The Greek Presidency notes with satisfaction today's announcement of the European Commission in Brussels, in which the Commission urges Member States to promptly recognise the importance of Industry for development and the creation of jobs in the EU and of incorporating the dimension of industrial competitiveness in all policy areas.

The Commission's remarks reflect to a large degree the Presidency priorities, particularly in

- the need to promptly promote policy proposals for the reduction of the cost of energy;

- the need to promote policy proposals on transport, space and digital communication networks;

- the application and imposition of legislation for the completion of the internal market;

- the modernisation of industry by means of investments directed to innovation, new technologies and new skills;

- easier access to financing;

- a more business friendly Europe, by means of simplifying the legal framework; and

- easier access to third country markets by means of harmonisation of international standards.

As the competent Minister for Development and Competitiveness of Greece, K. Hatzidakis, stated today from Brussels in his capacity as Chairman of the Competitiveness Council : “The recovery of European industry is a fundamental tool in the effort to bring Europe back to growth and the creation of sustainable jobs. The new Industrial Policy therefore constitutes a priority for the Hellenic Presidency and the Ministry for Development and Competitiveness and shall rank very high in the political agenda of both the Competitiveness Council this February and the Informal Competitiveness Council that will take place in Athens on My 12-13”.

It is noted that Industrial Policy shall also be discussed at the European Union summit on March 21-22.