Comparing growth and employment policies
Authorities in the world’s great regions—from Asia and the Americas to the Middle East—are shaping economic policies to raise attractiveness and
competitiveness, honing their arguments to win over international investors and the talents of today and tomorrow. While the models they have developed cannot be applied directly in EU Member States and their regions, Europe can learn much from a clear analysis and the comparison of initiatives and results.
The response from La Baule–WIC
Each year, the La Baule Conference calls on the participation of four countries, including two from inside the EU and one from the Mediterranean area, and three regions as special guests. This is an opportunity for them to showcase their experience and policy options, and for all to learn from others’ successes.
In 2005, the special guest country was Japan, reflecting the Conference theme “From knowledge to value” and Japan’s key role as a driver of innovation in industry through companies in the electronics sector. Japan has also been very proactive in countering the shift in investment flows to low-cost countries.
Our other guest countries were EU members Finland and the Czech Republic in recognition of their know-how and dynamic approach to innovation.
La Baule-WIC also welcomes three European regions as guests. In 2005 Catalonia in Spain, the West Midlands in the UK and Wielkopolska in Poland were in the spotlight for presentations of key points in their growth policies.
The Euro-Mediterranean Partnership/Barcelona Process, was another focus of attention, in particular at a breakfast meeting chaired by Morocco’s Minister of Industry, Trade and Economy Upgrading.
The conference aims at
- Monitor FDI FLOWS
- Benchmark economic and social policies
- Understand international's investor's needs
- Link European region to the world
