Filenews 22 August 2021 - by Xenia Tyrki
The Green Deal is the only solution for climate change and development, the European Commission's President, Ursula von der Leyen, is signalling in high tones, citing what is happening in the Mediterranean region with its direct impact on countries such as Cyprus, Greece and Algeria, which have recently experienced devastating fires.
In an exclusive interview with "F", the Commission's President underlines that the extreme weather conditions recorded around the world more and more often, require the adoption of a new strategy that will stop global warming, will lead to a new development model that will move towards a new circular economy, free from coal. Von der Leyen points out that the Green Deal, with a dynamic, democratic legitimacy, must be implemented by all collectively. It warns that the poorest will be the first victims of climate change to highlight the €72 billion Social Climate Fund that will support people on low incomes and investments with clean technologies.
The head of the Commission points out that Cyprus has huge potential for renewable energy sources, which means cheaper and more environmentally friendly energy. She believes that our country can pioneer in renewable energy sources. It sets the bar high for the obligation of the Cypriot state to increase the share of renewable sources by 33% by 2030 with European aid, while the Cypriot programme is targeting a 23% share.
Von der Leyen defends her proposal for the Green Deal, talking about unprecedented funding to ensure the green transition. For Cyprus she points out that she will get €2.5 billion. She stresses that the European Union wants Cyprus entirely by its side in the fight for climate change. The strong EU Lady notes that NextGenerationEU is a solid, comprehensive plan especially for Cyprus, which will bring growth, deepen, modernize and transform the Cypriot economy.
