2003Rd Council Meeting

7738/97 (Presse 129)

2003rd Council meeting

- GENERAL AFFAIRS -

Luxembourg, 29/30 April 1997

President: Mr Hans VAN MIERLO Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of The Netherlands S U M M A R Y

PARTICIPANTS ...... 2

ITEMS DISCUSSED

TRADE AGREEMENTS - Preferential agreements of the Community ...... 4 - Common rules for imports of certain textile products from third countries ...... 4

TRANSATLANTIC RELATIONS ...... 4

MEDITERRANEAN POLICY...... 5

EU-TURKEY ASSOCIATION COUNCIL ...... 5

RELATIONS WITH ALBANIA...... 6

GREAT LAKES REGION - CONCLUSIONS ...... 7

RELATIONS WITH IRAN - EU DECLARATION...... 8

RELATIONS WITH BELARUS - EU DECLARATION ...... 9

MONITORING CENTRE FOR RACISM AND XENOPHOBIA ...... 11

RELATIONS WITH HONG KONG ...... 12

CHEMICAL WEAPONS CONVENTION - EU DECLARATION ...... 12

FORMER YUGOSLAVIA...... 14

INTERGOVERNMENTAL CONFERENCE...... 23

ITEMS ADOPTED WITHOUT DISCUSSION

FYROM - Accord de coopération, protocole financier, accord transport ...... I Arménie - conclusion de l'Accord intérimaire ...... I Géorgie - conclusion de l'Accord intérimaire ...... I Estonie - droits de douane sur les produits agricoles ...... I Conseil d'Association avec la Hongrie ...... II Conseil d'Association avec la Pologne ...... II Birmanie/Myanmar ...... II Palestine - assistance de l'UE à la lutte contre le terrorisme ...... II Accord Multilatéral sur l'Investissement - Conclusions ...... III Antidumping - roulements à billes originaires du Japon ...... III Contrôle des exportations liées au domaine nucléaire ...... IV

Marché Intérieur - Services postaux ...... IV

Nominations...... V The Governments of the Member States and the European Commission were represented as follows:

Belgium Mr Erik DERYCKE Minister for Foreign Affairs

Denmark Mr Niels Helveg PETERSEN Minister for Foreign Affairs Mr Jørgen ØRSTRØM-MØLLER State Secretary for Foreign Affairs

Germany Mr Klaus KINKEL Minister for Foreign Affairs Mr Werner HOYER Minister of State, Foreign Affairs

Greece Mr Theodoros PANGALOS Minsiter for Foreign Affairs Mr Georgios PAPANDREOU Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs

Spain Mr Ramón de MIGUEL State Secretary for European Affairs

France Mr Hervé de CHARETTE Minister for Foreign Affairs Mr Michel BARNIER Minister with special responsibility for European Affairs

Ireland Mr Dick SPRING Minister for Foreign Affairs

Italy Mr Lamberto DINI Minister for Foreign Affairs Mr Piero Franco FASSINO State Secretary for Foreign Affairs

Luxembourg Mr Jacques POOS Minister for Foreign Affairs

Netherlands Mr Hans VAN MIERLO Minister for Foreign Affairs Mr Michiel PATIJN State Secretary for Foreign Affairs

Austria Mr Wolfgang SCHUSSEL Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs

Portugal Mr Jaime GAMA Minister for Foreign Affairs Mr Francisco SEIXAS da COSTA State Secretary for European Affairs

Finland Ms Tarja HALONEN Minister for Foreign Affairs Mr Ole NORRBACK Minister for European Affairs

Sweden Ms Lena HJELM-WALLÉN Minister for Foreign Affairs Mr Gunnar LUND State Secretary for Foreign Affairs

United Kingdom Mr David DAVIS Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office

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Commission Mr Jacques SANTER President Sir Leon BRITTAN Vice-President Mr Manuel MARIN Vice-President Ms Emma BONINO Member Mr Marcelino OREJA Member Mr Hans VAN DEN BROEK Member TRADE QUESTIONS

- Preferential agreements of the Community

Following the invitation by the Florence European Council (21/22 June 1996), the Council approved the text of a Report on the development of the trade policy and the preferential agreements of the Community, which will be submitted to the European Council in Amsterdam (16/17 June 1997).

- Common rules for imports of certain textile products from third countries

The Council adopted by qualified majority - the Portuguese and Spanish delegations voting against - a Regulation amending Council Regulation (EEC) no 3030/93 of 12 October 1993, with a view to simplifying and rendering more flexible the administration by the Commission of the import regime concerning textile products from third countries which are subject to quantitative restrictions.

TRANSATLANTIC RELATIONS - CONCLUSIONS

The Council took note, on the basis of reports from the Presidency and the Commission, of the state of preparations for the EU/US Summit in The Hague on 28 May.

