Towards the Spring Council: Ministers discuss education, competitiveness 21-02-2007 Ministers have reiterated the key role that education plays, together with
increased spending for research, towards achieving the Lisbon strategy goals of
more competitiveness and sustainable economic growth. The Competitiveness
Council discussed such issues as reducing the administrative burden and
sustainable transport. It supports the Commission’s plan to draft a green paper
on clean urban transport.
The Education, Youth and Culture Council restated the importance that
investing in education and training will play in Europe's future and the Lisbon
strategy. In this respect, the Council urged the full use of the Structural
Funds and the Lifelong Learning Programme 2007-2013. The Education ministers
also discussed the future of 'Education and Training 2010 ' work programme and
topics that European education policy should address beyond 2010. As to future
perspectives, the ministers reflected, for example, on the expansion of early
childhood education and the further strengthening of lifelong learning.
The Competitiveness Council welcomed the Commission’s plan to draft a green
paper on clean urban transport. According to the Council, urban transport
problems must be tackled in order to improve the quality of life, the
environment and the economic performance of urban areas.
Source: EurActiv Files back |
