CREST guidelines : coordinating the research Framework Programme and the Structural Funds to support Research and Development

The Scientific and Technical Research Committee of EU (CREST) adopted the Guidelines on "Coordinating the Framework Programme (FP) and the Structural Funds (SF) to support R&D" at its 314th meeting in Essen on 7th May 2007. The Guidelines were elaborated by CREST under the leadership of the German Presidency in partnership with the Commission services in the context of OMC 3%. The Guidelines provided 14 recommendations in the six priority domains including the development of RTDI strategies. RTDI basis, research excellence, international cooperation; the exploitation of R&D results and improvement of communication. The Competitiveness Council adopted Council Conclusions in June 2007 on the CREST Guidelines. The Conclusions underline the importance of improved communication between actors involved in FP and SF activities and recall the six priority domains identified in the Guidelines.