ESC conclusions on cooperation with third countries in research
The Section for "Energy, nuclear questions and research" of the Economic and Social Committee (ESC) of the European Communities held a hearing on EU cooperation with third countries in the field of research in November 1996. The conclusions of the presidency of the ESC Section note the value of joint research activities, financed through Community funds, which not only encourage European industry to set up in third countries but also strengthen the role of the EU on the world stage. As different regions of the world have different priorities, however, a single strategy cannot meet every need. The Section concluded that, at this point in the preparation of the Fifth Framework Programme, it would be appropriate for the Community to seek to enhance cooperation with third countries in the field of research. The Section calls on the Commission to define a long-term strategy, dealing separately with each region of the world, and covering policy, technical and organizational questions. This should take account of both Community and third country priorities and should also include details of the implications on resources, both human and financial. Full use should be made of the opportunities offered by existing bilateral or regional cooperation agreements. In particular, candidate European countries should be able to participate on the same terms as EU Member States. Greater coordination with national research programmes should also be instigated. On the technical side, cooperation should focus on improving competitiveness and involving SMEs in the take-up of new developments; establishing research partnerships with the less developed countries; strengthening reciprocity with more developed countries and protecting intellectual property; and improving existing technology data banks and facilitating access to these. The conclusions also call for greater coordination between the Commission's Directorates-General, and improved transparency in and access to the management of programmes. Finally, the conclusions observe that although the Commission is prepared to meet these challenges, the EU's budgetary strategies must take into account the financial needs of these cooperative activities.