A look back at the EMRIC anniversary meeting

Last week, the anniversary meeting of EMRIC took place at the MECC Maastricht, which was attended by an impressive number of representatives of the blue light organisations from the Euregio Meuse-Rhine. The event not only highlighted the milestones that the co-operation network has achieved over the past decades, but also provided a valuable platform for networking.

During the meeting, EMRIC celebrated 50 years of cross-border cooperation, 25 years of its intensification and 10 years of EMRIC as we know it today. In addition to inspiring speeches and a look back at the history, there was also room for informal discussions and getting to know each other's equipment, which was available in large numbers. The wide range of participants and informal atmosphere emphasised the strength of cooperation in this unique region.

There was a special moment for Frank Klaassen, the outgoing chairman of the Eumed focus group, who was put in the spotlight during the meeting with a well-deserved surprise to thank him for his years of dedication and valuable contribution to cross-border cooperation.

The reactions of those present were extremely positive. Many participants expressed their appreciation for the content of the day and emphasised how important it was to meet colleagues from across the border in person. The informal setting facilitated new contacts and insights and strengthened the feeling of solidarity and co-operation. EMRIC looks back with pride on what has been achieved and looks to the future with confidence.

Many thanks to Feuerwehrfotografie -Bilderzoom Aachen- for the photos.

The speech below was given by Jörg Brokmann to thank Frank Klaassen for his years of commitment to EMRIC and Eumed.

Hello everyone,

Dear attendees,

Today, we are gathered also to honor and celebrate someone who has been the heart and backbone of our European / euregional emergency rescue service organization. I mean for sure EMRIC/EUMED.

Frank Klaassen has been the face of our organization for many years.

Your years of dedication have left an incredible mark—not just on this organization, also on our small region where he has touched countless lives. Under your guidance, we have grown stronger, more capable, and more united in our mission to serve others in their most critical moments.

Your leadership has been a beacon of strength, your dedication a source of inspiration, and your unwavering commitment a reminder of what it truly means to lead with purpose and heart. Whether in the midst of challenging situations or in shaping the vision of this organization, you have always stood firm and given your all.

On behalf of everyone here, I would like to thank you for your extraordinary contributions, your wisdom, and your passion. The legacy you leave behind is one of excellence, compassion, and service—a legacy that Giulia, Oliver and me  will carry on with pride.

Thank you for everything, Frank.

You will always be a cherished part of this organization.