​In the framework of the structural dialogue with territorial associations, members of the European Committee of the Regions’ Commission for Commission for Territorial Cohesion Policy and EU Budget (COTER) discussed the future of EU budget with the European Commissioner for Regional Policy, Corina Creţu and the European Commissioner for Budget and Human Resources, Günther Oettinger. The debate took place following the publication of the Reflection paper on the future of EU finances, published in June this year.

 
In the debate, members expressed their concern over possible reductions to cohesion policy allocations after 2020, which was mentioned in most scenarios in the Paper. EA members Marie Antoinette Maupertuis and Kieran Mccarthy reiterated their call for a strong cohesion policy which would need to be simpler, more flexible and reflecting the need of local territories.
 
On the same day, the COTER commission held its second joint meeting with the European Parliament’s TRAN committee. Members had the opportunity to discuss about smart mobility solutions and opportunities to support regions and cities in innovating transport systems with the rapporteurs on the EU strategy on the low emission mobility and Cooperative Intelligent Transport systems.

 
During the debate, Ms Maupertuis stressed that innovation in transport must not contribute to the widening of the digital divide between highly connected urban and isolated rural areas and peripheral regions.​