AGENDA/06/38
Brussels, Friday 10 November
Top News from the European Commission 13 November – 10 December
Background notes from the Spokesperson’s service for journalists The European Commission reserves the right to make changes
Until Friday 17 November: The Commission at the 12th Conference of Parties to the UN Climate Change Convention in Nairobi
The news: Next round of UN negotiations on combating climate change held in Nairobi. Environment Commissioner Dimas will participate in high-level segment of the conference from 15 to 17 November. Among the key issues will be continued discussion of a global regime to tackle climate change after 2012; technology transfer to developing countries; and a package of measures to address Africa's priorities. These include help with, and funding for, adapting to climate change and attracting more emission-reduction projects to African countries.
The event: The EU Presidency and Commission will hold daily press conferences throughout the conference which take place in Nairobi, Kenya Ebs coverage
The sources: IP/06/684; IP/06/1509 European Commission websites: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/climat/home_en.htm http://ec.europa.eu/environment/climat/pdf/cc_factsheet_aug2005.pdf Infoclip Video Stockshots
The contacts: Barbara Helfferich +32 2 298 2010; Lone Mikkelsen +32 2 296 0567
Editor Alain Bloëdt +32 2 295 56 04 SPP Coordination & Planning Unit
Monday 13 to Friday 17 November: Launch of the “European Development Days”
The news: The "European Development Days" have been launched to enable the European Union to respond to two major concerns: to inform Europeans citizens and raise awareness of the challenges of development; to make European aid more effective in line with the new European consensus on development, which emphasises the EU’s common values, principles and commitment to eradicating poverty. The main message of the “general public” component will be “Africa on the move”. Several events are scheduled: the Youth Prize award ceremony, an exhibition of African strip cartoon, an exhibition of African artists, a mini gala of African films, the Millennium campaign "No excuse 2015 - Voices against poverty" and a fashion show to promote African fashion design. A forum of development specialists will discuss the direct links between development and good governance. Various round tables will be held, attended by the Nobel peace prize- winner Desmond Tutu, the President of the World Bank Paul Wolfowitz, the Belgian Prime Minister Guy Verhofstadt, Commissioner Louis Michel and numerous African heads of state, to discuss the common interest of Africans and Europeans in doing business with each other on the grounds of the common future they share.
The event: Opening session on 13 November and closing session on 17 November in Heysel , Brussels, will be attended by Development Commissioner Louis Michel, 15 African Heads of State and of Government, President of the World Bank, Paul Wolfowitz as well as many Directors of United Nations Agencies. Round tables with the participation of various European Development Ministers, Directors of United Nations Agencies as well as representatives of the World Bank, the ILO, major NGOs and members of the political and civil African society. Available on EbS VIP Corner with Louis Michel and President of the World Bank, P.Wolfowitz, at the Berlaymont on Wednesday 15 November at 09h30. Available on EbS Press conference by Louis Michel and Desmond Tutu at the Heysel, in Brussels, on 17 November at 14h00. A special shuttle for the press will depart from Schuman at 13h00. Available on EbS Other press points to be held at the Heysel and will be announced in due time (please refer to http://www.eudevdays.eu/ ).
The sources: IP/06/1137 SPEECH/06/511 European Commission websites: http://ec.europa.eu/comm/development/body/development_policy_statement/docs/edp_su mmary_en.pdf http://www.eudevdays.eu/ Infoclip Memoclip
The contacts: Amadeu Altafaj Tardio +32 2 295 2658; Marc Lognoul +32 2 295 6493
2
Monday 13 November: Award of the Development Youth Prize 2006 (with focus on Africa)
The news The first round of the Development Youth Prize (with a focus on Africa) has just been held. Commissioner Louis Michel will take part in the prize-giving ceremony, which will take place at the Berlaymont Piazza and pressroom on Monday, 13 November 2006. A total of 751 contributions were entered in the competition by schools from all the EU Member States. The national panel of judges from each of the 25 EU Member States selected a winner and a runner up, evaluating the entries on the basis of the three topics of the competition: education, health and the environment. In their entries participants described the difficulties of life in Africa caused by hunger, malnutrition, lack of schooling, floods and desertification. The winner, his or her teacher and the runner up of each Member State will be invited to Brussels to take part in the European Development Days. The winners and their teachers will also accompany Commissioner Louis Michel on one of his trips to Africa in spring 2007.
