Research & infrastructure: CoR President welcomes first EIB proposals for EU Investment Plan

​Markku Markkula, the President of the European Committee of the Regions (CoR), has warmly welcomed the first four projects proposed by the European Investment Bank (EIB). "This is a great start for the European Fund for Strategic Investments (EFSI) and we are eager to implement our own Action Plan with the EIB on quality projects for European regions and cities" President Markkula said. The first four projects focus on innovation and infrastructure in Croatia, Ireland, Italy and Spain.

In Croatia, Dubrovnik Airport currently struggles with ever increasing passengers and aircrafts numbers. With the help of the EIB loan, new passenger terminal capacity will be expanded to allow the regional economy to thrive through tourism while enhancing accessibility to the area. Through the project, airport staff is expected to double and 750 indirect jobs generated.

The Irish project for 14 new primary care centres around Ireland is expected to ease access to treatment for some 100.000 people at lower costs whilst providing better working conditions for staff. "Public-Private-Partnerships like this between the Irish Ministry for Health and private operators ensure flexible and efficient solutions for the future," President Markkula commented.

Encouraging research and innovation is a vital tool for future growth in Europe. The EIB loan for healthcare innovation in Spain supports research and development of plasma proteins to improve the medical treatment of for example Alzheimer's disease or vascular and cardiovascular surgery. Investment in research and innovation protects and creates skilled employment opportunities in Europe.

Innovation is also key for the future of the European industry. President Markkula warmly welcomed the EIB loan for the Italian Arvedi group, a leader in steel product innovation. By investing in more efficient technology, not only can steel be produced with increased energy efficiency and lower carbon footprint and emissions, at least 250 jobs are expected to be created through the project. "These are just a few examples of what investments in new projects can do for the future growth and quality of life in Europe" Markkula stated before adding that, "The CoR is happy to work closely as a partner with the EIB and the European Commission in ensuring these projects are implemented in the most efficient way while increasing cross-border cooperation between Europe's regions and cities".