Slovakia wants to have a strong voice in shaping the future of EU investments

Bratislava – The Government Council for Cohesion Policy and Regional Development approved Slovakia’s Initial Position on the EU Cohesion Policy after 2027. The strategic document will be submitted to the government for approval and will subsequently serve as a basis for negotiations at the European level, announced the Ministry of Investment, Regional Development and Informatization (MIRRI) of Slovakia on Thursday, reports TASR.

The approved proposal, according to the department, defines the maintenance of cohesion policy as the main EU investment tool with an appropriate budget. It rejects centralization and advocates for strengthening partnership within the shared management model, supports integrated territorial development not only of cities but also rural areas, better coordination of cohesion policy with the European semester, as well as simplification of rules with an emphasis on efficiency and results.

The government council meeting also addressed the work plan of intergovernmental commissions for cross-border cooperation this year. The document includes planned activities and objectives to strengthen cooperation between Slovakia and its neighboring countries in the areas of infrastructure, environment, education, and regional development.

“The goal of the plan is to support innovation, improve environmental sustainability, and develop cross-border functional areas. The plan also takes into account existing European policies and provides a framework for coordinated development of border areas,” described the situation by deputy minister Michal Kaliňák.

The department added that one of the main topics of the discussion was the preparation of Slovakia’s Architectural Policy. This strategic document aims to establish clear rules for quality construction, cultural heritage protection, and sustainable development of towns and villages. Slovakia is among the last EU countries not to have adopted such a document so far. The Slovak Chamber of Architects is also involved in preparing the document, and its approval is expected by MIRRI Slovakia by the end of this year. (February 13)