Brussels, 31/05/2011 (Agence Europe) - The main points of a space strategy that benefits citizens and the extension of the Euratom programme on nuclear research were at the heart of the discussions among ministers meeting for the second day of the Competitiveness Council on Tuesday 31 May. Ministers adopted conclusions on the development of the European Research Area and on evaluation of the research programmes Eurostars for SMEs and Ambient Assisted Living for older people.
Space strategy. In their conclusions, ministers reaffirmed the priorities of the space strategy, which are the EGNOS and Galileo satellite navigation programmes and the GMES (Global Monitoring for Environment and Security) programme. Ministers call for efficient management so that the economic and social impact can be maximised through appropriate measures, including through development of commercial applications downstream. Other matters discussed were the security of space systems, the prospects opened up by space exploration (greater European independence), the impact of this strategy on research and innovation, the competitiveness of businesses, and its international dimension (working with other powers).
Euratom programme. Ministers discussed the proposal that the current Euratom framework programme, due to expire at the end of 2011, be extended by two years. Discussion was given in this context to initiatives on fission energy (ITER programme), fusion (improving safety, other applications in industry and medicine) and the activities of the Joint Research Centre (JRC). The proposal provides for a maximum of €2.5 billion for implementation of the framework programme. (F.G./transl.rt)