On 26 January 2011, Minister of National Development Dr Tamás Fellegi expounded the programme of the Hungarian Presidency of the European Union in front of three standing committees of the European Parliament in Brussels. During the hearings, the minister gave account of energy, regional development and climate policy priorities. The European Parliament’s committees supported the programmes compiled in these special fields.

During the hearings Dr Tamás Fellegi emphasised that every initiative and proposal made by the Hungarian Presidency aimed at the creation of a strong Europe able to overcome the effects of the economic crisis. He stressed Hungary’s readiness to co-operate with the institutions of the European Union, including the European Parliament in the interest of successful programme implementation.

In the morning the minister outlined the climate change policy plans to the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety Committee (ENVI). At the hearing he described the continuation of successful climate protection negotiations as the focus of effort. Resolute action by the European Union may be instrumental in achieving the earliest possible agreement on the post-2012 global climate regime. Making a success of the European Union’s own climate change programme could well improve the European economy’s competitiveness.

In the afternoon the minister gave a summary of the energy-related priorities to the Industry, Research and Energy Committee (ITRE). This body was also informed of the climate change concepts. Dr Tamás Fellegi set the development of a uniform and effective common energy policy, and the creation of energy security that guarantees payable services as the priority objectives in this field. The thematic session of the European Council to be held on 4 February 2011 will offer an excellent opportunity for consultation over the long-term plans.

In front of the Regional Development Committee (REGI) Dr Tamás Fellegi outlined the objectives related to regional development policy. In this field the key question is if progress can be made in the debate over the future directions of Cohesion Policy. If reasonably updated to increase its efficiency and effectiveness, Cohesion Policy can be highly instrumental in the convergence of the regions falling behind.

At his hearing before the Transport and Tourism Committee (TRAN), Minister of State Dr Pál Völner gave account of the transport-related objectives on 25 January 2011, while Minister of State Dr Zsolt Nyitrai detailed the info-communication objectives before the Industry, Research and Energy Committee (ITRE) on 26 January 2011.

Each of the standing committees was in favour of the Hungarian Presidency’s programme and priorities.

(Ministry of National Development , Department of Communication)