The Italian candidate for European Commissioner, Raffaele Fitto, was today confirmed as Executive Vice-President for Cohesion and Reforms by the coordinators of the European Parliament's committees.

For the first time, this pivotal portfolio is being led by an Executive Vice-President, underscoring its significance in the European Commission’s priorities. The European Conservatives and Reformists Group in the European Parliament, of which Mr Fitto was Co-Chair from 2019 to 2022, extends its congratulations to Mr Fitto on his appointment.

The ECR is particularly pleased by the commitments he outlined during his hearing on Tuesday last week. Mr Fitto emphasised the need to work closely with regional and local authorities in managing cohesion funds, making clear his dedication to addressing regional and social disparities through targeted investments and reforms. He also outlined plans for simplifying administrative burdens, enabling beneficiaries—especially small and medium-sized enterprises—to access funds more efficiently. Additionally, Mr Fitto pledged to verify the impact of cohesion policy on the ground by visiting a wide range of territories, from cities and rural areas to islands, outermost regions, and inland territories. These commitments demonstrate his determination to ensure that every euro of EU funding delivers tangible benefits and that regions most in need receive the best possible support.

ECR Co-Chairman Nicola Procaccini said:

“I am delighted that Raffaele Fitto has been confirmed to lead a significant and impactful portfolio in the next Commission—a portfolio that, for the first time, truly acknowledges the importance of this key area of EU action. The plans Mr Fitto outlined during the hearing send a strong message to European regions grappling with economic or demographic challenges. I am confident they can rely on him.

“Mr Fitto has consistently emphasised the importance of involving local and regional authorities in managing the Cohesion Fund. With his extensive experience in regional development policy, including as a national government minister and regional president of Puglia as well as a Coordinator and MEP in the Committee on Regional Development and Member of the Committee of Regions, I am certain he will be a reliable and invaluable partner to all of Europe’s regions.”

ECR Co-Chairman Joachim Brudziński stated:

“I extend my sincere congratulations to Raffaele Fitto on his confirmation. The Commission is gaining a competent and highly respected individual who exemplifies common sense and balance. With his extensive political experience and his impressive track record as an Italian minister in the effective management of European funds, Mr Fitto is exceptionally well-qualified for this role.

“Raffaele Fitto has demonstrated a clear commitment to strengthening cohesion policy, cutting red tape, and simplifying administrative procedures, which was evident during the hearing. His approach to involving regional actors more closely and ensuring that European taxpayers’ money is used efficiently to deliver concrete results was particularly noteworthy. As Executive Vice-President for Cohesion and Reform, he is undoubtedly in the right place.”