Panorama

What should our readers know about you? How will your previous experience inform your approach to the role of chair of the Regi committee?

I am now serving my second mandate in the European Parliament, and during my first term, I had the privilege of being Vice-Chair of the REGI Committee. This role gave me a deep familiarity with the work of the Committee, allowing me to closely follow its priorities and the challenges we face at the European level. Moreover, my extensive political experience at local, regional, and national levels has given me valuable insights into how EU policies and funding mechanisms can best serve communities on the ground.

Having worked with regional authorities, I have witnessed first-hand the difficulties in accessing EU funds and the varying needs of different regions. This hands-on experience will enable me to shape policies that address the diverse realities faced by European regions, from less developed to more advanced areas. As Chair, I will draw on this experience to ensure that our work in REGI fosters cohesion, boosts innovation, and ensures no region is left behind.

Throughout my political career, I’ve built a strong network across both national governments and European institutions. These relationships will be crucial as we navigate the complex political landscape in the European Parliament and beyond, forging consensus on key legislative files. I believe that collaboration—whether with fellow MEPs, the European Commission, or stakeholders—is the backbone of progress, and I will use my position to foster a constructive dialogue that drives regional development forward.

I also bring practical knowledge of EU funding mechanisms, having worked with EU structural funds and other financial instruments. This experience will be essential in my role as Chair, ensuring that the EU’s funds are not only accessible but also effectively deployed to maximize their impact on regional growth and economic cohesion.

Additionally, my political background has equipped me with the skills to craft, negotiate, and advocate for policies that balance regional interests while advancing the broader goals of cohesion and economic development. As Chair, I will guide complex legislative files and steer them towards solutions that reflect the diversity of Europe’s regions.

My combined experience in local governance, EU processes, and political leadership will allow me to lead the REGI Committee effectively. I am committed to influencing European regional policy in a way that fosters growth, innovation, and inclusivity, ensuring that cohesion remains at the heart of the EU’s agenda.

 

What do you consider the most urgent files to tackle in your committee?

The most urgent files for the REGI Committee over the next five years are undeniably the new Multi-annual Financial Framework (MFF) and the legislative package for Cohesion Policy post-2027. These two files are closely intertwined and crucial for the future of the European Union, as they shape both the financial and policy framework that will guide the EU’s development for years to come.

The MFF is not just a financial blueprint; it is a reflection of our collective priorities as a Union. It determines the size of the EU budget and allocates funding to the areas we believe are most strategic for Europe’s future. As we negotiate this framework, my key priority is to ensure we secure an ambitious budget that reflects the diverse needs of all European regions, especially those that depend heavily on EU support to drive their economic development, foster social cohesion, and reduce disparities.

At the same time, the legislative package for Cohesion Policy beyond 2027 is a pivotal moment for shaping the future of this policy, which is at the core of our efforts to create a more balanced and equitable Europe. Cohesion Policy is not just about redistributing funds; it’s a statement of our commitment to solidarity, progress, and the principles of fairness that underpin the EU. As we discuss the legislative framework, we must ensure it is fit for purpose, addressing the evolving challenges of regional disparities, climate change, demographic shifts, and economic imbalances.

Both of these dossiers are not just about figures or bureaucratic procedures—they are a declaration of the kind of Europe we want to build - a Europe where all regions, regardless of their starting point, have the resources and opportunities to grow, innovate, and prosper.

We must ensure that the MFF provides the financial strength needed to support a forward-looking Cohesion Policy that continues to address uneven development and social inequalities.

The decisions we make on these files will have a lasting impact on Europe’s growth, social cohesion, and unity. Therefore, it is crucial that we defend a strong cohesion policy anchored in its fundamentals: multi-level governance, strong partnership, the principles of solidarity and progress that lie at the heart of our Union, with local and regional authorities at the centre of our efforts. This is essential to ensure that no region is left behind and that Europe remains competitive, resilient, and inclusive.

 

Which values will inspire your mandate as chair?

As I take on the role of Chair of the Committee on Regional Development, I am deeply aware of the responsibility this position carries. The future of Europe’s regions, whether they are flourishing or still overcoming challenges, will be shaped by the decisions we make here.

My first objective will be to secure a strong Cohesion Policy post-2027, backed by a robust budget, while ensuring that its fundamental principles - multilevel governance, strong partnerships, and enhanced involvement of local and regional authorities in the design and implementation of the policy - are maintained. These principles are crucial to ensuring that the Cohesion Policy remains responsive to the needs of all regions and fosters solidarity across the Union. By keeping a close partnership between the European, national, regional, and local levels, we can ensure that decisions reflect the realities on the ground, delivering better outcomes for citizens across Europe. Beyond this, several other core values will guide me as we strive for meaningful progress.

