28. Advises the Summit to ensure that the strengthening of relations between the two regions in the transnational business sphere takes into account the sensitivities which certain practices may awaken in given areas and sectors, and to favour ethically-based investment;

The merit based criteria, which are set forth in the formula for the application form for candidates, include general proficiency in the law, intellectual ability, analytical skills, ability to listen, ability to maintain an open mind, ability to make decisions, capacity to exercise sound judgment, reputation among professional peers and the general community, capacity to handle heavy workloads, capacity to handle stress and pressures of the isolation of the judicial role, awareness of racial and gender issues, bilingual ability and such personal characteristics as sense of ethics, patience, courtesy, honesty, common sense, tact, integrity, humility, fairness, reliability, tolerance, sense of responsibility ...[+++] and consideration for others.

Moreover, the Commission systematically submits all research proposals touching on whatever kind of ethical question to an ethical evaluation.

Even though it might not have been the desired result, a type of ‘European ethics’ already exists ‘in embryo’, having sprung from the ‘common sentiment’ deriving from the international and European legal sources.

However, Community action on biotechnological research is based increasingly on the most rigorous, fundamental ethical principles, and heeds national sensitivities.

"We have found the right balance between economic requirements and sensitivity to ethical issues" commented Commissioner Monti".