The Regional Dimension of the European Research Area (2001)

The importance of actions at regional level in order to encourage the creation and growth of innovative enterprises, and to improve the operation of key interfaces in the innovation system, was recognised in the Communication that urged a coherent approach to strengthening these interfaces in Member States’ regional innovation strategies. This Communication was also well-received by other Community bodies, the Committee of the Regions noting that “local governments should actively be encouraged to mesh their policies with policies operating at national and European levels to ensure a strong, united and transparent framework for the promotion of innovation”.