Enlarged EU will be Union of 'knowledge, innovation and ideas', says Ahern
Bertie Ahern, President of the European Council, has told the World Economic Forum that the enlargement of the EU will strengthen European research. 'Enlargement will pose new challenges for the European economy. But with these challenges come exciting new opportunities: for growth, trade, tourism, and collaboration in research and knowledge networks. Our enlarged European Union will be a Union where knowledge, innovation and ideas will be the key resources for economic success,' said Mr Ahern on 24 January. Mr Ahern conceded that the EU is still a long way from becoming the world's most competitive economy - a goal set in 2000 - but outlined a number of areas, which, if prioritised, will help the Union achieve its objective. These include increased investment in physical infrastructure, education and training, and research and development (R&D); and ensuring that the citizens of Europe can respond to and exploit the opportunities offered by the knowledge-based economy. Mr Ahern also highlighted investment in research and lifelong learning as essential for raising productivity and providing more and better employment opportunities. 'We already know what needs to be done. We must stick to policies we have already identified and implement them with determination,' concluded Mr Ahern.
Kraje
Ireland