It looked forward to a significant record of achievements during the Netherlands Presidency as regards the implementation of the New Transatlantic Agenda. It stressed the importance of achieving a balanced and satisfactory outcome to the negotiations for a Mutual Recognition Agreement and of reaching promptly a Veterinary Equivalence Agreement. MEDITERRANEAN POLICY

The Council welcomed the outcome of the Second Euro-Mediterranean Ministerial Conference, held in Malta on 15-16 April, as a positive step in the development of the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership. It invited officials to work to finalize the conclusions of the Conference as soon as possible, and asked the Presidency to report to the Council on the result.

The Council noted that the Commission had initialled in Malta the Euro-Mediterranean Association Agreement with Jordan. It instructed the Permanent Representatives Committee to examine the problems concerning the results of these negotiations.

The Council also took note of recent positive developments in the negotiations on an Association Agreement with Lebanon and encouraged the Commission to bring these to an early conclusion.

EU-TURKEY ASSOCIATION COUNCIL

The Council adopted the common position of the Union in preparation for the 38th meeting of the EU-Turkey Association Council, which was held the same day. RELATIONS WITH ALBANIA - CONCLUSIONS

Following reports from the Danish Foreign Minister as Chairman-in-Office of the OSCE, the Italian Foreign Minister as lead nation in the Multinational Protection Force in Albania and the Commission, the Council held an in-depth exchange of views on the implementation of the international Advisory Mission within the coordinating framework of the OSCE, and the Multinational Protection Force in Albania.

The Council expressed its satisfaction that the situation in Albania seems to be becoming gradually more stable. It urged the political forces in Albania to respect and implement the agreement of 9 March in order to create favourable conditions, including appropriate legislation, for early free and fair parliamentary elections and a new constitution. It underlined the importance it attaches to the holding of the elections in June and the role of free Albanian media in the pre-election information effort.

The Council discussed assistance to the establishment of a viable police force in Albania. It expressed support for the efforts undertaken by the Western European Union and the Council of Europe to contribute to that objective. The Commission informed the Council of its intention to identify ways of contributing financially to that initiative. The Council welcomed the increased monitoring presence of the ECMM (European Community Monitoring Mission) in Albania.

The Council asked the competent bodies to examine the possibility of adopting a Joint Action regarding the overall European Union effort in Albania.

The Council took note of the Italian proposal for an international conference on Albania. It invited the Commission and the appropriate Council instances to consider the proposal with a view to the convening of such a conference at an appropriate time.

GREAT LAKES REGION - CONCLUSIONS

The Council is increasingly alarmed at the situation in Zaire and urges all parties to avoid any further violence and bloodshed. An immediate cessation of hostilities and a peaceful and negotiated settlement, in conformity with the peace plan of the Special Representative of the UN and OAU, are of the utmost importance.

In this respect it is essential for the future stability of the country that the transition take place peacefully and that all parties work together with a view to the holding of elections within no more than twelve months. Only a democratic transition with an internationally supported and monitored electoral process can provide the basis for a lasting solution.

The Council took note of Mr Kabila's undertaking to allow UNHCR and other humanitarian agencies access to the refugees in the areas affected by the armed conflict, in particular south of Kisangani, and to allow their repatriation by the most appropriate means, by road, train and air. It expects that this undertaking will be implemented through concrete measures, in order that the UNHCR and other agencies will be allowed to complete their mission without delay, in accordance with their mandate and with international humanitarian law and without imposing on them any time constraints. It urged all parties to do their utmost to assist the humanitarian agencies in their task. The Council expressed deep concern at continuing reports of massive human rights violations in Eastern Zaire. It took note of Mr Kabila's agreement to an international commission of inquiry in this respect, and urged the UN to make the necessary arrangements as fast as possible.

Welcoming the results of the Arusha Summit of 16 April 1997, the Council reiterated its support for the efforts of the regional leaders. It condemned the continuing pattern of violence in Burundi and called for an immediate end to the attacks on the innocent civilian population and other violations of humanitarian law. It also condemned the current policy of regroupment of the Burundi authorities.

Recalling its support for the early holding of an international conference on the Great Lakes Region, under the auspices of the UN and the OAU, to address in a comprehensive way the problems of the region, the Council urged that the necessary preparations begin as soon as possible.

RELATIONS WITH IRAN - EU DECLARATION(1)

The Council had an extensive discussion on European Union relations with Iran, in the light of the Mykonos case. It reaffirmed the Presidency's declaration of 10 April 1997. It reiterated that the European Union has always wanted a constructive relationship with Iran, as expressed in the declaration of Edinburgh of 1992. However progress can only be made if the Iranian authorities respect the norms of international law and refrain from acts of terrorism, including against Iranian citizens living abroad and cooperate in preventing such acts.

It called on Iran to abide by its commitments under international agreements, including those concerning the non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, as well as those concerning human rights. It urged Iran to ratify the Chemical Weapons Convention.

