Brussels, 01/02/2002 (Agence Europe) - In New York, where he attended the World Economic Forum, Philippe De Bulck, the new Secretary General representing the voice of business in Europe, (UNICE) stressed in a declaration how important the role to be played by this Forum is. He said it gives the business world as well as society at large an "input for finding new directions" at a time when globalisation and anti-globalisation supporters are clashing more frequently, and the fundamental debate has not yet moved into full swing.
"After the successful introduction of the euro in Europe, European business now expects EU governments to show political will to go ahead with economic and structural reforms. These reforms are essential to boost Europe's economic potential in a global business environment", said Mr De Bulck. He felt discussions should now focus on what the future European economic and legislative framework should be and also on defining the areas in which Europe must move forward in order to compare competitively with other trading nations world-wide. In this context, concludes the UNICE secretary general, the Economic Forum in New York provides the opportunity to discuss the economic situation prior to the crucial EU spring summit to be held in Barcelona, when the EU 15 Heads of State and Government are to decide what they will do to achieve the goal of making the European economy the most competitive in the world by 2010.