This EU initiative was discussed by the Intermodal Council Working Party, chaired by an official from my Department, and subsequently by the Committee of Permanent Representatives. The conclusions were adopted by the Environment Council of 21st March 2013.
The Council conclusions welcomed this initiative and endorsed the Commission’s proposal to launch the Smart Cities EIP in the first half of 2013. It recalled the common principles regarding the governance of EIPs, in particular transparency, participation of Member States and avoiding duplication in line with the conclusions on European Innovation Partnerships adopted by the Competitiveness Council in May 2012 and in November 2010.
The Commission was invited to report to the Council by the end of 2013 on progress achieved in the Smart Cities EIP.