As Europe faces numerous security and sovereignty challenges, empowering the defence industry is crucial for enhancing Europe's security. In line with recent European Commission announcements and the mid-term review of Cohesion Policy, this workshop will explore regional practices to support the defence industry. Regional policymakers, together with representatives from European Parliament and the EIB, will share their experiences, best practices, innovative solutions they are implementing, lessons learned, and the specific challenges they are facing.
- Cohesion | Governance and Public administration | Industry, entrepreneurship and SMEs (enterprise/ startup/ business) | Investment and Finances | Local and regional | Research and Innovation
- Code: 14PD252371
- Van Maerlant , VMA21
Moderator
Practical information
- When
-
Tue 14/10/2025, 14:30 - 16:00 CET
- Where
- Van Maerlant , VMA21
- Type of partnership
- Partnership
- Format
- Political/policy debate
- Theme
-
Cohesion and Growth for the Future
- Languages
- English, French
Partners
Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur Region
European Committee of the Regions
Reporting
Session summary
The European Commission emphasized that EU funds should help reduce fragmentation in the defence economy.
European Parliament noted that, in light of recent geopolitical shifts, its role has evolved to include more communication on defending EU values and stronger support for the role of regions in defence matters.
Region Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur stressed the importance of directing cohesion funds.
The European Parliament also highlighted the need for a Dual Use innovation agenda and a common foreign policy.
Regions are already playing a significant role by facilitating defence investments.
The Commission stressed that defence investments should not be seen as opposed to socio-economic investments, as they generate substantial spillover effects, especially through dual-use technologies (civil and military). The mid-term review of cohesion funds clarified that regions can use them for defence investments, reinforcing their key role.
EIB stressed the urgency of removing the stigma around financing defence.
