City leaders met in Cyprus. They want to change how EU plans are made. A conference called Cyprus Forum Cities happened. EU capital city mayors also met. Both groups want cities to have more power.
They made a paper called the Nicosia Declaration. It says cities must help decide how EU money is used. This is for the next EU budget.
Oxygen for Democracy helped organize the event. They looked at city problems and chances. Many people came to the meeting. They shared ideas.
Mayors say cities fix everyday problems. They fix roads and help with homes. So, mayors think cities should be in EU plans. They said cities must be involved early.
The Nicosia Declaration tells the EU these ideas. It asks for cities to help decide about EU money. Mayors say current rules are too slow. They want easier rules for city projects. They want EU money for homes and better neighbourhoods.
This work by city leaders is important. If the EU listens, plans can work better. Money can help people more. Cities will be more important in Europe.