Press Release: Mobilising innovation potential for growth: Commissioner Hahn calls on EU regions to act

Improving the competitiveness of the EU's regions through EU investments and targeted planning was underlined on 8 November 2013 by Johannes Hahn, European Commissioner for Regional Policy. Speaking at the conference 'Regions as motors of new growth through smart specialisation', in Brussels, Commissioner Hahn urged regions to identify their key assets and focus resources on them to enhance their competitive advantage.

The debate comes at a crucial time, as the proposals for the new Cohesion Policy 2014-2020 are at a final phase. Key to the new reformed policy is the introduction of conditions that should be met before funds can be spent. One of those is the development of a clear and carefully designed 'smart specialisation strategy' for research and innovation. This should guide how investments are used over the next 7 years and ensure clear aims are delivered on the ground.

ESO: Background information: A New Cohesion Policy for Growth and Jobs in Europe / Cohesion Policy reform: MEPs approve deal with Council http://www.europeansources.info/record/speech-a-new-cohesion-policy-for-growth-and-jobs-in-europe-cohesion-policy-reform-meps-approve-deal-with-council/

Council of the European Union: Press Release, PRES/13/459: Keynote speech by President of the European Council Herman Van Rompuy at the conference 'Regions as motors of new growth through smart specialisation' http://www.consilium.europa.eu/uedocs/cms_data/docs/pressdata/en/ec/139424.pdf

EurActiv, 08.11.13: Revamped cohesion policy agreed after one year of negotiations http://www.euractiv.com/priorities/revamped-cohesion-policy-agreed-news-531576

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