Tania Friederichs (European Commission, DG Research, Directorate D1) reiterated that the operational terms and working conditions of the Platform should be determined in function of both input and output. The Platform is a “clearing house”, in which all interested stakeholders aiming to improve socio-economic development through research in this region should be actively involved (and not only the Commission). Based on the substantive input in the coming months, a follow-up will be considered. The possibility for additional means of support for the work of the Platform under FP7 is not excluded, while at the same time the existing infrastructure should be fully and synergistically used. In response to a question on additional stakeholders, the Commission agreed to involve business associations and chambers of commerce. The Joint Research Centers (JRC) also contribute to the Platform, which is open to further suggestions.

Information provided by Tania Friederichs, EC, DG Research

Article published in eJournal fall 06.