European Space Policy (Extract from press release on Preparation of the Competitiveness Council of 29/30 May 2006)

Brussels, 24 May 2006

Tuesday 30th May

With the increase in environmental monitoring, navigation systems, weather forecasting, toll collection, early flood warnings. - the role that space plays in our daily lives is increasing. Taking the full economic impact of space applications into account, the European Commission outlined the first elements for a European Space Policy, in May 2005. The communication identified the roles and responsibilities in space policy of the EU, Member States, the European Space Agency (ESA) and other stakeholders and the relevant funding sources and instruments. It also specified priorities, funding principles and an approach to developing a broad industry policy for Europe as a whole. The Commission will inform Ministers of progress to date.

Item source: MEMO/06/215 Date: 24/05/2006