The operation ICNW-International Communal Network focuses on the exchange of experience and promotion of best practice with regard to the development of rural municipalities and a corresponding transfer of know-how to new Member States and Accession Countries. The project aims to establish international co-operation and synergies between rural municipalities and regional communal institutions in the fields of Development Strategies for Municipalities and Land Use Planning, Communal Infrastructure in Rural Municipalities and Municipality and Economy in Rural Areas. Overall objective / Objectif général The overall objective of the operation is to improve the effectiveness of policies and instruments for local and regional development and cohesion in rural areas through the exchange of information and experience. More specifically, the operation wants to support rural municipalities in developing local strategies and land use planning and embedding these into planning concepts beyond the local dimension. Further aims are to support infrastructure investments (e.g. water, waste water and waste disposal) through providing know-how on technical, organisational and financial solutions (e.g. cost sharing and PPP models, etc.) and the improvement of SME-related and economic development policies and measures. Expected results / Résultats attendus The operation will result in the strengthening of the strategic development capacities of network partners, mostly local authority associations, who will act as relay stations for their member municipalities, to which they will disseminate acquired know-how. Authorities will benefit by learning how to build and project an attractive and competitive image involving the local population and entrepreneurs in brand development and marketing, and strengthening local and regional economic development.