Nicosia: Delegations from 18 EU member state capitals have signed a joint declaration in Nicosia, seeking recognition as strategic partners and involvement as key stakeholders in policy-making. This initiative was part of the 15th Annual Direct Dialogue between EU Capital City Mayors and the European Commission.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the declaration is a collective political commitment from European capitals regarding the role of cities in the new European period. Nicosia Mayor, Charalampos Prountzos, emphasized during a press conference that EU capitals are advocating for a robust cohesion policy with a binding urban dimension and significant city participation in national and regional plans. Prountzos highlighted that the success of the EU's competitiveness strategy hinges on the full integration of urban innovation ecosystems.
Furthermore, the Mayors are pushing for a strong urban focus within the multiannual financial framework. They underscored the importance of housing policy, advocating for the principle of subsidiarity and the incorporation of urban expertise in executing the EU's housing package.
Prountzos stated that European ambitions are unattainable without recognizing cities as strategic partners in developing and implementing European policy. The declaration was signed during the press conference, and the event concluded with a guided cultural tour of Nicosia.