The event: “Youth and Development" prize-giving ceremony from 9.30 to 11.30. Presentation of the Development Youth Prize by Commissioner Louis Michel from 10.15 to 11.15 (Berlaymont pressroom). EbS coverage
The sources: http://www.dyp2006.org
The contacts: Amadeu Altafaj + 32 2 295 2658, Marc Lognoul + 32 2 295 6493
3
Tuesday 14 November: Strategic review on Better Regulation
The news: The Commission will adopt its Global Review on better regulation on 14 November. This will analyse the progress to date after two years work and set out the proposed next steps, including a number of new initiatives. The better regulation agenda is comprised of a number of different parts: Withdrawal of pending proposals, simplification of legislation, administrative costs, impact assessments and, codification. Better regulation is at the heart of the Barroso Commission’s agenda. It is also one of the main priorities of the German Presidency. The Commission will adopt a global communication together with two staff working documents on simplification and administrative costs. The Commission will also underline the importance of the role of the Member States, Council and European Parliament.
The event: Press conference with President Jose Manuel Barroso and Vice-President Günter Verheugen in Strasbourg at 16.00 tbc Video and photo coverage by EbS.(tbc)
The sources: European Commission website: http://ec.europa.eu/enterprise/regulation/better_regulation/index_en.htm
The contacts: Ton van Lierop +32 2 296 6565; Catherine Bunyan +32 2 299 6512
4
Tuesday, 14 November: Presentation of the Work Programme to the European Parliament
The news: Every year, the Commission’s Work Programme presents a great opportunity to look ahead and assess what still needs to done. The European Commission has issued its 2007 Work Programme which outlines the next steps to be taken in order to reach its 2007 goals. For the first time, the Commission identified a series of 21 strategic initiatives. These initiatives will focus on the four overall priorities for the Barroso Commission: prosperity, solidarity, security, and a stronger voice in the world, It also builds on the “Citizen’s Agenda: Delivering Results for Europe”, document adopted on 10 May 2006. The Commission also sets out a further series of priority actions to be adopted over the next 12 to 18 months. The President of the Commission will present this 2007’s Work Programme to the European Parliament.
The event: Presentation of the 2007 Work Programme to the European Parliament by President Barroso, in Strasbourg. Available on EbS
The sources: IP/06/1465 European Commission websites: http://ec.europa.eu/atwork/programmes/index_en.htm
The contacts: Johannes Laitenberger +32 2 296 5745, Pia Ahrenkilde-Hansen: +32 2 296 4284
5
Tuesday 14 to Wednesday 15 November: The Commission at the Euro- Mediterranean Ministerial Conference on "Strengthening the Role of Women in Society"
The news: The Euro-Mediterranean Partnership has been active in supporting Mediterranean women, especially regarding their access to economic life. But there is a consensus that more needs to be done and in a more coherent and systematic way. The First Ministerial Conference on “Strengthening the Role of Women in Society” that will be held in Istanbul, aims at engaging all partners in concrete steps to achieve gender equality, to prevent all forms of discrimination and to ensure equal rights for women in all fields in the EuroMediterranean region. The conference is a follow up of the preparatory event "Towards the Plan of Action on Strengthening the Role of Women in Society" that took place from 14 to 16 June 2006, in Rabat (Morocco). The Istanbul conference will provide the opportunity to approve ministerial conclusions that include a political declaration and a working plan on strengthening women’s role in the political, social, economic, educational and cultural spheres, and will guide the mobilisation of funds for gender equality from all Euromed partners . One of the common objectives of the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership is to enhance the participation of the civil society in the Barcelona Process. Representatives from the Euromed Non-governmental platform will participate as well in the conference
The event: 1st Euro-Mediterranean Ministerial Conference on "Strengthening the Role of Women in Society" will be held in the Marmara Hotel, in Istanbul (Turkey), in the presence of Commissioner Ferrero-Waldner.
The sources: European Commission website: http://ec.europa.eu/comm/external_relations/euromed/news_interviews.htm Memoclip
The contacts: Emma Udwin +32 2 295 95 77; Concha Fernández de la Puente: +32 2 295 29 77
6
Wednesday 15 to Friday 17 November: Conference, Best Practices in terms of Structural Funds, Graz (Austria)
The news: Regional Policy Commissioner Danuta Hübner is among the leaders and experts who are addressing the 4th Best Practices Conference to be held in Graz, Austria. The Conference is focusing particularly on the “Knowledge Society”, a theme initially highlighted at the Gothenburg Conference held in November 2005. The objective of the Conference is to seek best practice methods that have resulted in creating and implementing projects that trigger change, stimulate innovation and that pave the way to modern, future oriented regional development and innovation strategies. The Conference will concentrate on three themes: How to generate and develop projects that promote productive links between science, research and business; How to design and implement innovative financial instruments to support future oriented development; To learn from projects that change patterns in regional development, that trigger change and that pave the way for the future with a focus on the knowledge society.
