Brussels, 07/11/2000 (Agence Europe) - In anticipation of the forthcoming publication of a communication on "science and society", there was a conference on "Genetics and the Future of Europe", in Brussels on 6 and 7 November. On that occasion, Commissioner Philippe Busquin rekindled the debate on citizens concerns and expectations in relation to the world of science, a subject on which, a few months ago, Mr. Busquin set up a High Level Scientific Working Party, chaired by Professor Axel Kahn. At a press conference with the members of this panel, Commissioner Busquin again placed emphasis on the need to "engage in a real dialogue with citizens" and the importance of the media in that context. Stressing that "the debate between society and scientists is an absolute imperative for society"", Prof. Kahn considered that scientists had to show educational ability, address and explain directly to the citizens the importance of research and the benefits that can be drawn from it.