It faces handicaps mainly linked to its geographical position: it is a peninsula, far from the centers of population and decision-making on the continent. Jean-Yves Le Drian. Local and regional authorities have their place in the European Union, notably through the Committee of the Regions, but also through the role of regional parliaments.
They are also a driving force for Europe: thanks to the many achievements of cross-border cooperation, Europe has a sure and everyday face for our fellow citizens; they can perceive through them all the benefits of the European construction. I am thinking of very concrete initiatives such as the transboundary natural parks, the Vosges or the Mercantour, or the cross-border tramways, such as Strasbourg-Kehl, which was inaugurated this year. This kind of co-operation is essential for the , French citizens crossing the border every day in a neighboring country.
In addition, regions are key players in addressing the global challenges facing Europe. Finally, it should not be forgotten that it is the regions that manage the Community funding for cohesion. But we must also have a pragmatic approach. The disparity in the means and powers of local authorities across Europe sometimes makes it difficult to express common positions. From this point of view, groupings based on shared interests are an effective instrument, such as the Conference of Peripheral Maritime Regions, of which Bretagne is a founding member.
This is obviously one of the great challenges of the 21st century for Bretagne as well as for France and Europe. The challenge is global, which is why it is crucial to achieving shared goals at the global level. Otherwise, the efforts of some would be rendered in vain by the inaction of the others. The Paris Conference helped to forge the broad outlines of an unprecedented consensus, but vigilance must be exercised to ensure that the commitments of all parties are respected.
The game is far from won, and Europe will have to set an example. In Europe, as I have already said, it is the local authorities who will translate these commitments into action. The European Union is an essential partner for this, in particular through the Structural Funds which already support investment in of a carbon-free economy throughout our territories. It will have to do even more in the future. Indeed, cyber defense and cyber security are major issues in an increasingly connected world.
