This visit marks a strong commitment towards the recognition of the Pyrenean Park of the Three Nations as a cross-border Biosphere Reserve. The delegation, comprising Anne-Caroline Prévot, President of MAB France, and Alice Roth, Director of MAB France, was accompanied by key Park representatives, including Jean-Paul Rouquier, Vice-President in charge of the Pyrenean Park of the Three Nations, and Thierry Portet, Vice-President responsible for the Biosphere Reserve project.
The meeting showcased the diverse actions undertaken by the Park and its partners, covering the preservation of natural spaces, scientific research, local transitions, youth engagement, and cross-border cooperation. These discussions highlighted the territory's richness and the relevance of the application project.
Iconic sites such as the Lers pond and the Volp basin were explored, emphasizing the challenges of preserving biodiversity, geodiversity, and the management of natural site visitor numbers. The strong protection zone project and the Mountain Mediators program were discussed.
The scientific dimension was reinforced by a visit to the experimental station of the CNRS – SETE in Moulis, attended by Olivier Guillaume, Deputy Director. Links with the Park's Scientific Council and the National Nature Reserve project were discussed, underscoring the connection between scientific knowledge and the protection of natural environments.
The application also fits into a dynamic of an inhabited territory, with meetings held in Saint-Girons and at the Ferme d’Icart, the Park's headquarters. These encounters addressed the transition projects of municipalities and inter-municipalities, as well as the role of the Pyrenean Park of the Three Nations in cross-border cooperation.
Youth play a crucial role in this project. At the Youth Hub of Agglo Foix Varilhes, discussions took place with Michel Tartie, President of the Agglomeration, and representatives of youth organizations, focusing on actions for young people and the MAB Youth program.
The timeline includes submitting the application to MAB France in the summer of 2027, with UNESCO recognition expected in 2028. The cross-border initiative with Andorran and Catalan partners is slated to launch from 2029 onwards.