The Council, determined to fight against terrorism in all its forms, regardless of its perpetrators or motives, agreed on the following:

- confirmation that under the present circumstances there is no basis for the continuation of the Critical Dialogue between the European Union and Iran; - the suspension of official bilateral Ministerial visits to or from Iran under the present circumstances;

(1) also issued separately as doc. 7569/97 Presse 125. - confirmation of the established policy of European Union Member States not to supply arms to Iran; - cooperation to ensure that visas are not granted to Iranians with intelligence and security functions; - concertation in excluding Iranian intelligence personnel from European Union Member States.

The Council decided to keep the relationship with Iran under close review and instructed the Political Committee accordingly. Member States will instruct their Ambassadors, after their return to Teheran, to contribute in a coordinated way to the continual appraisal by the Council of the relationship.

Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Poland, Romania, Slovakia and Slovenia align themselves with this declaration.

RELATIONS WITH BELARUS - EU DECLARATION (2)

The General Affairs Council of 29 April 1997 has taken note of the letters of President Lukashenko and Foreign Minister Antonovich of 10 April 1997, responding to the report of the EU Fact Finding Mission and the Council Conclusions of 24 February 1997.

The EU notes a clear discrepancy between the undertakings as expressed in the abovementioned letters and recent developments in Belarus. The EU expresses its deep concern at the wave of arbitrary arrests of demonstrators and members of the opposition in recent weeks. Furthermore, the EU rejects the various statements made by representatives of the Belarusian authorities since 10 April 1997 to the effect that the present political situation in Belarus should be accepted by the international community as a fait accompli.

(2) also issued separately as doc. 7744/97 Presse 135. The abovementioned events raise doubt on the declared willingness of the Belarusian Government to work constructively with the European Union and relevant international organizations towards establishing a political system which respects the internationally accepted norms for human rights and political freedoms.

Recalling its conclusions of 24 February 1997, the EU reiterates its position that cooperation between EU Member States and institutions and Belarus cannot proceed in the absence of convincing efforts to establish such a system.

The EU remains committed to a process whereby Belarus, in due course, can play a meaningful role on the European continent.

The European Union welcomes the formal undertaking by the Belarus authorities to initiate consultations with all the deputies of the elected 13th Supreme Soviet to establish a proper balance between the functions and duties of the members of the legislative, executive and judicial powers as well as devise mechanisms which would strengthen the respect for human rights and the position of the independent media.

The EU appeals to the Belarusian authorities to implement this commitment by the end of May 1997.

The EU in close cooperation with the OSCE and the Council of Europe is prepared to assist the Belarusian authorities in the process of democratization.

The EU supports the OSCE's efforts to establish independent mechanisms for monitoring the functioning of the existing legal framework for the protection of human rights and an independent role for the mass media and possible improvements to this legal framework.

The EU supports the establishment of a OSCE mission in Belarus which it believes could play a vital role in promoting democratic reforms and respect for human rights. The European Union has taken note of the appointment of Mr Kosto by the Presidency as its Special Representative to the Republic of Belarus and has noted that Mr Kosto has been tasked with:

- assisting both the Belarusian authorities and all the deputies of the elected 13th Supreme Soviet in setting up a formal consultation mechanism to discuss proposals for amending the 1994 Constitution with a view to establishing a proper balance in the system of the separation of powers;

- monitoring and facilitating the consultations in coordination with the OSCE and the Council of Europe;

- reporting to the GAC on the progress made in those consultations.

To these ends Mr Kosto will be assisted by a team of experts and will periodically visit Belarus. Mr Kosto's mandate will be reviewed as required by the political developments in Belarus and by the scope of future OSCE involvement.

Mr Kosto and the team of experts would expect to have unrestricted access to any person or organization in Belarus they may wish to see.

MONITORING CENTRE ON RACISM AND XENOPHOBIA

The Council took note of the state of preparation concerning the regulation aimed at establishing a European Monitoring Centre on Racism and Xenophobia.

The Presidency instructed the competent Council bodies to finalize work on the still outstanding points in order to allow the Council to take a decision on this matter without further discussion at its June session. RELATIONS WITH HONG KONG

The Council took note of a presentation made by Sir Leon Brittan of the Commission's communication on European Union-Hong Kong relations after 1997, and referred the matter to the competent Council bodies.

The Council decided to revert to this issue before the end of June 1997.

CHEMICAL WEAPONS CONVENTION - EU DECLARATION

The European Union welcomes the entry into force of the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) on 29 April 1997. The Chemical Weapons Convention is the first multilaterally negotiated disarmament instrument which bans an entire category of weapons of mass destruction in an effectively verifiable manner. Its entry into force is a landmark in the history of disarmament.

The European Union has on numerous occasions underlined the importance it attaches to early entry into force of this Convention. All Member States of the Union are original States Parties to the Convention and will attend the First Conference of States Parties to be opened in the Hague on 6 May 1997.

