The new institution is to draw on resources already available in the south of France, including existing universities and research centers, telecommunications schools, and information-technology businesses located in the area. Mr. Jospin made the announcement Monday during a dedication ceremony for a semiconductor factory in the region. Bertrand Mabille, an adviser to the prime minister, said that plans should be clearer in June, when a project chief will be appointed to flesh out the government's ideas. The institute, which brings together some 750 researchers, engineers, technicians, and staff members, also gets money from private business. Bernard Larrouturou, chairman and C.E.O. of the institute, says he has been lobbying the government for increased appropriations for some time, in order to catch up with the United States.
Most European countries are behind.
It was about time that we stepped on the accelerator.