Brussels, 27/08/2009 (Agence Europe) - Just one week before presentation at the European Parliament of the programme for the next five years, José Manuel Barroso said he was ready to open a consequential debate with the European Parliament on the future of Europe. “Now, more than ever before, we need a true partnership between these two institutions (European Parliament and European Commission), which have the responsibility to uphold Community matters”, he said during a press meeting on Thursday 27 August after a meeting with the recently appointed president of the EP, Jerzy Buzek (EPP-ED, Poland). Buzek stressed the need for the next Commission president to be designated as quickly as possible, especially on the eve of the Irish referendum (2 October) and entry into force of the Lisbon Treaty. “We must get organised as quickly as possible. The first step towards this is the appointment of the new president of the European Commission for the next five years”, Jerzy Buzek stressed, pointing out that there was “very strong support from the 27 member states for Mr Barroso”. “I expect and very much hope that the decision will be taken on 16 September”, he said. Answering questions, Buzek said he was confident the conference of presidents would reach a positive decision at the meeting on 10 September on including the vote for designation of the president on the agenda of the next plenary session. Mr Barroso, for his part, gave his assurance that he planned to strengthen the “very special bond” between the Parliament and Commission. He also underlined the need to face up to the challenges brought about by the economic crisis, especially unemployment, and to restore the viability and ethics of the financial system, transparency and the banking system, as well as growth and social cohesion. (ABy./transl.jl)