Commission adopts guidance for Structural Funds The European Commission has adopted guidelines for the Structural Funds and their coordination with the Cohesion Fund for programmes in the period 2000-2006. Although these guidelines are not binding, they will be used as a basis for negotiations with Member States. Also, the... The European Commission has adopted guidelines for the Structural Funds and their coordination with the Cohesion Fund for programmes in the period 2000-2006. Although these guidelines are not binding, they will be used as a basis for negotiations with Member States. Also, they cover all structural instruments and the EC intends to circulate a vade mecum in the near future concerning the preparation of the plans. Of particular significance is Section E "Research, technological development (RTD) and innovation: modernising the productive base", which sets out clearly defined policy priorities for the next planning period in the following areas: - Promoting innovation; - Networking and industrial cooperation; - Developing human capabilities; - Consolidating RTD and innovation actions through effective policy management.
