It is important for the Cyprus Presidency to bring Europe closer to citizens and tailor EU policies to local and regional needs said Andreas Mavroyannis, Cyprus Deputy Minister for European Affairs, during his presentation of the priorities of the EU Council Cyprus Presidency during yesterday's CoR Plenary Session. In this regard he sent a message that the Cyprus Presidency is counting on the CoR to work in partnership towards sustainable and inclusive growth. "The Committee of the Regions has substantial knowledge which is of great potential for the growth agenda" he underlined.

Michael Schneider, President of the EPP Group, replied to the intervention saying that the priorities are in line with those of the incoming President of the Committee of the Regions and as such, the EPP Group can fully support the Presidency in its endeavours. He also reminded the Minister that there is no better EU instrument for growth and job creation than the structural funds and that the Group is eagerly anticipating the next steps. "Cyprus is well advised to take up the offer of the European Parliament and to finalise the MMF and structural fund regulations as soon as possible" he expressed.

The EPP Group President also took the opportunity to highlight the growing concern about recent developments in Romania and noted that he will be keeping "a watchful eye" on the next steps.