PRAGUE, Czech Republic (AP) -- Trade unions are calling for a European economic stimulus plan similar to that being proposed in the United States.
John Monks, the general secretary of the European Trade Union Confederation, says the crisis needs a concerted response equivalent to that being proposed by President Barack Obama.
Obama's expansive plan to jump-start the economy combines tax cuts and spending in hopes of spurring the U.S. economy. Much of the spending would be for items such as health care, jobless benefits and food stamps.
Monks made his remarks after a Wednesday meeting with Czech Prime Minister Mirek Topolanek, whose country holds the rotating EU presidency.
The 27-member bloc says 3.5 million jobs will disappear this year.