The European Union welcomes the approval of the Convention by the US Senate on 24 April. This will enable the United States of America to become an original State Party to the Convention and to participate in full in the First Conference of States Parties that will open in the Hague on 6 May 1997.

The European Union reiterates its appeal to all states that have not yet ratified to accede to the Convention without delay, in order to promote universal participation in the Convention. Recently, the EU approached all countries which have not yet signed and/or ratified the CWC, in order to promote universal adherence. It is of particular importance that all possessor states, as well as other states with significant chemical industries and states in areas of tension accede to the Convention. The European Union also welcomes the deposit of the Chinese instrument of ratification.

The European Union regrets that the Russian Federation was not able to ratify the Convention before 29 April and hopes it will do so at the earliest possible date.

The Union attaches great importance to this Convention being universal and implemented in an effective manner.

The European Union is convinced that the First Conference of States Parties will take the necessary steps to provide the institutional and organisational structures required for the effective implementation of all the tasks assigned by the treaty.

The Associated countries of Central and Eastern Europe, the Associated country Cyprus, and Iceland and Norway, EFTA countries members of the EEA, associate themselves with this declaration. FORMER YUGOSLAVIA

The Council adopted the Regulation extending the autonomous preferential measures - already granted to the other cooperating countries of Former Yugoslavia - to the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia for 1997 and on this occasion approved the Declaration hereafter in Annex I . These measures - largely similar to those accorded by the 1980 EEC- Yugoslavia cooperation agreement - consist essentially of duty-free access and the elimination of quantitative restrictions for the bulk of industrial products and specific measures for some agricultural products.

The Council also adopted - without discussion - conclusions on the application of conditionality with a view to developing a coherent EU strategy for its relations with the countries in the region (Annex II).

Furthermore, the Council welcomed the holding and the overall conduct of the elections which took place in Croatia on 13-14 April 1997 and adopted the Declaration in Annex III.

With regard to the next local elections in Bosnia-Herzegovina, the Council expressed its solidarity with the appeal launched by Ms. Susanna AGNELLI in her capacity of representative of the OSCE Chairman-in-Office for fund-raising for these elections. It expressed the hope that all partners will respond positively to Ms AGNELLI's appeal and make substantial contributions to the OSCE Voluntary Fund.

On the current situation in Bosnia-Herzegovina the Council heard a report by the High Representative, Mr Carl BILDT . It shared his views about the present challenges to the peace consolidation process and reiterated its full support for his continuing efforts. ANNEX I

EU Declaration on the occasion of the granting of autonomous trade preferences to the FRY (3)

The Council has decided to extend autonomous trade preferences to the FRY for the year 1997.

With this measure, the European Union is responding to developments in the FRY. Although no formal dialogue between government and opposition parties has yet started, representatives of both sides have participated in televised debates. The media scene is more diverse than before the November elections.

The Serbian Government has removed a number of the most unwelcome elements from the second draft of its media law and has undertaken to produce a new federal law relating to State television.

At the same time, the European Union has taken note of the difficulties encountered by the FRY economy. Continued economic decline in the FRY affects in particular the population and could therefore also undermine stability across the region.

The decision to extend autonomous trade preferences has been taken against the background of the need to promote economic revival and to reinforce a trend towards democratisation and has been supported by the "Zajedno" opposition. This is the only basis on which the FRY can hope to build internal stability and a productive relationship with the EU. It is clear that there is scope for improvement on both scores.

The EU, therefore, expects the full and speedy implementation of the Gonzalez report. This includes acceptance of the OSCE facilitation of dialogue between government and opposition and the start of a dialogue, a further improvement of the draft media law as well as reform of the electoral law and independent operation of the judicial system. In the absence of progress by the FRY towards meeting these criteria the decision on granting autonomous trade preferences will be reviewed.

In addition, the EU expects from Belgrade substantial progress on the issue of Kosovo, a continued positive attitude towards Eastern Slavonia and continued implementation of the General Framework Agreement for Peace. This includes the FRY relations with the Republika Srpska.

The Council adopted today conclusions on the application of conditionality for the relations with the countries of the region. Further development of relations with the FRY will be based on these conclusions.

(3) also issued separately as doc. 7803/97 Presse 139. ANNEX II

Elections in Croatia : EU Declaration (4)

The European Union has noted with satisfaction that local elections were held in Croatia on 13 April, and in particular that elections were held in Eastern Slavonia, Baranja and Western Sirmium on 13 and 14 April 1997, under the auspices of the United Nations Transitional Administration for Eastern Slavonia (UNTAES). It wishes to congratulate the Croatian authorities in this regard, as well as the Transitional Administrator, Mr Klein, and the staff of UNTAES on having overcome organizational problems to see the elections through to a successful conclusion.

