During the first General Assembly of 2025, held on 17 May in Troyes, the important collaboration agreement between the European Association of the Via Francigena Ways (EAVF) and the Fédération Française de la Randonnée Pédestre (FFRP) — the leading organisation for the promotion and management of the hiking network in France — was officially renewed.

Sealing the partnership was a symbolic handshake between EAVF President Francesco Ferrari and FFRP President Frédéric Montoya, reaffirming their shared commitment to strengthening the management, promotion, and visibility of the Via Francigena on French territory. Particular focus was placed on the GR145 route, under the stewardship of the FFRP and supported by a large network of local volunteers.

In his address, President Ferrari emphasised the international dimension of the Via Francigena, recognised as a Cultural Route by the Council of Europe in 1994. He also reiterated the importance of collaboration between local authorities, institutions, and associations to ensure the route becomes increasingly accessible, valued, and sustainable along its entire length.

This renewed agreement marks a concrete step towards building an integrated European model for managing the route, fully aligned with the values promoted by the Council of Europe and the shared goals of soft mobility, environmental sustainability, cross-border cooperation, and intercultural dialogue.

The choice of Troyes as the venue for the General Assembly was no coincidence. The city, deeply rooted in the history of the Via Francigena, is currently investing in urban regeneration through the revitalisation of the historic pilgrimage route.

With this renewed partnership, the Via Francigena continues to affirm itself as an evolving European project — one that connects regions and communities, promoting a vision of Europe based on culture, sustainability, and unity.