmos has been built and a youth hostel for school groups has been established, said the head of the district administration. "I am delighted that the district of Ludwigsburg was able to make a contribution to the new nature park by donating 5,000 euros and I hope that the title of nature park will open up new opportunities and funding possibilities for the Tápió area," said District Administrator Haas at the ceremony.
The Tápió Foundation, a joint initiative of the Hungarian nature conservation volunteers, the Tápió municipalities, Pest County and Ludwigsburg District, was founded in 1997. Friendly relations between the two regions have existed since 1992, and the partnership was officially sealed in 2000. The exchange is based on joint specialist seminars and projects on social and environmental protection issues, with a focus on youth exchange programs.
