Structural policies focusing on employment: regional programmes 1977-1999, objective 2

As a follow-up to Agenda 2000, the Commission proposed the creation of a new Objective 2 to cover areas undergoing socio-economic change in the industrial and services sectors, declining rural and urban areas and areas in crisis which are dependent on fisheries. The aim is to support the economic and social redevelopment of regions affected by a structural crisis. The rapporteur, Joan VALLVÉ, has called on the Commission to give priority to the competitiveness and development of SMEs, the environment, sustainable development, R&D, innovation and equal opportunities.