Scandinavian cross-border bridges and highways are given as an example for successful project management in an area where the EU is currently trying to cut waste, politicking and huge delays in execution by focusing on a 'core' network of transport routes.
As tensions are flaring up in EU's southern neighbourhood and the dealings with eastern petro-states are politically embarassing, the 27-strong bloc is looking for inspiration in the Scandinavian energy market and considering a north-south gas corridor.
Faced with recession, high social expenditures and low revenues, as well as external pressure to reduce budget deficits, European countries are struggling to get their youngsters - the most flexible part of the workforce - back into the labour market.
As the Nordic countries are increasingly facing common security challenges arising from the melting ice cap and the race for natural resources, the five governments are pondering on ways to pool resources and increase their collective security.