Brussels, 17/05/2002 (Agence Europe) - With the adoption of the report by Juan Ojeda Sanz (EPP-ED, Spain) on the trans-European cooperation project for higher education (Tempus III, 2000-2006), the European Parliament supports the text proposed by the Commission (see EUROPE of 17 April, p.15), with a few amendments. The Parliament thus considers that: - funding intended for the Tempus III programme, including its extension to countries and territories covered by the MEDA Regulation should be taken from the overall financial budgets of corresponding geographical programmes; - balanced representation of women must be considered a priority for reform of higher education; - encouragement must be given to the participation of political decision-makers in civil society and in the opening of intercultural dialogue promoting understanding and peace between peoples; - to facilitate exchange with third countries, the creation of common courses must be promoted, adapted to cultural diversity and to the new socio-economic imperatives of eligible countries.