Brussels, 16/12/2004 (Agence Europe) - In conclusion of its debate on the strategic political guidelines of the Barroso Commission (see EUROPE of 15 December, p.10), the European Parliament on Thursday adopted a joint resolution by the EPP-ED, PES, ALDE and UEN groups (284 in favour, 154 against and 17 abstentions), in which it indicates what it (or, at least, the majority of its members) consider should be the priorities for the legislative period 2004-2009. The Parliament is thus laying out its own ideas before President Barroso presents a more detailed programme, at the plenary of 26 and 27 January in Brussels.
In the chapter on a more competitive Europe ensuring more cohesion, the plenary will take position on a revision of the Stability Pact, to give it the flexibility it needs to exploit Europe's growth potential without compromising price stability. In the same chapter, the Parliament stresses the need for adequate funding of EU policies. On an area of liberty, security and justice, it especially hopes that the fight against terrorism will not be fought at the price of fundamental rights, and that the common asylum policy will go hand in hand with an active integration policy. The other chapters relate to the role of Europe in the world, quality of life and a Europe closer to its citizens.