Specific research programme: advanced communications technologies and services (1994-1998)

The purpose of this proposal for a decision is to establish a specific RTD and demonstration programme in the field of advanced communication technologies and services for the period 1994-1998. - Amount deemed necessary: ECU 630 million. - General objective of the programme: to perfect advanced communications systems and services which will contribute to economic and social cohesion in Europe, taking account of fast-developing technologies, changes at the regulatory level and the potential to develop advanced trans-European networks and services. The main technological development activities will come under the following six fields of research: - multimedia and interactive services; - phototonic technologies; - high-speed networks; - mobility and personal communications networks; - intelligent networks and service engineering; - quality, security and reliability of telecommunications services and systems. Participation in the programme is open, with financial support from the Community, to all legal entities established in the Community or in an associated country following an agreement with the said third country, and to the Joint Research Centre. The programme will be implemented through shared cost actions, concerted actions, specific measures and accompanying measures relating to international cooperation, the dissemination of results and the training of researchers and users. The Commission is authorised to start negotiations with a view to concluding international agreements with third European countries, in order to associate them with all or part of the programme.