EU leaders set for reform summit

By William Horsley
BBC European affairs correspondent

European Commission chief Barroso is not happy about protectionism

European Union leaders are meeting in Brussels to begin their annual summit focussing on economic reforms.

Some new agreements to boost economic growth and jobs are being proposed.

But the run-up to the talks has been marked by recriminations, claims of protectionism and criticism that the EU reform programme is failing.

The programme - which once aimed to make the European Union the world's most competitive economy - has been much weakened.

Strong words

European leaders are meeting with their quarrels over economic matters well aired - over trade protectionism, the blocking of foreign takeovers, and plans to extend the free market in services.

The past few days have seen big protests against economic change in France and Germany.

They have been also marked by accusations - by business leaders and economists - that the politicians are running away from controversial reforms, like easier hiring and firing of employees, and lower taxes and other costs.

The broad aim of the reform programme now is to boost jobs and growth.

All will probably sign up to the modest plans on the table - like supporting small businesses, more spending on research and starting work on a clearer European energy policy.

Strong words may be exchanged for and against more radical reform plans.

But it is unclear if they will be made public, when outside critics are watching the leaders closely for signs of anything that will clearly change the lives of people across Europe.