Brussels, 17/02/2009 (Agence Europe) - “Boosting Europe's knowledge economy” was the topic of the first Brussels debate of the European Year of Creativity and Innovation 2009. It focused on the knowledge society and on how Europe's creative potential can be channelled towards finding innovative solutions, products and services that can foster economic growth. Special focus was placed on the nascent European Institute for Innovation and Technology (EIT). The aim of the European Year of Creativity and Innovation 2009 is to promote creative and innovative approaches in different sectors of human activity, so as to better equip the European Union for the challenges ahead in a globalised world. The European Commission, together with the European Policy Centre (EPC), will be hosting a series of six thematic “Brussels Debates” throughout the 2009 European Year. The series of Brussels Debates will provide a platform for reflection and exchange of ideas and contribute to policy discussion on creativity and innovation. The subsequent debates will shift the spotlight towards other topics, such as education, the public sector, sustainable development, cultural diversity and creative arts and industries. (I.L./transl.rt)