This Directorate-General is responsible for the development and implementation of EU research and innovation policies. It manages the European Framework Programmes that support research and innovation.

The main tasks are:

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  to develop European Union policy in the field of research and technological innovation, with special emphasis on the improving the competitiveness of European businesses
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  to coordinate the European research activities in the member states
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  managing the EU's research programmes
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  to promote a better understanding of the role of science in modern society and to stimulate public debate on a European level about matters related to research