CEB takes part in EUROCITIES Economic Development Forum

VIENNA – The Council of Europe Development Bank (CEB) participated in the conference “Cities’ long-term investment for a stronger European economy,” organised by EUROCITIES on 16-18 October.

The aim of the event was to enable city authorities from across Europe to discuss and exchange policy and practice on challenges and solutions to cities’ long-term investment, especially regarding access to funding.  The conference gathered more than 100 city representatives for a panel debate, experts’ presentations, and interactive workshops on affordable housing and energy efficiency.

Stephan Sellen, Deputy Director General of Loans and Social Development at the CEB, highlighted the need for long-term investments in housing, health and education in cities. Promoting inclusive growth through the financing of social infrastructure projects is one of the priority areas of operation for the Bank.

In recent years, the CEB has stepped up cooperation with cities and municipalities in its member countries in order to lend its full support to their social investments. The Bank’s unique mandate – promoting social cohesion in Europe – makes it a natural partner for inclusive cities seeking to diversify their financing.

EUROCITIES is the network of major European cities. It brings together the local governments of over 135 of Europe's largest cities and over 45 partner cities that between them govern 130 million citizens across 39 countries.