Seville summit calls for removal of barriers to 3G mobile communications networks
The European Council called for the removal of barriers to third generation (3G) mobile communications networks and endorsed the Commission's action plan for eEurope 2005 at its meeting in Seville, Spain, on 21 and 22 June. In addition to instructing relevant administrations to overcome difficulties in the deployment of 3G mobile communications networks and services, the EU's Heads of State and Government invited the Commission to report to the Copenhagen Council on the remaining barriers to open platforms in digital television. Outstanding barriers to the development of e-commerce and e-government should also be outlined by the Commission in Copenhagen, the Council agreed. The Council gave their support to the eEurope 2005 action plan as 'an important contribution to the Union's efforts towards a competitive, knowledge-based economy.' It called upon all relevant institutions to ensure that the plan is fully implemented by the end of 2005, and invited the Commission to present a mid-term review at the spring 2004 European Council evaluating progress made. If necessary, the Commission should make proposals to adapt the action plan at this point, the Council agreed. The European Council also invited the Council of Ministers to implement the biotechnology strategy proposed by the Commission.
Countries
Spain