Brussels, 28 th February 2003
European Research Commissioner Philippe Busquin will present the Green Paper on European Space Policy (COM(2003)17 final), as adopted by the Commission on 21 January 2003.
The Paper, prepared by the Commission in co-operation with the European Space Agency (ESA), looks into Europe's strengths and weaknesses in this sector. The report lays the foundation for broad consultation, to be held from 22 January to 30 May 2003, and tackles key issues such as the EU's independent access to space, scientific excellence in this field, and the industrial and technological base. The Paper also looks into relevant markets, human resources, the legal and institutional framework, international co-operation, and environmental and security issues.
The Paper attempts to launch a debate with all parties - national and international organisations, the EU space industry and users, scientific community and citizens. The consultation will help shape an EU response to competitiveness and security challenges concerning space, to be detailed in a forthcoming White Paper due out later this year. As part of the consultation, the Commission has organised a launch event on 6 March in Brussels followed by a series of workshops running until June.
Extracted from DN: MEMO/03/45 Date: 28/02/2003