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Because of its geographical position, the county of Kent
has always had a special relationship with the European
mainland.
In Kent we are determined to continue to maximise the
opportunities offered by our county's position as the UK gateway to
mainland Europe. The enlargement of the European Union with a total
of 27 member states offers unique opportunities for working
together, for extending trade and tourism, and other joint work for
our mutual benefit.
Kent County Council opened a permanent office for Kent in
Brussels as early as 1991. Today, the Kent Brussels office
continues to provide a valuable base for Kent County Council,
district councils, universities, plus community and business
organisations. This enables effective and co-ordinated lobbying at
the heart of the European institutions.
Kent European Partnership
The purpose of the
Kent European Partnership is to give businesses and
organisations the best possible access to our growing network of
partners, and our wealth of resources and expertise.
Policy Advice
It is estimated that 50% of domestic legislation originates, or
is linked to, EU legislation. It is therefore vitally important to
be aware of EU policies and particularly future trends. Being aware
of and being able to react to changes in
EU policy is a key factor for an organisation that wishes to be
strategically placed to benefit from EU policies. This may be
gaining and sharing best practice in a specific area or bidding for
EU funding.
International Affairs Group
The International Affairs Group (IAG) is located in County Hall,
Maidstone but also operates from a European office in Brussels.
Kent Brussels Office
Located in the European quarter in Brussels, the
Kent Brussels Office provides members of the Kent European
Partnership scheme and Kent County Council with a strategic gateway
to policy-makers and decision-makers in the
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