EU chief calls for action on growth, jobs

European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso on Friday called European Union (EU) leaders to turn growth and jobs promises into action.

"The Spring Council must send out a convincing message that we are set on a clear and consistent course which tackles the key challenges we face today," Barroso said in a letter sent to member states ahead next week's spring summit.

Barroso urged EU leaders to focus on actions, to boost education and research, unlock business potential, promote employment and set out the path to sustainable, competitive and secure energy in the 25-nation bloc.

The President of the EU executive office underlined that there is a frame "which can show citizens where we intend to act, and help to explain some of the key measures we intend to take".

"But to be taken forward effectively, we need to reach sharply focused conclusions and agree a number of key actions which will act as milestones for the future," he added.

Source: Xinhua