Resolution on EU 2020

The Council took stock of the follow-up to be given to the spring meeting of the European Council as regards the EU's new strategy for jobs and growth.

At its spring meeting (25 and 26 March 2010), the European Council established a general framework for the new strategy, and set out further work to be carried out so as to enable it to adopt the strategy at its next scheduled meeting, on 17 and 18 June 2010.

The EU's existing strategy for jobs and growth, launched in Lisbon in March 2000 and renewed in 2005, was instrumental in setting the agenda for growth-oriented structural reforms in Europe but it fell short however on delivery. In view of the economic crisis that has developed meanwhile, and the challenges posed by ageing populations, increased inequalities and climate change, a new approach is now considered necessary.

The new strategy will be aimed in particular at:

• ensuring sustainable public finances whilst preserving investment and social welfare;
• establishing inclusive and efficient labour markets;
• promoting a sustainable economy;
• further strengthening the EU's internal market;
• fully exploiting the reciprocal benefits of foreign trade and openness.

Work will be taken forward within the various configurations of the Council in the run-up to the June 2010 European Council.