The European Union is a union of regions, each representing an extraordinary diversity of history, culture, and local identity. From an agricultural perspective, this diversity is mirrored in Europe’s biodiversity: unique genetic species, fruits, vegetables, traditional products, and processed goods that reflect the richness and specificity of our territories. This regional dimension must be preserved and recognized, especially as it will play a central role in the political dynamics of the upcoming debate on the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF).
This was the key message of the Local Dialogue hosted by Alberto Cirio, President of the ECON Commission at the European Committee of the Regions (CoR), held at the University of Gastronomic Sciences in Pollenzo.
The event, themed “Sustainability and Quality Agriculture in the EU Regional Agenda”, also highlighted the need to overcome outdated dichotomies that position environmental sustainability in opposition to agriculture. Instead, participants emphasized that sustainability and agricultural excellence must go hand in hand, particularly at the regional level where practical, tailored solutions are developed.
The dialogue featured interventions from leading regional and European voices, including:
Piotr Całbecki, President of the NAT Commission at the CoR
Petr Blížkovský, Secretary General of the CoR
Jan Zámečník, Member of the Regional Assembly of the South Moravian Region and Member of the CoR
Sara Boschi, City Councillor of Spirano (Lombardy) and Young Elected Politician within the CoR
Carlo Petrini, Founder and President of Slow Food International
This event is part of a broader series of Local Dialogues organized by the European People’s Party Group in the Committee of the Regions (EPP-CoR). These dialogues are designed to bring EU-level debates closer to local communities and everyday citizens. They reflect the EPP-CoR’s strong commitment to empowering regions and cities as key actors in shaping a greener, more sustainable, and inclusive European future.