The Steering Platform is launched - the Information Office has started its operations - the first eJournal is published!

This issue aims at providing in-depth information on the launch of the Steering Platform and its aims. It features an article on international cooperation in the 7th European Framework Programme on RTD and includes a special focus on the thematic field of 'Health'. We have contributions from SEE-ERA.NET, which informs about the current project activities and George Bonas who reports on the ongoing IPA initiative. Inger-Ann Ulstein from Norway provides a summary of the Norwegian initiatives towards the Western Balkans and Anneliese Stoklaska gives an overview on the achievements of the Austrian EU-Presidency. We have the Albanian Ministry of Education and Science sharing their insight on the Albanian S&T system in the 'Country Focus' and the eJournal summer 06 is rounded off by event and book announcements.

We look forward to a lively dialogue on the topics of S&T in the Western Balkans and the European Union!

Elke Dall
Project Manager of the Information Office