In the course of the last ten years the "Alliance in the Alps" has become increasingly important and has acquired growing political influence in fields that are relevant for the Alpine region. The local authority network has played an active role in promoting the implementation of the Alpine Convention at the community and inter-community levels. Today the Alliance in the Alps helps to preserve and improve the quality of life for the resident populations of the Alps.

Since its foundation, the network has also made progress on the long road to sustainable development in the Alps. The membership now totals 230 local authorities, representing 4.5 % of the Alpine population and 5.2 % of the area. In just one decade the members have developed a common Alpine identity and vision that respects the cultural and linguistic diversity of the Alps. This has been achieved primarily through the regular exchange of information and experience among the member communities, numerous international events, joint publications and specific projects. A solid basis has accordingly been created for future co-operation.

In those ten years the network of municipalities "Alliance in the Alps" has become a familiar name not just within but also beyond the Alpine region. Among other things, the network initiated the establishment of and provided support for the Alliance of Central Asian Mountain Communities.

In 2007 the "Alliance in the Alps" is celebrating its tenth anniversary with numerous events in all the Alpine countries. The first celebration will be held on 30 March in Bovec/Sl as the cradle of the network. That will be followed by various events in France, Liechtenstein, Italy, Germany and Switzerland. The anniversary programme culminates in the annual general meeting in Schruns/A on 18 - 20 October 2007.

Mäder, 22 March 2007