Commissioners Bangemann and Cresson meet with representatives of European aerospace industries
Commissioner Martin Bangemann, responsible for industrial affairs, and information technologies and telecommunications, and Commissioner Edith Cresson, responsible for science, research and development, and education and training, met on 22 February 1995 in Brussels with members of the Council of the European Association of Aerospace Industries (AECMA). The Commissioners and the AECMA members (who are the presidents of the 11 major European aerospace manufacturing companies) emphasized the importance of increasing the competitiveness of European aerospace in world markets. Dr. Bangemann and Mrs. Cresson assured the industry that the Commission would continue to ensure fair international competition in this sector. In this context, they stressed the need to take account of the international situation facing the industry. Both Commissioners recognized the vital role of research and development for European aerospace, and invited industry to cooperate in implementing the EU's Fourth R&D Framework Programme. In order to promote greater coordination and obtain maximum benefits from cooperation with national research programmes, the Commissioners announced the establishment of a task force to coordinate aeronautics-related activities, to further increase the effectiveness of the EU's effort. The two Commissioners and the industry leaders held an exchange of views on the ongoing restructuring process worldwide and within Europe. Considerable progress had been made in restructuring various industry sectors within Europe, including regional aircraft and defence businesses. It was agreed that further efforts were necessary and that wherever possible, the Commission would support these continuing efforts at a Community level. The Commissioners also invited the industry leaders to participate actively in the implementation of the EU's information society proposals. Both sides recognized the overall benefits that could come from specific applications related to aerospace such as a Europe-wide system of air traffic management.