Brussels, 27/09/2004 (Agence Europe) - After an exchange of views on the ITER project (see below) EU ministers for research meeting last Friday at the Competitive Council adopted as expected (EUROPE 23 September p 9) a range of conclusions on the future of Community research and nano-technology.
In light of evaluation of new instruments from the 6th framework research and development programme of the EU (PCRD) piloted by professor Marimon, the Council launched an appeal for the continuity between 6th and 7th PRCDs, while insisting on maintaining a balance between the new instruments (integrated projects and networks of excellence) and traditional instruments. Ministers also requested the implementation of corrective measures for the 6th and 7th programmes, measures focusing on the clarification had classification of instruments and their objectives, the clarification of the concept of "critical mass", improvement of industry's participation, particularly SMEs, as well as improving procedural rules for using new instruments and a broader introduction of evaluations procedures into two phases.
On the future of the research policy, the Council recommends strengthening existing ties between the FPRD and European intergovernmental organisations such as Eureka and COST. In its conclusions, its also takes note of the main objectives identified by the Commission: creation of centres of excellence via collaboration between laboratories, the launch of targeted European technological initiatives, stimulation of creativity by ideas-sharing between independent teams at European level, development of the EU's attractiveness to scientists from all over the world and research infrastructures of interest to Europe, improved coordination of national research programmes and taking specific actions into account in terms of space and security. The ministers agreed to organise an in-depth debate on the characteristics of the 7th FPRD at their session on 25 and 26 November.
Lastly, the Council adopted concluding approving the European Commission's request to define a European strategy in the field of nanotechnology. It calls upon the Member States to “substantially reinforce research, development and innovation in favour of nanotechnology (…), whilst ensuring maximum efficiency and synergy at European level”.