Rehn calls for research and innovation support

Research, innovation and education are essential for restoring European competitiveness, said Olli Rehn, European Commission vice president responsible for economic and monetary affairs, in a parliamentary address in Brussels yesterday (29 January).

He said it is imperative to reverse the losses in competitiveness occurring in many countries in order to create jobs and foster sustainable economic growth. “To drive job creation and productivity, we need to support research and innovation, education and training,” he said. “We need to stimulate entrepreneurship and private investment. We need to complete the financial repair to boost the flow of credit to households and SMEs.”