In a rapidly changing environment, cohesion policy remains the key European policy tool for promoting a balanced and sustainable development in the European regions.
The main issue, according to the General Secretary of Public Investments and NSRF, Dimitris Skalkos, as he pointed out at the RGC Regional Conference, organized by the “Peloponnisos” newspaper from March 16 to 18, is to clarify the role of the cohesion policy, that is, we want it to address crises or implement long-term strategies.
For his part, the representative of the Hellenic Foundation for European and Foreign Policy (ELIAMEP) Giorgos Petrakos, we must define the priorities for the planning period after 2027, while to the question of where new resources will be drawn, he answered:
“Europe needs a ‘tax hand’ on large companies that generate huge values and are not taxed”. The following speakers also took part in the discussion: pr. General Secretary of Public Investments and NSRF, Ministry of Development and Investments Giorgos Giannoussis,), Economist and Professor, Department of Public Investment, University of Thessaly Alekos Kritikos. The coordinator was Ioannis Papageorgiou, Director General, Regional Policy Observatory.
Athanasios Katsis, Chancellor of the University of Peloponnese
#RGC #Cohesion #Policy #Future
How can the European Union enhance collaboration among member states to address disparities in regional development while balancing immediate needs and long-term sustainability goals?
**Interview with Dimitris Skalkos, General Secretary of Public Investments and NSRF**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us, Mr. Skalkos. At the recent RGC Regional Conference, you discussed the importance of cohesion policy in addressing both current crises and long-term strategies. Could you elaborate on how you envision this dual role?
**Dimitris Skalkos:** Certainly. Cohesion policy is crucial in ensuring that all regions in Europe have the opportunity to grow and develop sustainably. In times of crisis, such as economic downturns or health emergencies, this policy can provide the necessary support to vulnerable areas. Simultaneously, it should also serve as a framework for implementing long-term strategies that focus on innovation, sustainability, and social cohesion. Our goal is to clarify this dual role to better serve European regions.
**Interviewer:** That’s a compelling perspective. Giorgos Petrakos from ELIAMEP pointed out the need to establish priorities for the post-2027 planning period. What specific priorities do you think should be addressed to enhance the effectiveness of cohesion policy going forward?
**Dimitris Skalkos:** I believe we need to prioritize the digital and green transitions. Investing in green technologies and digital infrastructure is vital for sustainable development, especially for regions that historically lag behind. We also need to focus on social inclusivity to ensure that no region or community is left behind in the economic transformation that Europe is undergoing.
**Interviewer:** And speaking of resources, Mr. Petrakos suggested introducing a ‘tax hand’ on large companies that generate substantial profits but are under-taxed. Do you think this approach could provide adequate funding for cohesion policy initiatives?
**Dimitris Skalkos:** Introducing fair taxation on large corporations could indeed be a viable source of funding. This could help ensure that those who benefit the most from the European market also contribute fairly to the common good. However, any such initiative must be carefully evaluated to avoid discouraging investment or innovation.
**Interviewer:** as we look towards the future, what would you like to see from the broader European conversation about cohesion policy?
**Dimitris Skalkos:** I hope to see a more robust dialog among member states about the importance of cohesion policy as a tool for equality and development. It is essential that all stakeholders—governments, companies, and civil society—collaborate to shape policies that address both immediate needs and future challenges. I encourage readers to consider this: How do you believe Europe can balance immediate crisis management with the need for long-term sustainable development in regions that are facing disparities? Your thoughts could contribute significantly to the ongoing debate.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Mr. Skalkos, for sharing your insights. This is a critical discussion, and we look forward to engaging our audience on these vital issues.
