31/07/2003 - The 25 EU ministers for culture will meet from 28 –31 August to discuss future distribution and co-production strategies

“The circulation of European films within the European Union: support mechanisms and new technology” is the title of the four-day meeting of the 25 EU ministers for culture, scheduled to take place from 28-31 August, during the Venice Film Festival (27 August- 6 September).
The event is hosted by the Italian ministry for culture under the 6-month rotating EU presidency, currently entrusted to Italy and the representatives of the 15 member states will be joined by their 10 colleagues from the countries that enter the EU in April 2004.
The programme includes a two-day workshop (28-29 August), organised with EFAD (European Film Agency Directors) and coordinated by Gianni Profita, the head of the film board. Also taking part are the directors of all European state film institutions, as well as numerous industry operators and experts. The main issue on the agenda is finding new strategies to increase and improve the distribution of European films within the Continent.
A number of co-productions contracts between Italy and, respectively, the United Kingdom, Spain and India will also be signed at this event. The host, Italy’s Minister for Culture, Giuliano Urbani, and the EU Commissioner for Cultural Affairs, Viviane Reding will present the results of this important meeting at a press conference scheduled for 31 August at 12.30.

(Translated from Italian)