Brussels, 08/11/2007 (Agence Europe) - Following the discussions begun at the last European Council on the EU's ability to respond to the challenge of globalisation (see EUROPE 9527), on Tuesday 13 November, EU finance ministers will hold their first discussions on the Lisbon strategy's next three-year cycle (a decision will be taken the European Council in spring 2008). The Lisbon strategy for growth and jobs is a “key instrument” if the European economy is to perform well in the long term, say the draft conclusions to be adopted at the Ecofin Council.
The strategy, which was revised in 2005, is beginning to deliver and the integrated guidelines (for 2005-2008) have also played their part, accompanied, it is true, by favourable economic conditions, ministers will note. The Council shares the Commission's point of view, and believes that there is no need for any major overhaul of the integrated guidelines, since stability is important for the effectiveness of the Lisbon strategy. Consequently, the main focus of the new cycle will be the implementation and delivery of reform, which are likely to be many, the 27 stress. The four priority areas identified at the spring 2006 European Council still provide an appropriate framework for the strategy at both European and national levels: employment; knowledge and innovation; unlocking business potential; energy and climate change. Better implementation is needed in these areas, for example, through measures on the ageing population, the sustainability of public finances, labour markets and employment, productivity, the internal market and more.
The challenges and opportunities of globalisation must be fully taken into account in the external dimension of the strategy, as recommended by the Commission in its recent communication (see EUROPE 9515), the Council also says. The Council believes, too, that there is some room for strengthening the rationale and focus of action at Community level, to improve the consistency of the reforms and maximise the ripple effect that they create. A review of the Community Lisbon programme, which complements national action plans, the 2007 versions of which have all been submitted to the Commission (see EUROPE 9535), could bring an added value to the strategy, the conclusions add. It is highlighted how important it is for ownership of the Lisbon strategy to be taken within member states, and of the Community Lisbon Programme by the Council of the EU and the European Parliament. (A.B.)