COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION:Council focuses on climate, energy and GMOs

The EU environment ministers discussed the 2030 policy framework for climate and energy and exchanged views on a proposal concerning genetically modified organisms (GMOs).

Ministers agreed that the debate on the 2030 framework was necessary asinvestors, businesses and citizens want clarity and predictability with regard to future climate and energy policies.

"The proposed 2030 policy framework is a sound basis for discussion. We had a very interesting and useful first round of exchange of views with environment ministers that will be continued tomorrow with our energy colleagues," said Yannis Maniatis, Greek minister for environment, energy and climate change, who chaired the meeting.

The aim of the Commission's proposal for a policy framework for climate and energy in the period 2020-2030 is to drive continued progress towards a low-carbon economy and a competitive and secure energy system.

The presidency will report on the outcome of the ministerial discussion to the President of the European Council. Climate and energy will be among the issues discussed at the European Council meeting of 20-21 March 2014.

Commission communication on a 2020-2030 policy framework for climate and energy