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 Investments, 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
What are the most significant challenges that cohesion policy faces in addressing both immediate crisis situations and long-term development goals in Europe?
**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 emphasized the need to clarify the role of cohesion policy. Can you elaborate on what you believe should be its primary focus moving forward?
**Dimitris Skalkos:** Absolutely. In our rapidly changing environment, cohesion policy must strike a balance between addressing immediate crises and implementing long-term strategies. It’s crucial that this policy not only responds to current challenges but also sets a sustainable path for future development across European regions.
**Interviewer:** Your colleague, Giorgos Petrakos from ELIAMEP, has raised concerns regarding resource allocation for the next planning period after 2027. He advocates for taxing large corporations that currently contribute minimally. What are your thoughts on this approach?
**Dimitris Skalkos:** I agree with Mr. Petrakos. Finding new funding sources is vital for maintaining and expanding our regional development initiatives. Implementing a fair tax system on large corporations can provide the necessary revenue to support these important policies, ensuring they are robust and effective.
**Interviewer:** As we look ahead, what specific priorities do you envision for cohesion policy after 2027?
**Dimitris Skalkos:** We need to prioritize sustainability and inclusivity in our strategies. This means investing in green technologies, fostering digital transformation, and ensuring that all regions, particularly those that are less developed, receive the support they need to thrive in a competitive market.
**Interviewer:** In light of these discussions, what questions would you pose to our readers regarding the future of cohesion policy in Europe?
**Dimitris Skalkos:** I would ask our readers: How do you think Europe can balance immediate crisis responses with long-term sustainable development? And, do you agree that taxing large corporations is a viable solution to fund necessary cohesion initiatives? Your thoughts could shape how we move forward!
