Cohesion policy

"Cohesion Policy has greatly contributed to the development of our cities, villages & regions. Today, it can also ensure that the EU and its local governments meet the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)." With these words, CEMR secretary General, Frédéric Vallier, introduced a debate on the urban dimension of cohesion policy. 

“The SDGs should be the roadmap to design EU policies. But how can we make the SDGs understandable for citizens and how can they contribute to this type of growth?,” added Mr Vallier.

The debate took place during the congress “Think Europe – Intermediary cities key for development”, organised by the city of Soria and CEMR Spanish association (FEMP), on 16 to 18 January. Participants included the Mayor of Seville and CEMR spokesperson for climate, Juan Espadas, the Spanish MEP Iratxe García Pérez and the Mayor of Aranjuez and member of CEMR policy committee, Cristina Moreno Moreno.