European Week of Regions and Cities focuses on cohesion policy in Brussels

The 24th edition of the European Week of Regions and Cities is taking place in Brussels, bringing together local and regional authorities, experts, and European institution representatives. Under the motto ‘Strong Regions, a Strong Europe’, the event focuses on cohesion policy, regional development, and identifying solutions for community needs.

The discussions occur as the Union outlines financial priorities for the next seven years. This comes amid proposals from the Irish Presidency of the Council of the EU to reduce the European Commission’s draft budget by 8% to approximately 1,600 billion euros. Such a compromise could include a 3% reduction in allocations for agriculture and regional development, a move that heightens concerns for less developed regions, particularly in Eastern Europe, regarding future investments in infrastructure, competitiveness, and public services.

Regional leaders, including Constantin Rădulescu, President of the Vâlcea County Council, are participating to advocate for continued access to European funds to support local infrastructure and modernization projects.