Brussels, 29/01/2003 (Agence Europe) - "I'm very satisfied with the development and evolution of relations between the EESC and the Commission and the follow-up of the Co-operation Protocol signed by Presidents Prodi and Frerichs" (see EUROPE of 24-25 September 2001). This is what European Commission Vice-President Loyola de Palacio told the plenary of the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) on 23 January. She placed emphasis on the two institutions' acting upon the Lisbon Strategy, and stressed that, "with its opinions, the EESC is in a position better t help the Commission understand citizens' expectations, notably regarding European legislation". Presenting the Commission's 2003 work programme, Ms. de Palacio said that, "following the EESC's opinions on nuclear safety and the promotion of the internal energy market", the Commission was to make a package of proposals. As for maritime safety, Loyola de Palacio recalled the Commission's recent proposals, much welcomed by the new chair of the EESC's "Transport/Energy" section, Alexander-Michael von Schwerin (Germany, workers' group) and the Greek advisor representing the world of ship owners, Anna Bredima-Savopoulou.