The high turnout at the polls shows that the local population in Eastern Slavonia has seized this chance of harmonious and mutually beneficial co-existence within Croatia. These local elections certainly form a firm basis for the peaceful reintegration of the region into Croatia. However, the European Union would point out that strict respect for human rights and for the rights of minorities throughout the country remains an essential prerequisite for the ultimate success of the reintegration process. The European Union will remain vigilant in this regard, as will the international community as a whole.

The European Union now calls on the parties to press ahead with the process of reintegration in a spirit of dialogue, openness, good faith and mutual understanding, in which endeavour they will be supported and supervised by the international community.

(4) also issued separately as doc. 7746/97 Presse 137. ANNEX III

Council Conclusions on the Application of Conditionality with a view to developing a Coherent EU-Strategy for the Relations with the Countries in the Region

"Introduction

In an effort to consolidate peace and stability in the region and to contribute to its economic renewal, the EU intends to develop bilateral relations with the countries of the region within a framework which promotes democracy, the rule of law, higher standards of human and minority rights, transformation towards market economies and greater cooperation between those countries. In this context, particular importance is attached to the principles of conditionality which will govern the development of the Union's relations, in accordance with the conclusions of the General Affairs Council of October 1995, February and May 1996, the guiding principles of the Civilian Consolidation Plan agreed in Paris in November 1996 and the Conclusions of the London Peace Implementation Conference of December 1996. In this context the Commission presented a strategy paper entitled "The application of conditionality to the development of relations between the EU and the countries concerned by the regional approach", which was welcomed by the General Affairs Council on 24 February 1997.

EU-Strategy on Conditionality

On this basis, the EU has agreed to establish, in the framework of the regional approach, political and economic conditions as the basis for a coherent and transparent policy towards the development of bilateral relations in the field of trade, of financial assistance and economic cooperation as well as of contractual relations, allowing for the necessary degree of flexibility. The EU strategy should serve as an incentive, and not an obstacle, to the countries concerned to fulfil these conditions.

The concept of conditionality covers all countries in South Eastern Europe without Association Agreement (ie Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, FRY, FYROM and Albania).

While the exact level of relations with each of the countries varies, certain general conditions apply to all of them. In addition, specific conditions will apply to certain countries, e.g. those relating to obligations arising under the Peace Agreements. Graduated approach

To the extent possible, conditions are broken down into operational, verifiable elements (Annex). The Council will monitor and evaluate the progress made in meeting conditionality requirements, using all mechanisms at its disposal and taking into account reporting from international organisations/bodies in the region such as UN, OSCE and Office of High Representative (OHR). Progressive implementation of conditions will lead to progressive improvement of relations subject to a continuous and comprehensive political and economic assessment in which each country will be judged on its own merits.

In this context, trade preferences, the extension of financial assistance and economic cooperation as well as the establishment of contractual relations are subject to different degrees of conditionality. The assessment of these countries' compliance with the conditions of the regional approach, i.e. the readiness of the beneficiary country to engage in cross-border cooperation and to extend where appropriate similar advantages to other countries of the region, will take place at all stages of the development of relations. None of the countries will be held responsible for a lack of reciprocal readiness of its potential regional partners.

Schedule for the application of conditions to different levels of relations and cooperation

- Autonomous trade preferences

The renewal of autonomous trade preferences will be linked to the respect for fundamental principles of democracy and human rights and to the readiness of the countries concerned to allow the development of economic relations between themselves.

- PHARE : Implementation of the programme

The Council may define the scope of implementation of the programme.

Assistance in support of democracy through PHARE could be considered subject to evidence of a country's credible commitment to democratic reforms and progress in compliance with the generally recognised standards of human and minority rights.

General assistance through this programme would require, as appropriate, compliance with obligations under the peace agreements, including those relating to cooperation with the International Tribunal in bringing war criminals to justice. Compliance includes an undertaking to make the Federation/Croatia as well as the RS/FRY agreements compatible with the General Framework Agreement for Peace (GFAP), under the guidance of OHR. It would also require respect for human and minority rights and the offer of real opportunities to displaced persons (including so called "internal migrants") and refugees to return to their place of origin. Moreover, the country concerned should have undertaken a credible commitment to engage in economic reforms, significant steps towards cooperation with its neighbours and the establishment of open relations, including the free movement of people and goods.

In the case of FRY, general assistance through this programme also requires a credible offer of a real dialogue on the status of Kosovo.

In the case of Bosnia, in the absence of compliance with the above conditions, PHARE assistance will be limited to projects in direct support of the peace agreements, in particular the building of cross-entity links and refugee return.

- Contractual relations

The application of conditionality to contractual relations must be seen as an evolutionary process, the start of the negotiations requiring a lower level of compliance than the conclusion of the agreements. At each stage, including after the conclusion of agreements, the situation should be monitored and, in accordance with the relevant articles of the agreement, its application could be suspended in case of serious non-compliance.

