The Council acknowledged that the Digital Agenda for Europe can provide Europeans with better health care, safer transport, new media opportunities and easier access to goods and services. The digital economy should therefore be encouraged.

Removing barriers to the development and use of information and communications technologies (ICT) is one of the ways to improve the EU's competitiveness. The Council backed the main priority actions proposed, such as

● development of a digital single market based on high-speed internet access and interoperable applications for the benefit of European businesses, in particular SMEs, and consumers

● reinforced online security to increase trust and confidence in cyberspace

● use of digital content and tools in education and learning, by enhancing digital literacy and skills with improved accessibility for all, especially disabled persons

● increased research and development in ICT.

The agenda is one of the seven flagship initiatives under the Europe 2020 Strategy for smart, sustainable and inclusive growth. The strategy aims to tackle bottlenecks and develop an economy based on knowledge and innovation, promoting a more efficient and greener economy and fostering a high-employment economy delivering social and territorial cohesion.

 

More information:
Council conclusions 
Webcast of press conference