In the evening, the photo exhibition "Introducing Saarland" was opened in the European Parliament in Strasbourg. Parliament staff and visitors were able to get a picture of the "most European" of all federal states in the parliament's exhibition area.

The opening ceremony was hosted by Manuela Ripa (ÖDP), Member of the European Parliament, in cooperation with the Saarland state government and the Saarland Tourist Board. Around 20 photos show natural and protected landscapes, such as the Bliesgau biosphere reserve, the varied gastronomy and the cultural heritage of the region. 

In her opening speech, host Manuela Ripa pointed out that Saarland is not only one of the greenest federal states - after all, one third of its surface area is covered in forest - but also the greenest in Europe:

"Saarland lies between the three locations of the European Parliament, between Brussels, Luxembourg and Strasbourg. When commuting between Brussels and Strasbourg, MEPs and parliamentary staff should stop off here in Saarland more often. After all, we are a unique region both in terms of tourism and history. And with the UNESCO biosphere reserve, we have a model region for sustainable tourism in the south-east of Saarland."

Saarland Minister of Economic Affairs Jürgen Barke, who was unfortunately unable to attend in person and was represented at the opening by the responsible department head Dr. Anselm Römer, is looking forward to welcoming many guests to Saarland:

"Saarland is the perfect destination for short trips in the border triangle. As a tourist region, we score points not only with our breathtaking nature, exciting cultural events or our excellent cuisine. Our warm and cosmopolitan hospitality is particularly impressive. I warmly invite all guests from France, Luxembourg and beyond to enjoy relaxing days full of boundless experiences in Saarland."

Luxembourg MEP Tilly Metz and Alsace MEP Anne Sander were invited as representatives of the neighboring regions and also addressed the participants. Saarland is part of the European Region, which comprises 4 countries. In her speech, Manuela Ripa emphasized the special situation of the cross-border region:

"Crossing borders is an essential part of Saarland's identity. Saarland is part of the Greater Region, with Lorraine, Luxembourg, Belgian Wallonia and Rhineland-Palatinate. This European heartland has 11.6 million inhabitants and the idea of Europe is lived here every day! I can only invite you to come to my home region to get an impression and enjoy the beauty of the region."

Organic Saarland wines were poured and finger food served at the opening ceremony. The participants were also allowed to take a piece of Saarland home with them: Small giveaways and Saarland Schogetten chocolate were distributed. 

The photo exhibition in the European Parliament can be seen until this Thursday, February 8.