"Over the past months, we’ve built a strong and constructive dialogue. These exchanges have laid the groundwork for deeper and more impactful cooperation between our two Groups, united by a shared EPP mission: responsible, forward-looking legislation that genuinely reflects the needs of European citizens. The timing is crucial, especially just days before the European Commission unveils its first proposal on the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF). This comes in the context of important debates on the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), cohesion policy, innovation, equality, and other policies that directly affect the daily lives of our citizens. From our side, we aim to join forces to empower our communities, listen to their voices, and set new common horizons." Sari Rautio, President of the EPP-CoR, made these remarks during a debate on cooperation between the EPP Group in the European Parliament and the EPP Group in the European Committee of the Regions.
Romana Tomc, Vice-Chair of the EPP Group in the European Parliament and responsible for coordination with the EPP-CoR, emphasized the central role of cities and municipalities: “Regions, cities, and municipalities are the core of Europe. I believe this cooperation is of utmost importance as we legislate on matters that ultimately impact the entire continent — from cities to villages. This collaboration is especially important because we belong to the same political family, share the same values, and can more effectively influence decisions that serve our citizens' best interests when we work together.”
On the MFF, she added: “We expect the role of local and regional authorities to be fully preserved. These authorities are best placed to understand the needs on the ground. A place-based approach, multilevel governance, and partnership must be the guiding principles of the next MFF. Strong regional and local capacities ensure efficient implementation and deliver the highest added value.”
On the demographic challenges, Tomc outlined four key pillars: Building a family- and child-friendly society; Improving women’s work-life balance; Boosting the participation of older people; Addressing depopulation and labour shortages.
Jelena Drenjanin, Councillor of Huddinge, stated: “When it comes to collaboration, we can do even better in addressing citizens’ concerns. Thematic trips are valuable — we must learn from each other. Joint meetings in Brussels are also important opportunities. If we want real impact, we need to aim at the right targets. That means cooperation. That means recognising that we are closest to the citizens, to SMEs, to the pulse of our communities. Big companies will always find a way — but it’s the small and medium ones that carry Europe forward. Let’s make sure they’re not forgotten.”
Franck Proust, President of Nîmes and former MEP, added: “The European Committee of the Regions is a vital transmission belt — linking European policymaking with the day-to-day realities of citizens and businesses. We must work together to close that gap. Initiatives like local dialogues and field visits are exactly what we need. Europe is too often caricatured or misunderstood, and many of our citizens — and business leaders — don’t realise how present and supportive the EU can be in their lives. These visits should reflect real and urgent local concerns — whether it’s a struggling school, a port under pressure, or a company in distress.”
Olgierd Geblewicz, President of the West Pomerania Region, expressed disappointment at recent developments regarding the MFF. “Cohesion is under great pressure, and we can ask who is exerting that pressure. There seems to be an idea to centralize everything, so once again against cohesion policy. Only trough a great cooperation between the EPP in the CoR and the EPP in the EP we can really have an impact."
Emil Boc, Mayor of Cluj-Napoca, warned that current MFF proposals lack political vision. “Cohesion policy is what keeps democracy alive in Europe. If we weaken the role of regions and cities — if we reduce their power, their influence, their voice — we are weakening the very structure that still works. Because let’s be honest: at the local and regional level, democracy still functions. Citizens still believe. Communities still trust. Move higher up, and you start to see the fractures. So here is my political position, clearly stated: if we centralize cohesion, we centralize discontent. And that is a dangerous path.”
Ivan Žagar, Mayor of the Municipality of Slovenska Bistrica, stressed: “As the largest political force in the EU, we have great opportunities — but also significant responsibilities. We must deliver for our citizens, and deeper cooperation within the EPP family is crucial. We are at a turning point — we must preserve traditional policies like cohesion and agriculture, while addressing new challenges. Striking the right balance is essential. To maintain our quality of life, we must strengthen regional and territorial cohesion.”
Eleni Loukaidou, Member of the Municipal Council of Lefkosia, highlighted: “Cyprus, as an island in the southeastern part of Europe, faces amplified challenges — including energy connectivity, transport, water supply, housing, tourism, and the high cost of imports. Within the framework of our institutional cooperation, these problems should be acknowledged and factored into the discussions on the future MFF.”
Markku Markkula, President of the Helsinki Region, said: “The message is clear: we need the EU, and we have significant resources at local and regional levels. We must mobilise cities and regions to take on a more active role. Let’s ensure cities are also involved in the financing and implementation of the MFF.”
Zlatko Zhivkov, Mayor of Montana Municipality (Bulgaria), concluded: “The regional government is the level of governance closest to the people. In Bulgaria, over 800 services are delivered by local and regional authorities. We are the ones delivering — day in and day out — for our citizens. That’s why collaboration is not only essential — it is vital.”