Brussels, 08/02/2006 (Agence Europe) - The seventh EU research framework programme should support the funding of research projects in the cultural sphere. This was the message sent on 6 February by the European Popular Party-European Democrats (EPP-ED), following a public hearing organised on the initiative of Spanish MEP Cristina Gutiérrez-Cortines. Investment linked to the protection of cultural heritage not only preserves tourist activities, which employ millions of people, it also contributes to the sustainable development and protection of the environment, stressed the experts who were present. “The European Union should make more provisions in its budget for the conservation of historical heritage, as culture is not only the best foundation for all Europeans but also a source of economic wealth, jobs, social integration and a way to contribute to sustainable development and the preservation of the environment,” commented Mrs Gutiérrez-Cortines. The seventh R&D framework programme should make greater funding available to support universities, museums and other cultural institutions in restoring historic buildings. Encouraging the development of new restoration techniques in the cultural sector means supporting research in other sectors, insisted the experts, referring, as an example, to the new techniques employed in the restoration of stained glass windows in cathedrals which provided the basis for the research on the vitrification of nuclear waste.
The European Union has 60% of the world's cultural heritage sites, and, because of this, is a favoured destination for tourists whose spending contributes to the wealth of the EU. “If we want to preserve this source of economic wealth and jobs and also contribute to protecting our cultures and our environment, the EU should make an effort in this research field,” concluded Mrs Gutiérrez-Cortines.