Reinforcing cohesion and competitiveness through research and innovation - New CORDIS Web service
Developing research and innovation policy and infrastructure at regional level is vital to improving Europe's competitiveness and reinforcing cohesion. Efforts are needed at all levels, not least in the less favoured regions of the EU. In May 1998, the European Commission adopted a communication focusing on these issues, and as part of the follow-up to this a new Web service on CORDIS aims to raise awareness and encourage the exchange of ideas and experience. Local and regional authorities have a prime responsibility to reinforce the capacity of their territories to innovate and remain competitive. Knowledge is emerging as one of the most powerful factors in establishing a competitive advantage, with education, training, research and innovation becoming the primary assets of cities and regions. Aimed in particular at those regions lagging behind in economic development, the Commission has proposed a new approach, of establishing regional integrated strategies for research and innovation. The new Web service is aimed at encouraging the take-up of this new approach. It will inter-link local, regional and national authorities and the European Commission, and will help them access information and best practice in research and innovation. It will provide quick and easy access to relevant and up-to-date information, such as EU documents, academic studies, details of major events and links to related Websites. An interactive forum will provide the opportunity to contribute to discussions on specific issues in the field of regional development, research and innovation.