The event: Conference and workshops hosted at the Graz Convention Centre (Austria) with the participation of Commissioner Danuta Hübner. EbS Coverage
The sources: European Commission website: http://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/index_en.htm Further information at: http://www.best-practice-graz.at/ Infoclip
The contacts: Ana-Paula Laissy +32 2 295 32 58; Constantina Avraam +32 2 295 9667
7
Thursday 16 November: Research- Awarding of the 5 Marie Curie Excellence Awards winners
The news: The Marie Curie Excellence Awards publicly recognise excellence achieved by researchers who have benefited from European support schemes. They are open to researchers from all fields of scientific and technological research who have received support from a European scheme of the training of researchers. The Marie Curie awards amounts € 50,000 for each awardee. This illustrates the value of European schemes in searching out researchers’ potential in Europe and promotes a positive image of science for other young people. The names of the five awardees for 2006 will announced and details provided of their career at the work for which the are receiving the award.
The event: Marie Curie Excellence Awards ceremony will be held at the Ecole Polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne.
The sources: European Commission website: http://ec.europa.eu/research/fp6/mariecurie-actions/indexhtm_en.html
The contacts: Antonia Mochan +32 2 296 9921; Marilyn Carruthers +32 2 299 9451 [email protected]
8
Friday 17 to Sunday 19 November: “Soul for Europe” Conference in Berlin
The news: The “Soul for Europe” initiative was launched in 2004 with the participation of the European Commission’s President, José Manuel Barroso. This project promotes the idea of "a Europe by and for Europeans” against the idea of a Europe just of institutions, administrations and regulations. To do this, it brings together members of civil society, scientists, scholars, representatives of culture, politics and business as well as decision-makers from all areas, in order to discuss the effective and sustainable use of Europe’s cultural resources to encourage European unification. The Conference will be structured in three different parts: The Concept and Its Implementation- Balance on the Initiative and talk on the Year of Intercultural Dialogue 2008; Dialogue Among EU Commissioners Commission; Open Europe- The Jewish-Islamic Dimension of Europe;
The event: Conference “A Soul for Europe” will be held in Berlin with the participation of the European Commission’s President José Manuel Barroso, as well as Commissioner Figel and others commissioners and Brazilian Culture Minister, Gilberto Gil.
The sources: http://www.bpb.de/themen/CSVKT2,0,0,A_Soul_for_Europe.html http://www.felix.meritis.nl/peoplenetwork/docs/ASFE%20information%202006.pdf
The contacts: Johannes Laitenberger +32 2 296 5745; Pia Ahrenkilde Hansen +32 2 295 30 70; Frédéric Vincent +32 2 298 7166
9
Monday 20 November: Commission launches negotiations for a Trade and Cooperation Agreement with Iraq
The news: The Commission and the Iraqi government will launch the negotiations for a Trade and Cooperation Agreement between the European Commission and Iraq. This first round of negotiations will be kicked off by Commissioners Ferrero-Waldner and Mandelson, on behalf of the Commission, and by Barham Salih, Iraqi Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs, on behalf of Iraq. By entering into contractual negotiations with Iraq, the Commission aims to: Facilitate Iraq’s engagement with the international community and with the EU in particular, to the benefit of the internal and regional stabilisation process. Stimulate and anchor ongoing institutional and socio-economic reforms at both policy and operational levels, favouring an inclusive reform mechanism at a crucial historical moment for the country; Contribute to the socio-economic development of Iraq and to the improvement of living conditions in the country; Promote bilateral trade relations in accordance with WTO principles based on the expansion of harmonious economic relations between the parties; and Ensure a minimum level of predictability, transparency and legal certainty for economic operators. The objective of entering into contractual relations with Iraq was set out in the Commission Communication “The European Union and Iraq: a strategy for engagement” of June 2004. This strategy envisages that the EU should put forward a framework for progressively closer relations with Iraq at a pace determined by the progress achieved in the political process. The formation of the Iraqi permanent government in June this year (following the elections based on the new constitution adopted in 2005) provided the Commission with an Iraqi counterpart ready to engage in negotiations of international agreements.
