The Heads of State of the SEE countries declared that the historical links and axes of inter-cultural dialogue and exchange of ideas, beliefs, knowledge and skills, as well as cultural goods and expressions, have given rise to a unique network of cultural corridors and cultural routes in South-East Europe. In their "Varna Declaration", they argue that these cultural corridors deserve to be identified, preserved, and promoted. They committed themselves to set up a Regional Network which would help develop a conceptual and operational strategy for these "cultural corridors" in cooperation with the European Institute of Cultural Routes. It recommends the development of an Action Plan aimed at the creation of integrated regional policies and actions to promote and protect cultural heritage at risk within the region.