EUKN - European Urban Knowledge Network - EU Presidency stresses importance of urban areas for competitiveness

EU Presidency stresses importance of urban areas for competitiveness

25-10-2006

The Finnish Presidency has organised a civil servant meeting on urban policy at senior official level in Lappeenranta on 24 and 25 October 2006. Aim is to improve cooperation in strengthening the competitiveness of urban regions, as well as cooperation in the field of welfare and innovation environments. This “EU Senior Officials’ Meeting” is held in conjunction with the annual national Urban Forum.

At the meeting, participants will discuss the national and EU objectives of urban policy, the role of cities and towns in developing regions and national economy, and creativity and innovation in developing urban areas.

During its EU Presidency, Finland stresses the role of urban areas as an engine for regional development, driving force for Europe's global competitiveness and as attractive places for people to live in. Of particular interest is the role of urban areas in implementing the Lisbon strategy. Member States have engaged in a lively discussion on this subject, and Finland wants to take this discussion forward during its Presidency. At the same time, Finland wants to present Finnish models for strengthening the competitiveness of urban areas. The themes raised by Finland build on the conclusions on urban policy drawn by previous Presidencies, particularly the Netherlands and Great Britain.

The meeting is organised by the Finnish Ministry of Interior and the City of Lappeenranta.

Conclusions of the meeting are not yet available. More information will be published on Finland’s EU Presidency website and the EUKN website as soon as available.

Source: Finland’s EU Presidency