discussions about the future of the region's chemical industry may have led to a rethink about EU proposals that may threaten jobs and investment in the region.
A delegation from the European Chemical Regions Network, which included representatives from the Tees Valley, has been in Brussels for talks with senior European Commission officials, MEPs and chemical industry figures.
The representatives, including Councillor Tony Richmond, from Darlington, and Magne Haugseng, head of economic development and Europe with the Tees Valley Joint Strategy Unit, believe they have made progress.
The Network, which represents more than 20 regions in Europe, is concerned that proposals from the European Commission for new regulations on the testing and control of chemical compounds could lead to companies moving production out of the EU.
Mr Haugseng said: "Perhaps the most important benefit of our visit was the chance to meet a significant number of MEPs, including some from the UK, and stress to them the importance of ensuring that the new European testing regime should be based not on the volume production of a particular chemical, but on its potential hazard to the environment."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article