Debate: Towards a stronger partnership with the EU outermost regions
Date: MONDAY, 13 SEPTEMBER 2021
Speaker: Elisa Ferreira
Language: EN

We in the Commission share the Parliament’s commitment to the outermost regions and we welcome this timely report, which actually arrives just as the Commission is running consultations on a new strategic approach for the outermost regions. This is part of our closer look to our territories. The need to be more aware of that diversity, endogenous assets and challenges, opportunities as well of course.  We need to constantly remember that our policies are not territorially neutral and that it is incumbent upon us to make sure that they promote the long-term development of all our regions. This is what we wish to do with our revised strategy of the outermost, to consider and discuss how we can be more relevant and supportive in the areas of social matters, health, education, training, but also taking a fresh look at agriculture and fisheries and energy transition, thinking anew about the role of administration. At this critical juncture of recovery we need to deepen the reflection and adjusted approach for solutions to be adequate, to be fit for purpose. Let me assure you that we in the Commission are carefully examining your detailed suggestions set out in this report, and we will take them into account in shaping the new strategic approach.  We are very aware that COVID has fallen particularly hard on the outermost regions. We have commissioned a study on this topic, which will be ready by the end of October, as you know. But available data suggest already that in many outermost regions, GDP, so the wealth, fell between 15% and 30% in the last year, and that in 2020, in the previous year, tourism in the outermost was at just 30%. So a fall of 70% of its normal level. You will find more details in the report in October.  The Commission welcomes the focus of your report on investing in training and job creation, on generating opportunities for young people and on promoting a sustainable green and digital transition. We endorse completely this vision.  We also endorse your position on the need to protect biodiversity and on the need to promote the circular economy and renewable energy while still supporting traditional sectors such as agriculture, fisheries, tourism and culture.  We in the European Commission stand ready to support the outermost regions through the new cohesion programmes, through other European Union programmes and whatever instruments we can muster in line with Article 349 of the Treaty.  We look forward to working with the Parliament as we shape together the new strategic approach and lay foundations for a sustainable long-term recovery. For this, we want to hear your views and those of your constituents. Please encourage as many of them as possible to reply to our public consultation launched in July and open until November.  I believe the future holds many opportunities for the outermost regions, from renewable energy to sustainable tourism, to the blue economy. They can be leaders and pioneers, and we in the European Commission are ready to be their supporters. So thank you very much,  On doit travailler ensemble.  Trabalhamos juntos para o bem de todos.