The press file provides examples of research currently in progress. I would like to highlight one, which illustrates perfectly the technological jump that nanotechnology can generate. As you know carbon is used in the batteries, as an electrode material. The carbon nano-tubes make it possible to increase the useful surface area of these electrodes by a factor 10 or 100, with an equivalent effect on the capacity of the batteries. In the new economy, capital and knowledge are the motors for growth and quality of life.
Economic growth derives straightforwardly from technological leadership.
Scientific effort produces knowledge, but it is technology that allows its implementation and its application in the sectors of production and of the services. The research is at the centre of it all. In face of the challenges of today, research must play a central role to stimulate the economy and to improve the daily life of the Citizens. The attraction of scientific careers and the visibility of science to young people have to be improved. And it has to be clear that science and the science policy have to be aligned with the needs of society, those of today and those of tomorrow.