The events: First round of negotiations with Iraq for a Trade and Cooperation Agreement will be held in Brussels. After the meeting, there will be a VIP corner at the Berlaymont at 17h00. Available on EbS
The sources: http://ec.europa.eu/comm/external_relations/iraq/doc/com04_417_fr.pdf European Commission website: http://ec.europa.eu/comm/external_relations/iraq/intro/index.htm
The contacts: Emma Udwin + 32 2 2959577; Concha Fernández de la Puente + 32 2 295 2977 Peter Power +32 2 296 1777; Stephen Adams +32 2 296 3166
10
Monday 20 November: Conference towards an EU External Energy Policy to Assure a High Level of Supply Security
The news: The European Commission is bringing together key players in the field of energy to discuss the ways in which Europe can most effectively address the issue of energy security. The debate will focus on the external aspects of European policies on energy matters and will concentrate mainly on oil and natural gas security supplies’ issues. Several separate panel debate sessions will be held with the participation of high level representatives from the Commission, the EU Member States and key Third Countries, representatives from the industry and international organisations, followed by open and large discussions. At a time when Europe’s energy import dependency is increasing, alongside rising oil and gas prices, in an environment of strongly growing global energy demand, the need for a coherent and coordinated external policy for energy in Europe is imperative. These issues were highlighted in the Green Paper on ‘A European Strategy for Sustainable, Competitive and Secure Energy’ and have been discussed several times already by the European Council.
The events: Conference held at Berlaymont Brussels with the participation of President Barroso, Commissioners Ferrero-Waldner, Piebalgs, Mandelson and Michel and CSHR Solana, among others. Available on EbS
The sources: European Commission Website: http://ec.europa.eu/energy/green-paper-energy/index_en.htm http://ec.europa.eu/comm/external_relations/energy/index.htm
The contacts: Emma Udwin + 32 2 2959577; Concha Fernández de la Puente + 32 2 295 2977 Ferran Taradillas Espuny +32 2 296 6293; Marilyn Carruthers +32 2 299 9451
11
Monday 20 November: Commission set to propose EU ban on trade in cat and dog fur
The news: There is evidence that cat and dog fur is being put on the European market either disguised as synthetic fur, or other types of fur, or in an undeclared way. EU consumers have expressed their firm opposition to the trade and sale of fur from cats and dogs. National bans from different member states have proved insufficient to tackle this global problem. The European Parliament and Member States at the Council have repeatedly called for action at EU level to tackle this issue. EU Health and Consumer Protection Commissioner Markos Kyprianou has repeatedly stated his political commitment to seeking an EU solution to the unacceptable trade in cat and dog fur. The European Commission is currently considering a proposal by Commissioner Kyprianou to end the production, marketing and trade of cat and dog fur throughout the EU, and establishing a system of information exchange on the detection of cat and dog fur.
The events: Press conference by Commissioner Kyprianou in the Berlaymont press room at 12:30.
The sources: European Commission website: http://ec.europa.eu/food/animal/welfare/index_en.htm
The contacts: Philip Tod +32 2 296 5911; Nina Papadoulaki + 32 2 298 6378
12
Monday 20 November: Commission at the Euro Med Environment Conference
The news: The Euro-Mediterranean Partnership was launched by the Barcelona Declaration of 1995, also known as the Barcelona Process. Its aim is to enhance dialogue between the 38 different countries within that region and to address specific issues characteristic to each country thanks to bilateral Association Agreements. All Association Agreements include an environmental dimension. At the Euro-Med’s 10th Anniversary in 2005 it was decided that efforts would be pursued in order to depollute the Mediterranean Sea by 2020. This resolution transformed into what is known today as the initiative Horizon 2020, which became the environmental clean-up plan for the region. In September 2006 the Commission published a Communication on the strategy to follow to depollute the Mediterranean and protect its biodiversity. In this Communication, the Commissioned outlined these objectives: Reduce pollution levels across the region Promote sustainable use of the sea and its coastline Encourage neighbouring countries to cooperate on environmental issues Assist partner countries in developing effective institutions and policies to protect the environment Involve NGOs and the public in environmental decisions affecting them. The Euro Mediterranean Partnership 3rd Ministerial Conference will take stock of the state of the Mediterranean environment. More importantly, it will take concrete steps to improve the Mediterranean environment by adopting a concrete timetable for Horizon 2020.This will be the first time that this conference will take place outside the European Union.