To permit the beginning of negotiations, the following general conditions shall apply to all countries concerned:

1. Credible offer to and a visible implementation of real opportunities for displaced persons (including so called "internal migrants") and refugees to return to their places of origin, and absence of harassment initiated or tolerated by public authorities;

2. Readmission of nationals of the States concerned who are present illegally in the territory of a Member State of the EU ;

3. Compliance of the countries which are signatories of GFAP with the obligations under the peace agreements, including those related to cooperation with the International Tribunal in bringing war criminals to justice ;

4. A credible commitment to engage in democratic reforms and to comply with the generally recognised standards of human and minority rights; 5. Holding of free and fair elections at reasonable intervals on the basis of universal and equal suffrage of adult citizens by secret ballot, and full and proper implementation of the results of these elections;

6. Absence of generally discriminatory treatment and harassment of minorities by public authorities;

7. Absence of discriminatory treatment and harassment of independent media;

8. Implementation of first steps of economic reform (privatisation programme, abolition of certain price controls);

9. Proven readiness to enter into good neighbourly and cooperative relations with its neighbours.

10. Compatibility of RS/FRY as well as the Federation/Croatia agreements with the Dayton Peace Agreements.

In addition to the foregoing general conditions, the following specific conditions shall apply:

Croatia

1. Compliance with the obligations under the Basic Agreement on Eastern Slavonia and cooperation with UNTAES and OSCE ;

2. Opening of the customs border between Croatia and Republika Srpska;

3. Evidence of credible pressure on the Bosnian Croats to dissolve Herceg-Bosna structures and to cooperate in the establishment and functioning of the Federation, as well as evidence of the implementation of a truly unified City Council in Mostar and of effective functioning of the United Police Force of Mostar (UPFM). Evidence that the government of Croatia is using its influence in bringing Bosnian Croat war criminals to justice before the International Tribunal.

Bosnia and Herzegovina

1. Establishment of functioning institutions as provided for in the constitution, and formulation of a foreign trade and customs policy for Bosnia and Herzegovina; 2. Beginning of a credible process towards free movement of persons, goods and capital within Bosnia and Herzegovina;

3. Cooperation with the High Representative including on Brcko;

4. Evidence of the implementation of a truly unified City Council in Mostar and of effective functioning of the UPFM, and cooperation in the establishment and functioning of the Federation. Dismantling of all structures which the OHR judges contrary to the spirit and letter of the GFAP. Evidence of cooperation with the International Tribunal, notably in bringing Bosnian war criminals to justice before the Tribunal.

FRY

1. Credible pressure on the Bosnian Serbs to cooperate in the institution building and the implementation of the provisions of the constitution. Evidence that the government of FRY is using its influence in bringing Bosnian Serb war criminals to justice before the International Tribunal;

2. Existence of a real dialogue with the Kosovo Albanians on the status of the Kosovo within the borders of the FRY.

During the negotiations, compliance will be monitored continuously and progress on certain aspects will depend on declared readiness to corresponding regional cooperation.

In addition to the compliance with the above mentioned conditions, the conclusion of cooperation agreements requires, where applicable, substantial progress in the achievement of the objectives of these conditions as well as substantial results in the field of political and economic reforms and a credible commitment of the government concerned to continue on this path. Proven readiness to cooperate and entertain open, good neighbourly relations with the countries in the region will be required.

The following specific condition will apply to the FRY:

Effective granting of a large degree of autonomy to the Kosovo. (5)

(5) The definition of what comprises "a large degree of autonomy for the Kosovo within the borders of the FRY" should be decided by mutual agreement between the Government and political forces in Kosovo. The Parties should aim for a fair legal framework going beyond the respect of minority rights. Annex to ANNEX III

Elements for the examination of compliance with :

* Democratic principles

- Representative government, accountable executive ; - Government and public authorities to act in a manner consistent with the constitution and the law ; - Separation of powers (government, administration, judiciary) ; - Free and fair elections at reasonable intervals by secret ballot.

*Human rights, rule of law

- Freedom of expression, including independent media ; - Right of assembly and demonstration ; - Right of association ; - Right to privacy, family, home and correspondence - Right to property ; - Effective means of redress against administrative decisions ; - Access to courts and right to fair trial ; - Equality before the law and equal protection by the law ; - Freedom from inhuman or degrading treatment and arbitrary arrest.

* Respect for and protection of minorities

- Right to establish and maintain their own educational, cultural and religious institutions, organisations or associations ; - Adequate opportunities for these minorities to use their own language before courts and public authorities ; - Adequate protection of refugees and displaced persons returning to areas where they represent an ethnic minority.

*Market economy reform

- Macroeconomic institutions and policies necessary to ensure a stable economic environment ; - Comprehensive liberalisation of prices, trade and current payments ; - Setting up of a transparent and stable legal and regulatory framework ; - Demonopolisation and privatisation of state owned or socially owned enterprises ; - Establishment of a competitive and prudently managed banking sector." INTERGOVERNMENTAL CONFERENCE

A further ministerial meeting of the IGC was held on the occasion of the General Affairs Council of 29/30 April in Luxembourg.

