The first “territorial dialogue” organized by the Committee of the Regions (COR) in the framework of EU strategy for employment and growth was held in Brussels last week. In the presence of the Vice-President of the European Commission Gunther Verheugen and the European Commissioner responsible for regional policy Danuta Hubner, the over 200 representatives of the regional and local authorities signed a political declaration in which they appeal to the heads of state and of government (due shortly to meet in the spring European Council) to reinforce the role that the local authorities wish to play, and could play, “in the definition and implementation of the Strategy of the European Union for growth and employment”. During the final press conference, the newly elected President of the COR Michel Delabarre underlined the need to recognize the right/duty of the regional and local authorities “in direct contact with the reality of economic development and social cohesion” to be “fully consulted” by the governments of the member states and by the Commission in the preparation of the so-called National Programmes of Reform. For further information, consult the website www.cor.eu.int
