Brussels, 30/09/2008 (Agence Europe) - In a report adopted on 23 September, the EP gave its support to the European Commission's plan to make 2009, “European Year of Creativity and Innovation”. Rapporteur, Katerina Batzeli (PES, Greece) was delighted, “We are sending a clear message that Europe is taking the cultural dimension more into account”, adding, that a commitment from all social partners, SMEs, education and training centres at all levels would help guarantee appropriately developed programmes. Europe has to stipulate its capacity to create and innovate, for social and economic reasons. In this perspective, the European Commission adopted on 31 March 2008, a proposals proclaiming 2009 the “European Year of Creativity and Innovation”. Parliament warmly welcomed this proposal and is proposing few amendments to the text but is eager to highlight the importance of all existing programmes likely to promote creativity and innovation in the EU and not only education and training programmes. The report mentions information society, culture, communication, as well as enterprise cohesion and rural development. MEPs also highlight the link that should be made with cultural diversity, the current European year theme (2008). As is the case with previous European years, measures will include awareness campaigns, events and initiatives at European, national, regional and local levels. European Year activities will be funded out of existing programmes. (I.L./trans/rh)