Schröder Calls for New Culture of Innovation

Chancellor Gerhard Schröder has called for a new culture of innovation in Germany. "Even starting in pre-school and in school, the curiosity and creativity of our children should be encouraged," he wrote in an article to be published in the Handelsblatt newspaper. "Once again, our children must want to become researchers and inventors." Schröder said he plans to make education and research political priorities in 2004. Furthermore, the label "Made in Germany" has to become a stronger sign for the technological capabilities of the country. To back that up, he called for stronger ties between science and business.