European Union News - 07 May 2012

The European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) published its Triennial Work Programme (TWP) which outlines the EIT's priorities and activities planned on the basis of currently available input.

The EU reached an international agreement to update the Gothenburg Protocol according to a joint statement by the Danish EU Presidency and Commissioner Potočnik which welcomed this new agreement. There is also agreement to act on so called 'Black Carbon', a pollutant with short-lived climate forcing characteristics.

The report on the application of the Audiovisual Media Services Directive adopted by the Commission shows that, according to Vice President Neelie Kroes, the AVMS Directive is working, but also the need for further guidance on Connected TV (which is internet-enabled TV). Therefore, bearing in mind internet-driven changes, the Commission is launching a public consultation on Connected TV.

European regions and cities request a place-based approach to the thematic concentration of resources, a stronger flexibility in the definition of the funds allocation and clear rules for the involvement of regions and cities in defining operational programmes and partnership contracts through the four opinions adopted in plenary session by Members of the Committee of Regions.

The European Union and the United States of America formally agreed to recognise each other's safe traders, thereby allowing companies from EU and US to benefit from faster controls and reduced administration for customs clearance. The EU and USA are strategic trade partners, with imports and exports accounting for almost €500 billion in 2011. The joint decision will start to be implemented from 1 July 2012.