The European Commission has tabled a comprehensive plan of EU measures to boost growth and create more and better jobs by promoting knowledge and innovation and making Europe an attractive place to invest and work.
In todays Community Lisbon Programme the Commission announced that it will push to further open markets, cut red tape and invest in modern infrastructure so that our enterprises can grow, innovate and create new jobs. The Commission will take the necessary steps to support the development of a skilled and entrepreneurial workforce so that all Europeans can enjoy the benefits of a society with high employment, a high level of social protection and a healthy environment. The Commission will also step up the efforts to support education and lifelong learning to help more people achieve their full personal and professional potential and encourage entrepreneurship. The policies presented in todays Community Lisbon Programme cover areas where purely national action is insufficient.
This programme complements the efforts of Member States in the framework of the new Partnership for Growth and Jobs, who will present their national reform programmes in October 2005. It is only by the combined forces of the Commission, the European Parliament and the Member States that Europe can reach the ambitious goals set in the renewed Lisbon agenda.