"Cohesion policy is not a technicality; it is a political priority of the EU. It is time to move to the next level. We need to add the digital dimension to the economic, territorial and social dimensions of cohesion policy." Emil Boc, Mayor of Cluj Napoca made these remarks when addressing a discussion on Cohesion and Recovery during the 9th European Summit of Regions and Cities.
Boc said that the pandemic accelerated the green and digital transition. Giving examples from Cluj, Boc referred to remote working as well as the 'Green Friday' initiative through which citizens can use free public transport on a Friday. He added that digital technology had to complement education further keeping schools at the center of education.
Boc referred to the situation in Ukraine emphasising the need to have independence in the energy sector. "We can't depend more on Russia. We need to rely more on renewable energy and green technology. We need to speed up the green transition. Now is the moment to take key decisions."
With respect to the future of Cohesion Policy, Boc outlined challenges that need to be avoided included centralisation of EU funds, bureaucracy and the lack of synergy between different funds.