Brussels, 25/05/2007 (Agence Europe) - EU ministers of culture met on Europe Day at the Cannes International Film Festival to pledge their support for Europe's audiovisual industry at a time when it faces unprecedented change, driven largely by the impact of digital technologies and the resulting change in audience behaviour.
“Technological change and convergence is presenting the audiovisual industry with some tough challenges, but real opportunities lie in store for those that can best adapt,” said Viviane Reding, EU Media Commissioner. She said she was confident that “the political commitment expressed today will pave the way for the European audiovisual industry to become a powerhouse for Europe”. In a press release, the Commission pointed out the initiatives it has already taken to support the European audiovisual sector (MEDIA 2007 programme, European Film Online Charter, etc.) and announced that, this summer, it will publish two communications: one, in June, on content online, and the other, in July, setting out the steps it feels necessary to make mobile television a success in Europe. (oj)