First and foremost, inclusivity and cohesion will be central to everything we do. My priority will be ensuring that no region, regardless of its location or current challenges, is left behind. Whether we’re talking about rural, border, or economically struggling areas, our task is to bridge gaps and create opportunities for all. Shared prosperity is crucial, and I will work tirelessly to guarantee that every part of Europe receives the support it needs to grow and thrive.

Equally important is sustainability. In today’s world, economic development must go hand in hand with environmental responsibility. We can no longer afford to prioritise growth at the expense of our environment. Our policies must promote renewable energy, protect natural resources, and help regions adapt to the realities of climate change. Together, we can build a future where economic progress and environmental stewardship reinforce one another.

Innovation and competitiveness are also key values that will shape my approach. The global economy is evolving rapidly, and we cannot allow Europe’s regions to be left behind. I will work to ensure that all regions have access to the tools, knowledge, and resources they need to embrace digitalization, support entrepreneurship, and foster innovation. By doing so, we can equip every region to compete successfully in a fast-changing world.

Another guiding principle is solidarity and collaboration. The European Union has always been built on the principle of solidarity, and this is especially relevant to regional development. I will actively encourage cooperation between regions, local authorities, and EU institutions to ensure that our policies are implemented effectively and that resources are wisely used for the benefit of all.

Finally, transparency and accountability will be the foundation of my leadership. It is vital that our decisions are transparent, resource allocation is fair, and the impact of our policies is both measurable and visible to the citizens we serve. This goes beyond good governance; it is about maintaining the people's trust and confidence.

 

How do you expect the relation between the REGI committee and DG Regio to unfold?

The relationship between the REGI Committee and DG REGIO has always been one of trust, mutual respect, and close cooperation. DG REGIO is a reliable and essential partner in our shared mission to advance regional development and cohesion within the European Union. Throughout my mandate as Chair, I fully intend to maintain and strengthen this strong working relationship.

Teamwork is fundamental to achieving our goals, and I want to underscore the importance of collaboration between the REGI Committee and DG REGIO. We are both committed to delivering impactful policies and ensuring that cohesion remains at the heart of the EU’s development agenda. By maintaining open channels of communication and working together, we can ensure the effective design and implementation of policies that address the needs of all European regions.

I also want to highlight the dynamic and powerful composition of the REGI Committee. No chair can succeed without the support of a committed team, and I am fortunate to have a strong group of coordinators and members who share a common vision. Together with DG REGIO, we can tackle the challenges of post-2027 cohesion policy, ensuring that our work drives sustainable growth, inclusivity, and innovation across Europe’s regions and that the benefits of cohesion policy reach all corners of Europe.

  

What are you looking forward to for this legislature?

In this new legislature, I am looking forward to ensuring that the Cohesion Policy remains a powerful tool for positive transformation across Europe. While the Cohesion Policy has brought significant benefits to regions across the EU, we must acknowledge that disparities persist between regions and within them. There are also new and evolving challenges ahead, including the green and digital transition, climate change, migration, competitiveness and strategic autonomy, demographic shifts, economic stagnation, and the potential for future enlargement waves. These issues will demand innovative and targeted solutions to ensure balanced development and growth across all regions.

A key priority for me and the REGI Committee is to defend the integrity of the Cohesion Policy, both regulatory and financial, and ensure it retains its unique character, distinct from broader investment policies. We are committed to maintaining its long-term vision, its focus on partnership, and its place-based approach. These elements are the very DNA of Cohesion Policy, and they must be preserved as we adapt to future challenges.

We also recognise that good governance, strong institutions, respect for the rule of law, and strong administrative capacity are essential for the effective design and implementation of any development strategy. These factors are critical for ensuring that the Cohesion Policy delivers real economic and social progress. Without them, even the best policies cannot reach their full potential. Strengthening these foundations across regions will be a key focus of our work. 

As the REGI Committee, we will strongly defend the role assigned to Cohesion Policy by the EU Treaty, namely, promoting economic, social, and territorial cohesion. This role is more relevant than ever as we strive to reduce inequalities and ensure that no region, community, or citizen is left behind.

Looking ahead, I am convinced that by the end of this legislative term, we will have shaped a more robust Cohesion Policy supported by a more straightforward regulatory framework and a strong budget. This would allow for quicker, more efficient, and more flexible support to EU citizens and territories as they confront the challenges ahead. Our goal is to build a more resilient, inclusive and prepared Europe to address the needs of its diverse regions in the face of ongoing and future challenges.