At a time when the European project is increasingly coming under scrutiny, the urban agenda for the EU is an opportunity to build a stronger Europe closer to its citizens. The Dutch EU presidency today launches the Pact of Amsterdam establishing an urban agenda for the EU. This shows important political recognition of the role of cities in the EU, providing a new framework for their involvement in developing and implementing European policy.
Speaking ahead of the launch of the Pact of Amsterdam at an informal ministerial meeting today in Amsterdam, Johanna Rolland, mayor of Nantes and EUROCITIES president said:
“Our cities have shown that the values behind the European project are still very much alive. Cities have rallied to deal with the refugee crisis where national responses have been slow. We are committed every day to greater solidarity, cohesion and citizen participation. We are working to build a stronger Europe, one that is closer to its people.”