ESPON presented a new policy, brief drafted together with the Portuguese Presidency, today at the Directors-General Meeting on Territorial Cohesion that took place online. Under the title "Territorial evidence and policy advice for the prosperous future of rural areas," the policy brief aims "to connect ESPON territorial evidence with Territorial Agenda 2030 priorities through policy recommendations and policy responses" said the ESPON director, Wiktor Szydarowski.

The development and implementation will be supported by linking the Long-Term Vision for Rural Areas to the framework set out under the Territorial Agenda 2030, and by ensuring the distinct territorial dimension on the path for harmonious policy intervention", noted Mr Szydarowski.

The policy brief received warm comments from the Directors Generals, that considered the recommendations highly relevant and they pointed that some countries already follow some of ESPON's observations and advice in their national policies for the rural areas.