The Informal Economic and Financial Affairs Council (ECOFIN) took place in Helsinki on 8 and 9 September 2006.

The Informal Council discussed global competition, innovation and productivity, including the role financial markets can play in promoting innovation, productivity and research and development.

Ministers discussed the economic and financial aspects of energy, including both external energy policy and the development of a single market for energy in Europe.

The Informal Council also discussed the working methods of ECOFIN; financial market and stability issues; the present economic situation and prospects for the global economy; and the preparation of the annual meetings of the Bretton Woods Institutions.

The UK was represented by the Economic Secretary to the Treasury.