The Secure and Effective Borders in the Carpathian Region project (HUSKROUA/23/S/3.2/018) is enhancing Ukraine–Hungary cross-border cooperation by improving border management, security and operational efficiency. Implemented by Ukrainian and Hungarian partners, the project supports the alignment of border and customs procedures with EU standards while fostering long-term institutional cooperation.
Improving coordination and infrastructure planning
Launched in February 2025, the project addresses key challenges related to border control, including lengthy procedures, infrastructure gaps and the need for closer coordination between authorities. Activities focus on feasibility studies for modernising border crossing infrastructure, harmonising customs and border services, and to facliltate the coordinated developing of the preliminary documentation of enhanced infrastructure for crossing the Ukrainian-Hungarian state border at the Kosyno–Barabash checkpoint.
Through comparative legal analysis, expert meetings and professional exchanges, the project contributes to reducing waiting times, improving control procedures and strengthening security along the border.
Joint roundtable and study visit: sharing expertise in practice
An important milestone was reached on 3–4 December 2025, when a joint Ukrainian–Hungarian roundtable meeting was organised within the framework of the project. Experts, diplomats and officials from both countries gathered to discuss practical solutions for safer and more efficient border management.
On the first day, participants took part in a study visit to the East–West Gate (EWG) intermodal terminal, located at the Hungarian–Ukrainian border where standard and broad-gauge railway lines meet. As one of the largest and most modern intermodal terminals in Europe, EWG showcased advanced freight management technologies, including digital monitoring systems and automated cranes. The visit provided first-hand insight into innovative logistics solutions that can support faster and more secure cross-border operations.
Dialogue on future border solutions
During the roundtable discussions held in Nyíregyháza, participants addressed key topics such as joint border control and inspection models, training of customs and border personnel, access roads leading to border crossings, modernisation of existing checkpoints, and the opening of new border crossings.
Local authorities, regional experts and institutional representatives had the opportunity to exchange perspectives and identify concrete steps for future cooperation.
Why it matters:
Secure Borders strengthens trust, efficiency and security at the Ukrainian–Hungarian border by combining practical cooperation, modern solutions and shared expertise — contributing to safer mobility and stronger cross-border connections.
More information about the project is available on the Programme website:
