In line with the objective fixed by the European Council in March 2005, the European Commission has proposed to strengthen the contribution of cohesion policy to growth and jobs in the course of the period 2007-2013.
The Community Strategic Guidelines 2007-2013 pay particular attention to specific needs of certain zones, such as urban and rural areas. The guidelines encourage an “integrated approach” to Cohesion Policy so that it encourages not only growth and jobs, but also pursues social and environmental objectives.