The Irish and British governments have welcomed the EU Portugese Presidency proposals for a 10-year reform strategy to make the EU the world's most dynamic and competitive area based on innovation and knowledge, with more and better jobs and greater social cohesion.
In a joint paper, the Taoiseach, Mr Ahern, and British Prime Minister, Mr Blair, identified areas of common interest which they wish to see progressed during the Special European Council in Lisbon next week.
They highlight three broad areas: education and lifelong learning; innovation and enterprise; and social exclusion.
Mr Ahern said that these reflected the key themes of the Programme for Prosperity and Fairness.
He also welcomed the news that Ireland was now the world's number one exporter of software products, according to a new report by the OECD.