Enhancing competitiveness and growth (Extract from: Preparation of the Competitiveness Council, November 26)

Brussels, 25 November 2003

The Council will discuss the Initiative for Growth and the "Quick Start" programme associated with it. Following the debate, the Presidency seeks adoption of Council conclusions. The "Initiative for Growth" was endorsed by the October 16-17 European Council. On November 11, the Commission published a Communication (COM (2003) 690 final) to further elaborate on the "Initiative" and to define the "Quick Start" list.

The Initiative for Growth aims at encouraging Europe's economic recovery by focussing on transport infrastructures and major research projects. "QuickStart" research projects focus on space, nanotechnology, next-generation lasers, and hydrogen and fuel cells.

DN: MEMO/03/240 Date: 25/11/2003