MaasMeuse

MaasMeuse is a transboundary regional concept that links communities along the Maas (Meuse) river corridor in the Netherlands and Belgium. It functions as a framework for coordinated planning in water management, transport, economy, and culture.

Geographically, MaasMeuse covers parts of Dutch Limburg and Belgian Limburg along the river, extending from the southern Netherlands near Maastricht and Venlo to Belgian towns along the Meuse such as Liège and Namur. The corridor includes urban centers, floodplains, and areas of industrial heritage.

History and purpose: The term arose from cross-border cooperation programs to address shared challenges such as water safety, flood protection, sustainable development, and tourism. MaasMeuse aims to align regional planning, river management (including flood control), and mobility across borders.

Economy and culture: The region supports cross-border commerce, logistics, cycling and river tourism, and conservation projects. Cultural heritage along the Meuse, including forts, historic towns, and landscape parks, is a focal point for marketing and educational programs.

Governance: MaasMeuse operates as a cooperative network rather than a single authority, with participation from provincial and municipal authorities, water boards, and regional development agencies. Implementation relies on joint studies, funding from European programs, and pilot projects.