The CoR is ready to develop digital platforms - based on the success of its COVID-19 online Exchange Platform - to help theEuropean Commission support local economy, SMEs, tourism and digitalisation.

 Based on this successful example, CoR members proposed Commissioner Breton to jointly promote the digitalisation and the innovative use of digital platforms to support the European Commission's work in strategic fields as transport, tourism, social and education services.The assembly of EU regions and cities, also asked for a stronger support to relaunch the tourism industry, highlighting in particular the vital role of regional airport and of the airlines that connect them. Regional and local leaders stressed that the pandemic boosted the adoption of digital and innovative solutions but, at the same time, made visible persisting massive digital gaps.

The online Exchange Platform, made available since March to regional and local authorities across Europe, has collected so far more than 250 contributions, inputs and suggestions on how to best manage the emergency and on how to foster economic and social recovery from a regional and local angle. Contributions can be sent to the functional mailbox: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.