The exchange of current information about EU affairs, issues associated with preparing projects co-financed from EU funds, and activities related to preparations for the Czech presidency of the EU Council in the second half of the year were the topics discussed at a working meeting held between Pilsen Region officials and MEP Ondřej Knotek.
The Friday (18 February 2022) meeting was attended by Pilsen Region President Rudolf Špoták, Vice President Petr Vanka, and Pilsen Regional Authority’s Head of the Department of EU Funds and Programmes Jan Přibáň. Those in attendance agreed that it was necessary to continue to strengthen Pilsen Region’s reputation in Brussels.
“To achieve this we should ideally use not only our well-established permanent office which has been operating [in Brussels] since 2006, but also scheduled events that the region will hold or take part in organising in Brussels this year,” explains Vice President for Regional Development, IT and European Affairs Petr Vanka, adding that it was essential to continue strengthening the network of contacts and partners that has helped Pilsen Region obtain information on EU cohesion and regional policy, European territorial cooperation instruments, structural funds, and Community programmes, through which the region is able to influence this agenda in Brussels.
“I believe that the coming relaxation of restrictions, which will allow people to meet more easily, will also help us achieve our goals. Our upcoming presidency should take full advantage of this,” noted Pilsen Region President Rudolf Špoták.