Scottish Borders Council and neighbouring local authorities on both sides of the border are set to work more closely together.
SBC will join with Dumfries and Galloway, Northumberland, Cumbria and Carlisle City councils in meeting to forge new alliances to improve existing business, tourism and transport links and opportunities.
David Parker, leader of SBC, said: “We experience common challenges and opportunities arising from our rurality and relationships with cities that are in close proximity to us.”
The move follows a report which highlighted the benefits of co-operation.