Est. 1min 24-10-2003 (updated: 07-11-2012 ) Euractiv is part of the Trust Project >>> Languages: Français | DeutschPrint Email Facebook X LinkedIn WhatsApp Telegram In view of the upcoming enlargement, the Parliament on 23 October adopted a report on industrial policy in which it proposed an action plan focusing on restructuring and innovation. Read more with Euractiv China issues first EU policy paperIn a historic first diplomatic strategy paper on its policies towards the EU, the Chinese government has said it expects the EU to become its largest trading and investment partner. Subscribe now to our newsletter EU Elections Decoded Email Address * Politics Newsletters BackgroundThe Parliament welcomed the Commission's Communication on industrial policy in an enlarged Europe and emphasised that the goal of economic growth and modernization set out by the Lisbon agenda must focus on the backbone of the European economy - its industrial base. It states that especially in light of the upcoming enlargement and the big differences in the industrial fabric between current and new Member States, industrial policy must be addressed as a matter of urgency. The report, drafted by Olga Zrihen (PES, Belgium), highlights that the aim of the EU's industrial policy should be to realise the potential to be derived from expanding the European market to include millions of new consumers, workers and entrepreneurs. At the same time, the necessary adjustments and restructuring must be handled to the best possible effect. The Parliament therefore proposes an action plan which should focus on the following areas: incorporating the aims of industrial policy into all EU policies; pursuing sustainable development; harmonising national taxation systems that adversely affect the single market; strengthening the link between research and industry; promoting innovation, also for small and micro-businesses; facilitating access to finance for new businesses; encompassing the social dialogue; incorporating education, training, and skills.
