EU Global Gateway Strategy shifts the emphasis of ODA to investment in major infrastructure through blended finance and guarantees. Linking investment in regional and urban infrastructure and the role of cities and urban development to structural transformation of national economy is an important prerequisite to synergetic and sustainable investment at different territorial scales. Territorial analysis and monitoring of impact of investment in infrastructure and urban development can help achieve important synergies of large and medium-size investment creating important evidence for policy decisions. It requires conducting territorial analysis, cooperation across levels and sectors of governance, and close monitoring of the impact of investment to productive and equitable development.
Synopsis
The panelists stressed that corridors are not only about connecting cities to cities, but also about connecting rural areas. Rural areas need to be linked to cities in terms of access to digitalisation, energy supply, and trade possibilities. At the same time, local governance and trust in its leadership must be strengthened through building true partnerships with local, public and private actors. The territorial approach is fundamental to delivering on the SDGs.
