In this context, a modernised Community framework for State aid for research and innovation[6] and guidance for a more effective use of tax incentives for RD[7] were adopted in November 2006, a European patent strategy is being proposed to overcome the deadlock on the Community patent[8], and initiatives are being prepared to support the emergence of European 'lead markets' in promising technology-intensive sectors.

[14] Moreover, pilot projects on machine translations of patent claims such as the ones currently applied at the EPO and the French Institut National de la Propriété Industrielle (INPI) which may reduce upstream costs and merit further consideration.

63. Notes that large differences still exist between the States of the US as regards the horizontal recognition of diplomas and professional qualifications, which discourages further development in the transatlantic market, particularly in the services sector; urges the Commission to initiate negotiations in specific sectors, such as pilot licences, with a view to the conclusion of agreements; and urges the US to develop a system based on the European model whereby nearly all diplomas and professional qualifications are mutually recognised among States as it is the case within the EU's internal market;

63. Notes that large differences still exist between the States of the US as regards the horizontal recognition of diplomas and professional qualifications, which discourages further development in the transatlantic market, particularly in the services sector; urges the Commission to initiate negotiations in specific sectors, such as pilot licences, with a view to the conclusion of agreements; and urges the US to develop a system based on the European model whereby nearly all diplomas and professional qualifications are mutually recognised among States as it is the case within the EU's internal market;

60. Notes that large differences still exist between the states of the US as regards the horizontal recognition of diplomas and professional qualifications, which discourages further development in the transatlantic market, particularly in the services sector; urges the Commission to initiate negotiations in specific sectors, such as pilot licenses, with a view to the conclusion of agreements; and urges the US to develop a system based on the European model whereby nearly all diplomas and professional qualifications are mutually recognised among states as it is the case within the EU's internal market;

Insurance and welfare institutions (Versicherungs- und Versorgungswerke) for doctors, dentists, veterinary surgeons, dispensing chemists, barristers and counsel, patent agents (Patentanwälte), notaries public, auditors (Wirtschaftprüfer), tax consultants and advisers (Steuerbevollmächtigte), sea pilots (Seelotsen) and architects, set up pursuant to legislation of the Länder, and other insurance and welfare institutions, in particular welfare funds (Fürsorgeeinrichtungen) and the system for extended fee-sharing (erweiterte Honorarverteilung).