Environment: 6th Community action programme 2001-2010

The Commission broadly welcomes the Council's common position on the sixth community action programme. A general deadline for the preparation of implementing proposals is included in the common position whilst at the same time, (to the Commission's satisfaction), not setting a detailed work programme for the Commission. The Commission believes that the common position now represents an ambitious, credible and strategic policy approach with sufficiently defined obligations to ensure the commitment of all parties, not only at institutional level but also from stakeholders, Member States and candidate countries. Accordingly, the Commission urges the quick adoption of the programme so that work can begin as soon as possible.