Brussels, 23/05/2007 (Agence Europe) - Ministers meeting at the Competitiveness Council approved, on Tuesday 22 May, the principle of creating the future European Institute of Technology (EIT) in two stages: knowledge communities covering several specific areas (energy and climate change in particular) then their development after a first assessment of EIT activities. These knowledge communities would operate on the basis of a networking scheme between several universities and schools, and within the framework of public-private partnership. The German EU presidency was also able to note a very broad agreement on the compromise which gives the EIT considerable autonomy. It will now fine-tune its work, especially with regard to the finance-related aspects of the project (some €300 million). The presidency hopes to reach a political agreement during the Competitiveness Council of 25-26 June. (oj)