Cypriotische minister maakt speerpunten industrie-, toerisme-, energie- en handelsbeleid bekend (en) - Montesquieu Instituut

Minister of Commerce, Industry and Tourism Mr. Neoklis Sylikiotis, who is also responsible for the energy portfolio, presented in Brussels, over the past two days, his ministry’s priorities during the Cyprus Presidency at the Legal Affairs (JURI), Internal Market and Consumer Protection (IMCO), Industry, Research and Energy (ITRE) and International Trade (INTA) committees of the European Parliament.

Modernisation of the legal framework for Intellectual Property Rights

Presenting the Presidency’s priorities regarding Intellectual Property Rights and Company Law, Minister Sylikiotis emphasized the need for cooperation between the Council and the European Parliament.

He said that modernization of the legal framework for Intellectual Property Rights is identified by Europe 2020 Strategy as a prerequisite for boosting the competitiveness of the EU’s innovative industry, stressing that the Cyprus Presidency will advance relevant dossiers the best way forward. Minister Sylikiotis emphasized the importance of concluding the patent package as soon as possible in close cooperation with the European Parliament. Furthermore, he underlined that continuous improvement and harmonization of the rules on company law and corporate governance contribute greatly to improving the business environment, promote economic growth and make it easier for enterprises to compete successfully in global markets.

Emphasis on the single market

Minister Sylikiotis also presented the priorities and actions to be undertaken during the Cyprus Presidency on the issues of the Internal Market, Consumer Policy and Technical Harmonization. With the aim of achieving the Presidency’s goal for a “Better Europe”, primarily for its citizens, he stressed that the Council will cooperate closely with the European Parliament to successfully handle the important dossiers included in the Trio’s program, such as the Single Market Act I and II, Public Procurement, Professional Qualifications, the Accounting Directives and Alternative and Online Dispute Resolution.

Boosting entrepreneurship

Speaking about entrepreneurship and industry, Mr. Sylikiotis underlined that Cyprus’ emphasis regarding competitiveness will be on growth, through the promotion of crucial policies such as the Program for the Competitiveness of Enterprises and Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (COSME).

Minister Sylikiotis also pointed out that the Cyprus Presidency will support the EU’s new approach to industrial policy, as a driver for economic growth, job creation and prosperity in Europe.

Promotion of the Trans-European Energy Infrastructure

In relation to energy issues, the Minister stressed that high on the agenda of the Cyprus Presidency is the promotion of the Trans-European Energy Infrastructure, as well as the Safety of Offshore Oil and Gas Prospection, Exploration and Production Activities. Additionally, he talked about the importance of the “Energy Star” Community Energy Efficiency Labelling Program towards achieving 20% energy savings by 2020, whereas for the further penetration of Renewable Energy Sources, Mr. Sylikiotis proposed the commencement of the examination of possible policy options and goals for the year 2030.

International trade crucial for growth

“International trade can play an important role in reversing the effects of the current economic crisis, since it is a pillar of strategic importance for growth and the recovery of the economy”, Minister Sylikiotis pointed out before the members of INTA committee. Furthermore, he referred to a number of important trade agreements and partnerships with major economic partners of the EU, such as the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership, the EU-Canada Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement, an EU-China bilateral investment agreement and, finally, Free Trade Agreements between EU and Japan, the US and Singapore.