Prologue

Research, technological development and innovation have become indispensable for the progress of modern societies at this onset of a new century.

For the past few years, the Generalitat de Catalunya -the Autonomous Government of Catalonia-, fully aware of such needs, has been dedicating considerable efforts to promoting the quality of investigative activity carried out by the universities, research centres and enterprises in Catalonia.

An instance of such sustained efforts was the creation in 1986 of the Interdepartmental Commission for Research and Technological Innovation (CIRIT), with the intention of co-ordinating the R+D activities carried out by different governmental departments. Subsequently, CIRIT was commissioned the elaboration of quadrennial Research Plans, as a result of a resolute policy to improve the Catalan system of science and technology.

During the past eight years, the first two Research Plans have played a dynamic role that has favoured an increase in the international competitiveness of our investigators. The present document contains the 3rd Research Plan for Catalonia (2001/2004), endorsed by the Executive Council of the Government of Catalonia at its meeting on the 6th February last. Its objective is to proceed along the path initiated by the two previous plans, and ensure that Catalonia takes a leap forward in the various aspects of research: basic, applied, innovative and technological development.

This leap forward is one of the key elements that will enable us to attain, preserve and emphasise our presence at the forefront of Europe.

I am sure that in order to meet this challenge we will be able to rely upon the collaboration of all those forming a part of our scientific and technological system, individuals and institutions both from the public and private sectors, and that between us we will succeed in granting Catalonia the place it deserves within the new society of knowledge.

Jordi Pujol
President of the Generalitat de Catalunya

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