Brussels, 08/01/2010 (Agence Europe) - On Thursday 4 February, the European Commission is to hold a conference in Brussels on the theme “new skills for new jobs”. On this occasion, it will present recommendations made by the high level group of experts responsible for this issue, as well as new figures on skills supply and demand in Europe until 2020. In its press release announcing the event, the Commission underlines that the conference comes as the Barroso II Commission is shaping up the EU 2020 Strategy, which is to follow the Lisbon Strategy. According to the group of experts, far more robust bridges must be built between the world of work and that of education and training. This, the Commission believes, is of particular importance at a time when, despite the crisis, several million posts are still vacant as the ideal candidate is sought. Furthermore, over the next 10 years, it will be necessary to create 80 million posts as post holders retire, and 20 million new jobs must also be created, often requiring more specific and greater skill and knowledge than before. The Commission believes that the acquisition of new skills and abilities allowing full advantage to be taken of the economic recovery is not only a priority but also a challenge that must be raised. It is also important from the equity point of view, as the least qualified are the most vulnerable on the job market. However, the Commission reiterates, this is not enough - supply and demand for skills must be better matched on the labour market. That is why member states have called for a report on the need for skills in Europe ahead of 2020. (G.B./transl.jl)