We can achieve the Lisbon objectives, says Zapatero
The European Union can become a global power within 20 years if it invests more in education and carries on along the path of economic growth, says Spanish Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero. Ahead of bilateral consultations on 8 November with German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder, the Spanish Prime Minister spoke of the importance of maintaining economic growth and social cohesion in an interview with German journal Der Spiegel. 'If (Europe) succeeds in being dynamic and productive, which implies greater investment in research and education, then the European Union will without any doubt become a driving force,' Mr Zapatero told Der Spiegel. Asked about Mr Prodi's comment on the failure of the Lisbon objectives, Mr Zapatero insisted that the answer lies in increased expenditure in research and development (R&D) and education. 'Europe has to believe that it can, in 20 years, turn itself into the most important power of the world.' 'The important thing is to support economic growth and social cohesion,' added Mr Zapatero calling on Germany to regain confidence and return to being Europe's 'great locomotive'. 'Spain wants to build the future of Europe with the Germans and the French,' the Spanish Prime Minister told Der Spiegel. 'We have never had such good relations with both countries.'
Countries
Germany, Spain, France