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Brussels, 05 May 2006

The news:

• A conference to discuss the role of the regions in research will look at how the research potential of all Europe’s regions can be strengthened by bringing together regional authorities, universities, research centres, enterprises and other interested parties.
• For the first time, the Seventh Framework Programme explicitly addresses the research needs and potential of the regions. In addition, the programme will address the EU’s “convergence regions” (less developed regions whose GDP per capita is less than 75% of the EU average) and “outermost regions” (Azores, Madeira, Canary Islands and French overseas departments) in order to encourage their greater participation in EU research activities.
• The measures undertaken to achieve these aims could include twinning, networks for exchanging know-how and expertise, secondments, acquisition of research equipment and awareness raising activities.
• Commissioners Danuta Hübner and Janez Potočnik recently participated in a conference called "Research and Innovation - an Opportunity for Convergence Regions” which looked at the role of convergence regions in the EU’s research programme and also how these funds can be used to develop research and innovation within that region ( and ).
• Currently, structural funds support for research, technological development and innovation (RTDI) amounts to €10.5 billion in the form of grants. 97% of this support is made through the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and around 8% of total ERDF resources are invested into research and innovation.

The event:
Conference with Commissioner Potočnik for Science and Research, JM Silva, Director General of DG Research, JC Leygues Assistant Director General DG Regional Policy, I. Saragossi, DG Research and D. White Director of DG Enterprise at the Centre Borchette, Brussels. Time (tbc).

The sources:

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• European Commission website:

• Other websites:

The contacts:

Antonia Mochan + 32 2 296 9921 ; Marilyn Carruthers + 32 2 299 9451

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