The Danube as the factor of physical integration of Serbia and Europe

Abstract

In Europe the Danube is today a first class natural and integrative measure. Thus it has become the subject of special attention and the topic of numerous plans, studies and analyses. In Serbia the Danube is seen as an opportunity for joining into contemporary European flows. The first step is cross-border cooperation with neighbouring regions in Danubian countries. Development and protection of the river are the basis for integral planning and common activities, which in time has to expand into trans-regional and trans-national cooperation, all leading to integral plans for the entire river course. In view of the fact that a substantial part of the Danube passes through Serbia (588 km), its inclusion in all development processes that lead to progress of the entire national territory is completely logical, whereby European experiences and positive domestic practice should be put to use.

Keywords

• cross-border cooperation
• Danube river
• integral development
• physical planning