"The Framework Programme is the European Commission instrument put into place to finance research in Europe. As part of the Community Research and Technological Development Policy, it is expected that participation in the Seventh Framework Programme will increase and the quality of submitted proposals must rise. The objective of this project is to reinforce the network of National Contact Points (NCPs) for the health related research areas and the Health theme under the Seventh Framework Programme by promoting trans-national cooperation. This trans-national cooperation is extended to officially appointed Contact Points in International Cooperation Partner Countries, and other third countries Contact Points are not excluded. The basis for improving the NCP services in the area of health across Europe will be to identify the weaknesses of the network. The action will focus on identifying and sharing good practices. The mechanisms put in place will be benchmarking, training programme and networking and brokerage events. A set of execution, result and impact indicators will measure progress and efficacy of these mechanisms. (And corrective action will be taken if needed). The network will assist NCP and potential applicants to adapt to the new health issues in the Seventh Framework Programme. Special attention will be given to helping less experienced NCPs rapidly acquire the knowledge accumulated in other countries."