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Cohesion Policy: A Pillar For Green And Digital Transitions In The EU

The recent meeting of the General Affairs Council of the EU, held in Luxembourg, underscored the critical role of the EU Cohesion Policy in facilitating the green and digital transitions essential for sustainable development across member states. Cypriot Finance Minister Makis Keravnos highlighted the significance of this policy, advocating for its alignment with the EU’s strategic objectives for 2024-2029 to promote economic, social, and territorial cohesion.

Strategic Synergies for Balanced Development

Minister Keravnos emphasised the necessity of integrating the Cohesion Policy with the new EU Strategic Agenda. He argued that this alignment is vital to ensure balanced development across all EU regions. The policy’s investment in green and digital transitions is not merely a strategic choice but a legal obligation under the EU Treaties. It aims to foster economic, social, and territorial cohesion, which in turn reinforces the Single Market.

Decentralised Decision-Making and Stakeholder Participation

The discussions also touched upon the importance of decentralised decision-making and active participation of stakeholders at all levels – European, national, and local. This approach ensures that the unique characteristics and potential of each member state are harnessed effectively, promoting overall growth and prosperity within the EU. Cyprus’ position advocates for a collaborative model where localised insights and initiatives drive the broader EU goals.

Addressing Challenges and Opportunities

The General Affairs Council’s meeting highlighted both the challenges and opportunities presented by the green and digital transitions. As the EU moves towards a more sustainable and technologically advanced future, the Cohesion Policy is seen as a key tool to address disparities and ensure that all regions benefit from these advancements.

Electric Vehicle Subsidies in Cyprus: Urgent Calls for Government Action

The Motor Vehicle Importers and Electric Vehicle Association (Semio) has urgently called upon the Transport Ministry for immediate action concerning the ongoing hurdles with electric vehicle (EV) subsidies in Cyprus.

Semio expresses its concern, warning that any further delays could exacerbate financial strain on its members and heighten consumer dissatisfaction. A formal meeting with the Transport Minister is on the agenda to clarify the government’s position on the subsidy program.

Uncertainties and Impacts

The sudden stop of the EV grant scheme has stirred worry among car importers and potential buyers, leaving stockpiles of electric vehicles in limbo. This unexpected pause in government-backed support has echoed across the industry, with numerous consumer complaints surfacing.

Amid these events, there’s also the broader backdrop of the Cyprus government’s decision to reallocate funds within the national Recovery and Resilience Plan (RRP), aiming to stay aligned with EU financing requirements.

A Call for Dialogue

Despite the ministry’s assurances of pursuing additional funding and maintaining alignment with national energy objectives, Semio criticizes the lack of communication and urges consultation before implementing changes.

On a related note, Cyprus faces challenges in achieving its ambitious EU-mandated goal of registering 80,000 electric vehicles by 2030. The road ahead appears daunting unless a cohesive strategy is adopted.

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