The First Vice-President of the European Commission, Teresa Ribera, highlighted in Brussels the role of Catalonia in building a more democratic and prosperous Europe. During the celebration of Europe Day, on the occasion of the 40th anniversary of Spain's entry into the EU, Ribera emphasized that the autonomous communities, and particularly Catalonia, have been an example of integration and development.
Catalonia as a technological and industrial hub in the European ecosystem 🌍
Ribera noted that Catalonia is not only an industrial powerhouse but also leads key projects in innovation and digitalization within the EU. Its startup ecosystem, along with research centers such as the Barcelona Supercomputing Center, positions it as a strategic node for the development of clean technologies and energy transition. The region demonstrates that decentralization can boost European competitiveness without losing cohesion.
Brussels discovers that Catalonia exports more than just cava and tourists 🍾
While Brussels celebrated with speeches and flags, one MEP asked whether the praise for Catalonia also included its tradition of sending independence proposals to the wastebasket. Ribera, with the patience of someone who knows the independence process is no longer a big seller, replied that they prefer to focus on Industry 4.0. After all, it's easier to sell microchips than to explain why a unilateral referendum does not fit within the treaties.