This meeting was devoted to the common foreign and security policy and institutional questions.

On CFSP, the work of the Conference focused on the place of qualified majority voting in the decision-making process; the future relationship between the WEU and the EU; the need for an enabling clause for flexibility in CFSP; budgetary qualification of CFSP expenditure - compulsory or not.

In the institutional field, two specific items were discussed on the basis of Presidency texts : the Commission - need to strengthen the hand of the President of the Commission and for restructuring within the Commission to enhance its effectiveness and efficiency - and the weighting of votes in the Council - dual majority in terms of votes and population or adjusting the actual weighting of Member States' votes.

The meeting was preceded by the customary exchange of views with the President of the European Parliament dedicated mainly to the abovementioned subjects. AUTRES DECISIONS (Adoptées sans débat. Lorsqu'il s'agit d'actes à caractère législatif, les votes contraires ou abstentions sont indiqués.)

FYROM - Accord de Coopération, Protocole financier, Accord Transport

Le Conseil a décidé de procéder à la signature d'un échange de lettres concernant l'Accord de Coopération entre la Communauté européenne et l'Ancienne République Yougoslave de Macédoine, accompagné d'un Protocole financier et d'un Accord dans le domaine des transports (cf. communiqué de presse doc. 7742/97 PRESSE 133).

Arménie - conclusion de l'Accord intérimaire

Le Conseil a décidé de procéder à la conclusion de l'Accord intérimaire sur le commerce et les mesures d'accompagnement avec l'Arménie.

Cet Accord permet de mettre en oeuvre les dispositions commerciales - de compétence communautaire - de l'Accord de partenariat et de coopération signé le 22 avril 1996, sans attendre l'aboutissement des procédures de ratification par les parlements des Etats Membres et de l'Arménie.

L'Accord prévoit également que la commission mixte, mise en place par l'accord de commerce et de coopération de 1989, puisse exercer les pouvoirs exercés par l'accord de partenariat et de coopération au conseil de coopération nécessaires à l'application de l'accord intérimaire.

Géorgie - conclusion de l'Accord intérimaire

Le Conseil a décidé de procéder à la conclusion de l'Accord intérimaire sur le commerce et les mesures d'accompagnement avec la Géorgie.

Estonie - droits de douane sur les produits agricoles

Le Conseil a marqué son accord pour la prolongation jusqu'au 31 décembre 1997 de la période de dérogation à la clause de "statu quo" pour les droits de douane sur les produits agricoles (art. 18 de l'Accord de libre-échange). En vertu de l'Accord de libre-échange (qui reste d'application dans l'attente de l'accomplissement des procédures de ratification de l'Accord européen), l'Estonie a la possibilité de déroger au "statu quo" en introduisant, pendant les deux premières années, des droits de douane sur un nombre limité de produits agricoles communautaires, au cas où sa politique agricole l'exigerait. Cette période peut être prolongée d'une année supplémentaire, par décision de la Commission mixte. La période en question se terminant fin 1996, l'Estonie a demandé une prolongation pour 1997.

Conseil d'association avec la Hongrie

Le Conseil a défini la position de l'Union européenne en vue de la quatrième sesssion du Conseil d'association avec la Hongrie, prévue le 30 avril 1997 (voir communication à la presse, doc. UE-H 1506/97 Presse 150).

Conseil d'association avec la Pologne

Le Conseil a défini la position de l'Union européenne en vue de la quatrième sesssion du Conseil d'association avec la Pologne, prévue le 30 avril 1997 (voir communication à la presse, doc. UE-PL 1406/97 Presse 151).

Birmanie/Myanmar - reconduction des mesures adoptées le 28 octobre 1996

Le Conseil a reconduit pour six mois la position commune adoptée le 28 octobre 1996 sur la Birmanie/Myanmar, la situation sur place n'ayant montré aucun signe d'amélioration.

La position commune du 28 octobre 1996, qui vient à expiration le 29 avril 1997, avait déjà confirmé les mesures adoptées auparavant telles que l'expulsion du personnel militaire attaché aux représentations diplomatiques de la Birmanie dans les Etats membres, l'embargo sur les armes et la suspension de l'aide non humanitaire, et en avait établi de nouvelles telles que l'interdiction de délivrer des visas aux membres dirigeants du SLORC ou aux hauts gradés de l'armée, et la suspension des visites gouvernmenetales de haut niveau.

Palestine - assistance de l'UE à la lutte contre le terrorisme

Le Conseil a adopté l'action commune relative à la mise en place d'un programme d'assistance destiné à soutenir l'Autorité palestinienne dans ses efforts pour lutter contre les actions terroristes trouvant leur origine dans les territoires sous son contrôle.

