Report 2010 on the implementation of the cohesion policy programmes for 2007-2013

The Council held a policy debate and adopted conclusions on a Commission report, presented in November 2010, on economic, social and territorial cohesion in the EU.

The Council conclusions highlight the following points:

(1) the need for continued pursuit of the objective of reduced disparities between the development levels of the various regions of the EU and underline the contribution cohesion policy has made towards the EU's competitiveness and growth objectives;

(2) that cohesion policy should focus on a limited number of priorities, in line with the Europe 2020 strategy, while maintaining sufficient flexibility to allow for regional needs.

The conclusions call for further discussions on the following Commission suggestions:

• the creation of a "development and investment partnership contract", which outlines an investment and development strategy addressing the priorities established under the Europe 2020 strategy for jobs and growth;
• a list of priorities on which EU and national resources should focus;
• conditionalities and incentive mechanisms linked to cohesion policy.

Comments made during the Council debate will provide input to the Commission in its preparation of a legislative package for structural funds after 2013, which is due to be published before the summer.

The Council also adopted without discussion conclusions on a special report by the European Court of Auditors concerning the effectiveness of structural measures spending on the supply of water for domestic consumption, set out in document 6490/11.