Brussels, 11/03/2008 (Agence Europe) - The Committee of the Regions (CoR) is also to forward its contribution to the new Lisbon strategy cycle at the European Council on 13-14 March. Entitled “European Regions and Cities - Partners for the Jobs and Growth Strategy”, the report is in line with the results of the Portuguese EU Council Presidency although emphasis is placed on the fact that towns and regions have little idea of the contribution that the Lisbon strategy can make to their development. The CoR states: “Increased ownership means that the different levels of government share the same priorities and act accordingly in a coordinated manner. This is possible only on the basis of a closer involvement of the regional and local authorities in the implementation, monitoring and evaluation of the national reform programmes”. The Committee also said it is willing to support a European-wide awareness campaign in cooperation with the European Commission to foster awareness and backing for the Lisbon strategy. The assembly felt that the strategy should be continued after 2010 “to ensure an EU-wide coordinated and inclusive policy of economic reforms for growth and jobs”. Finally, the Committee calls on the European Council to “provide the CoR with a regular mandate to report on the implantation of the Lisbon strategy and its follow-up”. (G.B.)