Brussels, 29/01/2015 (Agence Europe) - On Wednesday 28 January, the European Commission project team in charge of the digital strategy (consisting of 12 Commissioners involved in the construction of the digital single market) met up for the second time, under the leadership of the vice-president in charge of this strategy, Andrus Ansip. The meeting sought to consolidate the priorities for the strategy, which will be presented in May. Speaking on his blog, Ansip explained, “We've already agreed the major priorities, so when we met up for the second time this week, our focus was more on digging deeper into specific areas that urgently need 'European' attention”. The Commission vice-president considers that the work has to be realistic, have a real impact and change the status quo, “this should not become a “catchall” strategy, in the sense that it promises and talks a lot... We have to be as targeted as possible and get the maximum benefit that we can”.
The Commissioners are examining a selective list of initiatives that are “concrete, solid and practical” on a European scale and which will have a positive impact and really make a difference to citizens and enterprise. This list still needs to be clearly defined and structured but it will involve sectors such as transport, energy and cities, in an effort to make them “smarter”. The goal is to improve the urban environment and make infrastructure more modern and efficient. Andrus Ansip highlighted the fact that “We are not developing strategy in a vacuum - but with people, for people and in the interests of all Europeans”. The Commissioners' team does expect blockages, however, because changes that need implementing could possibly be perceived in a bad light by some groups. Nonetheless he also explains that maintaining the status quo would be disastrous in the long term for consumers, enterprise, growth and competitiveness. He remains optimistic and states “ We have already received a lot of ideas and support, both from EU member states and from the European Parliament. I hope that this support will continue as we get down to the details”. Ansip promised to collaborate with all stakeholders, governments, enterprise and consumers and is inviting each of them to send in their comments online. Once the strategy has been finalised and published in May, he would like the European Parliament and Council of Ministers to reach a position as soon as possible. The ministers in charge of telecommunications will discuss this issue in June, during their next work session. (IL)