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 dominant issue, according to the General Secretary of Public Investments and NSRF, Dimitris Skalkos, as he emphasized at the RGC Regional Conference, organized by the newspaper “Peloponnisos” from March 16 to 18, is to clarify the role of of political cohesion, i.e. we want it to face 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
How do you envision the role of taxation in fostering equitable regional development among EU member states?
**Interview with Dimitris Skalkos, General Secretary of Public Investments and NSRF**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Mr. Skalkos. The recent RGC Regional Conference highlighted the critical role of cohesion policy in navigating the challenges faced by European regions. Can you elaborate on what you see as the primary role of political cohesion moving forward?
**Dimitris Skalkos:** Certainly. The primary role of political cohesion is to provide a framework that can either address emerging crises or guide long-term strategic development. In our rapidly changing environment, it is vital that we not only respond to immediate challenges but also invest in sustainable growth that benefits all European regions equally.
**Editor:** Interesting perspective. Giorgos Petrakos from ELIAMEP raised an important point about defining priorities for the post-2027 planning period. In your view, what should be the top priorities for this future planning?
**Dimitris Skalkos:** I believe the top priorities should include enhancing economic resilience, promoting social inclusion, and ensuring environmental sustainability. Additionally, we must be proactive in identifying and mobilizing new funding sources to support these initiatives.
**Editor:** Speaking of funding, Mr. Petrakos suggested the need for a “tax hand” on large companies that generate substantial values but are under-taxed. How do you view this proposal and its potential impact on cohesion policy?
**Dimitris Skalkos:** The concept of a fair taxation system for large corporations is worth considering. If implemented, it could provide much-needed revenue that could be reinvested into regional development projects. This could help bridge gaps between regions and create more balanced growth across Europe.
**Editor:** as we look towards the future, what do you hope will be the outcome of the discussions surrounding cohesion policy among various stakeholders?
**Dimitris Skalkos:** I hope these discussions will lead to a unified vision that encompasses both immediate responses to current crises and a shared commitment to long-term development goals. Collaboration among all stakeholders is key to achieving a cohesive and sustainable Europe.
**Editor:** Thank you, Mr. Skalkos. Your insights on these crucial issues provide a foundation for what could be a lively debate among our readers.
**Debate Question:** With the European Union facing multiple crises, how do you believe cohesion policy should balance immediate responses with long-term strategic planning? Should large corporations be subject to increased taxes to support regional development, or are there alternative funding sources that could be explored? Share your thoughts!