Brussels, 27/05/2005 (Agence Europe) - In response to a request from the European Council of 22 and 23 March 2005, the Commission adopted on 25 May a draft Declaration on Guiding Principles for Sustainable Development and an accompanying Commission Communication which sets out the European Union's long standing commitment to sustainable development as a key principle of all its policies and actions. This initiative is a response to a request from the European Council. In March this year, the European Council asked the Commission for a proposal that could be adopted by the June 2005 European Council, to serve as a basis for renewing the Sustainable Development Strategy adopted in Gothenburg in 2001. The Declaration defines sustainable development as aiming at "the continuous improvement of the quality of life on earth of both current and future generations, ensuring all people's enjoyment of their fundamental rights and freedoms". It lists the key objectives as a strong economy, social equity and cohesion, environmental protection, and meeting the EU's international responsibilities. The Commission notes that the policy-guiding principles cover fundamental rights, equity within and between generations, openness, involvement of citizens, businesses and social partners, policy coherence between all levels, integrating economic, social and environmental considerations, using best available knowledge, taking a precautionary approach, and making polluters pay. The Guidelines should help the EU create a better quality of life of all, now and in the future. Commission President José Manuel Barroso commented: "These principles set out our broad long term vision for Europe's future. Sustainable development aims to safeguard our environment, preserve social cohesion and promote economic prosperity. We see our future in a global context and pursue our efforts on sustainable development at home and internationally."