EU Committee meets Education Minister

The purpose of the visit was to discuss the Danish EU Presidency which begins on January 1st 2012 and more specifically, the forthcoming negotiations on the new research and innovation framework programme Horizon 2020. The European Commission has recently presented its proposal for the programme.

A constructive dialogue between the Council of Ministers and the European Parliament will cover any potential hurdles early in the process so that during the Danish Presidency, negotiations can progress as much as possible. The programme is expected to be adopted at the start of 2013.

Morten Østergaard and the IRTE Committee exchanged views on some of the fundamental principles for the new programme. While focusing on great societal challenges, discussions included the need to maintain a criterion of excellence as a central element for research financing and developing a stronger link between research results and innovation activities.

They also discussed the need for greater simplification, trust and flexibility in Horizon 2020, not least for the sake of small and medium businesses to participate in the activities.

Morten Østergaard will continue his dialogue with the European Parliament on an on-going basis, including his visit to the Parliament in Strasbourg during the plenary session this December.

• See the Commission's website about Horizon 2020
• Read more about the EU's 7th framework programme for research (in danish)