We endorse a common European approach to tackle the refugee crisis in Europe, as outlined by European Commission's President Jean-Claude Juncker in his State of the European Union address today. We particularly welcome the proposed common EU list of safe countries of origin, for which we called recently. However, we hope that the role of the regions and local authorities in providing support, integration and inclusion to those in need will be better recognised - commented President of the EPP Group in the Committee of the Regions, Michael Schneider – The Commission's readiness to look into how EU Funds can support these efforts is well appreciated and we are ready to be part of this dialogue, especially as we are the ones primarily responsible for the first interactions with migrants arriving on our shores by providing housing, education and food.
The Commission President also has our support when it comes to the Investment Plan and other core projects such as the Digital Single Market, Capital Markets Union and the Energy Union, upon which he commented. We need to reduce obstacles and better use the scale of our continent to stimulate innovation, connect our talents and offer a wider choice of products and services. We hope that in line with the spirit of subsidiarity expressed during his last visit at the CoR, President Juncker will continue to recognise municipalities and regions as important stakeholders in preparation of better policies for the Union – President Schneider concluded.