R&I key to growth, says Moedas

The next European commissioner for research, science and innovation has cited the importance of his role in encouraging economic growth and the creation of new jobs.

Carlos Moedas made the statement following the announcement of the new College of Commissioners by President-elect Jean-Claude Juncker. In comments carried in the Portuguese press, Moedas said: “Innovation and research are key to the growth that we want in Europe: sustainable growth that promotes Europeans’ quality of life. These areas are the key to our increasing the productivity and dynamism of our companies, to competing with excellence and not with low costs.”

Part of Moedas’ role will be to oversee the running of the EU’s largest-ever research and innovation programme, Horizon 2020, as well as one of the biggest directorate-generals in the European Commission, DG Research and Innovation, which has an estimated 3,000 employees.

Moedas will now need to be confirmed to the post by MEPs before taking over from Máire Geoghegan-Quinn. It’s anticipated he will begin his work at the start of November.