Brussels, 28 Apr 2003

The European aerospace industry has agreed on a set of guidelines for customer-supplier relationships, one of which calls for the creation of a common research and development strategy.

The 'principles of conduct in the European aerospace supply chain' are centred on six principles: communication, research, costs, quality, commercial relationships, and improvement and best practice.

'The principles of conduct are an important element for the future competitiveness of our industry,' said President of the European association of aerospace industries, Bengt Halse. 'They represent best practice, and their application will benefit companies, both large and small.'

According to the guidelines, customers and suppliers should combine their areas of excellence in a reliable network encompassing industry, research institutes, universities and other entities to find the most effective solutions for future aerospace applications. Both parties are also expected to reflect reliable supply chain structures in such research networks.

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Customers and suppliers have also pledged to use the results of development activities effectively while respecting and protecting the know-how and intellectual property rights of all parties involved.

Behind all the areas in the document is the underlying commitment to work together to improve products and to utilise and share best practice.

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To see the principles of conduct, please consult the following web address: