I met with the EU Commissioner for Research in Brussels — Harghita had a seat at the table
On April 24, 2026, in Brussels, during the SEDEC committee meeting of the European Committee of the Regions, I held a direct discussion with Commissioner Ekaterina Zaharieva, responsible for research, innovation, and startups in the European Union.
This was not a protocol meeting. It was a debate where the direction of the EU’s future research strategy was being decided — in other words, the rules according to which research and development funds will be distributed across the European Union starting from 2028. I was there, and Harghita’s voice was present as well.
The SEDEC committee’s agenda included the EU strategy on research and technological infrastructure. This document sets out how research infrastructures will be developed across the EU after 2028.
Commissioner Zaharieva emphasized that the European Union must strive to become the world’s leading destination for research and innovation, and for this, every region must have a real chance.
I made three clear requests:
First: proportional funding for less developed regions.
The current system favors already strong research ecosystems, meaning most funds go to developed regions. This self-reinforcing cycle must be broken. Harghita County cannot remain permanently behind.
Second: less bureaucracy — in practice.
We need shorter procedures, easier access, and more predictable funding. This is in the interest of local institutions, SMEs, and civil organizations.
Third: equal access for all regions.
In a mountainous, less developed region, administrative and funding systems must not become barriers. This is not an ideological issue, but one of access and fundamental rights.
Harghita County received the EU “Regional Innovation Valley” status in June 2024, in the field of food safety innovation. This is an important recognition, but the title alone does not bring funding. The next step is to integrate this status into EU funds for the 2028–2034 period.
The EU’s next research framework program will come into force in 2028. The decision-making window is opening now. Those who are not involved now will later only implement decisions.
Why is this important for Harghita?
Because local infrastructures must be integrated into European research networks. EU research funds must be used where people live and work.
This is Harghita. This is about local institutions and businesses.
Simplification means that in the next programming period, institutions from smaller, less developed regions will truly be able to apply for funding. But for that, we must act now.
What I initiate in Brussels must be continued in Bucharest. If we adopt good rules at the European level but fail to ensure they are implemented in Harghita, we risk falling behind again.
We do not want two Europes in research. We want one — where Harghita also has its place.
