The European 2020 Strategy, designed to turn the EU into a smart, sustainable social market economy, must complement a reinforced Stability and Growth Pact and be part of the economic governance package. "We should focus on sound public finances. Fiscal stability is essential for growth and employment. Member States with the most prudent fiscal policies are now performing best. This is our key priority", said Corien Wortmann-Kool, Vice-Chairwoman of the EPP Group responsible for the Working Group Economy and Environment, in today's plenary debate with the Council and the Commission.

"We should enhance the EU's competitiveness through an ambitious legislative EU governance package with a strong Stability and Growth Pact, which is essential for economic growth and jobs and to prevent that the debt burden is put on our children and future generations", said Corien Wortmann.

"We urgently need a stronger and more transparent governance structure with accountable Member States for the implementation of the 2020 Strategy", she continued.

Corien Wortmann-Kool concluded: "The Economic Governance package, including an ambitious EU 2020 Strategy, should be the framework to deal with essential topics such as tapping the potential of the EU's single market, sustainable pensions systems, structural reforms to boost employment as well as balancing security and flexibility on labour markets."

For further information:
Corien WORTMANN-KOOL MEP, Tel: +33-3-88-175570
Eduard Slootweg, EPP Group Press & Communications Service, Tel: +32-475-721280

Notes to Editors:
The EPP Group is by far the largest political group in the European Parliament with 265 Members.