L'objectif du programme de l'UE est de renforcer la capacité de l'Autorité palestinienne à lutter contre le terrorisme et à contribuer au processus de paix et de faire en sorte que les services de sécurité et de police concernés soient pleinement conscients, lorsqu'ils agissent dans les territoires qui sont sous le contrôle de l'Autorité palestinienne, des principes des droits de l'homme. Le programme couvre des éléments tels que la formation aux méthodes de surveillance, de recherche et d'interrogation, l'instauration d'un bureau d'enquête doté de moyens de police scientifique, la formation du personnel de gestion des forces de sécurité et de police, aide à la direction des différents services en vue d'une administration efficace.

Un conseiller de l'Union européenne sera désigné pour superviser la mise en oeuvre de ce programme.

Le programme est instauré pour une durée de trois ans, mais sera suspendu si l'Autorité palestinienne ne coopère pas pleinement à la mise en oeuvre du programme, ne prend pas les mesures appropriées pour assurer le respect des droits de l'homme lors de la mise en oeuvre du programme, ou ne permet pas à l'UE d'exercer la surveillance et l'évaluation du programme.

Un montant total de 3,6 MECU est destiné à ce programme.

Accord Multilatéral sur l'Investissement - Conclusions

"Le Conseil et les représentants des Etats membres réunis au sein du Conseil :

1. rappellent les conclusions du Conseil du 24 mars 1997 ;

2. se félicitent des progrès satisfaisants qui ont été réalisés dans le cadre des négociations relatives à l'accord multilatéral sur l'investissement (AMI) ;

3. prennent acte de la nécessité de disposer de davantage de temps pour résoudre les questions en suspens ;

4. expriment la volonté ferme de la Communauté et de ses Etats membres de poursuivre leur participation active aux négociations dans des efforts conjoints avec les autres membres de l'OCDE ;

5. appellent la prochaine réunion ministérielle de l'OCDE à fixer des dates ambitieuses pour la conclusion des négociations et la signature de l'accord multilatéral sur l'investissement."

Antidumping - roulements à billes originaires du Japon

Le Conseil a adopté le règlement clôturant la procédure antidumping relative aux importations de roulements à billes dont le plus grand diamètre excède 30 mm, originaires du Japon, et abrogeant les mesures antidumping institutées en ce qui concerne ces importation (Règlement (CE) no 2849/92). Contrôle des exportations liées au domaine nucléaire

Le Conseil a adopté une action commune relative à la contribution de l'Union européenne à la promotion de la transparence dans les contrôles des exportations liées au domaine nucléaire.

L'action commune a pour objectif de contribuer au renforcement du système international de non-prolifération nucléaire, notamment en soutenant l'action du Groupe des fournisseurs nucléaires (NSG) visant à renfocer la transparence dans les contrôles des exportations liées au domaine nucléaire. En particulier, il est prévu que l'UE contribue activement au Groupe "Transparence" du NSG, et verse une contribution de 75.000 ECU au financement du premier séminaire du NSG sur les contrôles des exportations.

MARCHE INTERIEUR

Services postaux

A la suite de l'accord politique intervenu lors de sa session spéciale du 18 décembre 1996, le Conseil a formellement adopté, à la majorité qualifiée, les délégations finlandaise, néerlandaise et suédoise votant contre, sa position commune relative à la directive concernant des règles communes pour le développement du marché intérieur des services postaux de la Communauté et l'amélioration de la qualité du service.

Cette position commune sera transmise au Parlement européen qui procédéra à une seconde lecture, dans le cadre de la procédure de co-décision.

La proposition constitue la première étape d'une politique visant à l'achèvement du marché intérieur et au développement des services postaux communautaires. A ce titre, la proposition vise à introduire des dispositions harmonisées concernant le service universel et les services postaux susceptibles d'être réservés aux prestataires du service universel ainsi que l'amélioration de la qualité de service, la promotion de la normalisation et certaines questions connxes.

Un résumé exhaustif de la position commune a été publié dans la communication à la presse n° 12874/96 - Presse 387 du 18 décembre 1996. NOMINATIONS

- Comité des Régions

Le Conseil a adopté les décisions portant nomination au Comité des Régions de

- M. Horst MEHRLÄNDER, membre, en remplacement de M. Dieter SPÖRI, - M. Frieder BIRZELE, membre suppléant, en remplacement de M. Alfred GEISEL - M. Peter STRAUB, membre suppléant, en remplacement de M. Fritz HOPMEIER

pour la durée du mandat de ceux-ci restant à courir, soit jusqu'au 25 janvier 1998.

- Comité économique et social

Le Conseil a adopté la décision portant nomination d'un membre du Comité économique et social, M. Harald GLATZ, en remplacement de M. Harald ETTL, pour la durée du mandat de celui-ci restant à courir, soit jusqu'au 20 septembre 1998.