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Decisive step |
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In March 2003, following years of discussions, Ministers from EU Member States reached agreement on the proposed Community patent. But the patent will not come into operation fully until the end of the decade, and a number of technical hurdles remain to be crossed before 'one-stop protection' for inventors becomes a reality. |
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An EU market for defence equipment |
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The Commission argues that however divergent the views of Member States may be on foreign and defence policy, the time is right for EU action on defence procurement and research. A stronger European defence industry would help fulfil the European security and defence policy, and reinforce NATO. |
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Synergy is a new Slovenian word |
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Slovenia has made an important step towards a coherent innovation policy by rational organisation of its research activity. However, businesses and research institutes must share information, and different government departments must co-ordinate their functions if new initiatives are to be successful. |
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Are you ready for the networked world? |
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A recent report from the World Economic Forum presents a ranking of 'networked readiness' for over 80 countries across the world. Analysis of the results reveals that it is not enough to spend money - even lots of it - on new information and communication technologies. |
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Third-world lead? |
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The developing countries of Asia and Latin America are far ahead of Europe in starting new businesses, according to a recent survey of global entrepreneurial activity. But few start-ups have the potential to make an impact on jobs and growth, and a negligible number benefit from venture capital, with the vast majority reliant on informal funding. |
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May 2003 
M E N U