The event: Euro Mediterranean Partnership 3rd Ministerial Conference on the Environment. in Cairo. Available on EbS
The sources: European Commission websites: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/enlarg/med/index.htm http://ec.europa.eu/environment/enlarg/med/horizon_2020_en.htm
The contacts: Barbara Helfferich +32 2 2982010, Lone Mikkelsen +32 2 2960567
13
Tuesday 21 November: Regions for Economic Change
The news: Regional integration has been at the core of the European Union’s policies to enhance solidarity between Member States. This is reflected in the 2007-2013 budget. The European Commission presented on November 8 2006 plans to boost innovation by bringing European regions together into strong partnerships and to help them take advantage of experience and best practice in order to contribute to the Lisbon process or the growth and jobs agenda. This new initiative was adopted under the “Territorial Cooperation” objective and introduces new ways to dynamise regional and urban networks to help them work closely with the Commission and features the following novelties: • Identification of priority themes focused on economic modernisation and the renewed Lisbon agenda such as bringing innovative ideas faster to the market, managing migration and facilitating social integration, moving to a low carbon economy and bringing e-governments to regions and businesses; • Develop a bridge between networks and regular programmes; • Enhance communication through an annual conference and awards; and • A fast track option, through which the Commission will establish volunteer networks around selected priority themes in order to provide a rapid testing ground for policy ideas.
The event: Informal Ministerial Meeting on Regional Affairs and joint press conference by Commissioner Danuta Hübner and the Finnish Presidency – will be held at the Justus Lipsius. Time to be confirmed.
The sources: IP/2006/1526 European Commission website: http://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/index_en.htm
The contacts: Ana-Paula Laissy + 32 2 295 32 58; Constantina Avraam + 32 2 295 96 67
14
Tuesday 21 to Thursday 23 November: Commission launches its new Programme of Information Communication Technologies research
The news: Commissioner Reding launches the EU’s new research programme in information and communication technologies (ICT), which is part of the Community’s 7th Framework programme (2007-13). The Community contribution to this research is in excess of 1 Billion Euro per year. Mastering information and communications technologies (ICTs) and capitalising on their use is an economic necessity for Europe not a luxury. But this requires more public private partnerships to mobilise research across Europe. The new ICT policy support programme (part of the Competitiveness and Innovation framework Programme) aims to stimulate innovation and competitiveness through the wider uptake and best use of ICT by citizens, governments and businesses and in particular SMEs.
The event: IST conference 2006 (Information Society Technologies) - Strategies for Leadership - will take place in Helsinki This is expected to attract more than 300 participants, mainly strategic decision makers and researchers drawn from the ICT sector, academia, public administrations and the European Institutions. The event highlights past successes and future research priorities for research in information and communication technologies. It will be co-organised by the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Information Society and Media, the Finnish Ministry of Trade and Industry and the Finnish Technology & Innovation Funding Agency (Tekes).
The sources: European Commission websites: http://ec.europa.eu/istevent http://ec.europa.eu/information_society/index_en.htm
The contacts: Martin Selmayr +32 2 298 1230; Mona Lund +32 2 299 9020
15
Tuesday 22 November: EU Economy: 2006 Review
The news: Each autumn, the European Commission publishes a comprehensive report on recent and prospective economic trends in the European Union. The EU Economy review also regularly studies specific topics of particular importance for economic policies. Last year it focused on the rising integration of the world economies. The EU Economy 2006 Review is devoted entirely to the issue of dynamic adjustment in the euro area based on experience in the last eight years since the creation of the euro. The report provides a solid analytical and empirical basis for understanding the channels of economic adjustment in euro-area countries. The results of the analysis lead to suggestions on how policies might be adapted to improve the functioning of the euro area.
The events: Press conference by Commissioner Almunia after the Midday Briefing in the press room of the European Parliament in Strasbourg. Time to be confirmed. Available on EbS
The sources: IP/05/1461 IP/06/976 European Commission website: http://ec.europa.eu/economy_finance/publications/european_economy/the_eu_eco nomy_review2005_en.htm
The contacts: Amelia Torres + 32 2 295 4629; Marisa González + 32 2 295 1925
16
Thursday 23 November: The Seventh Framework Programme for Research and Technological Development.
The news: The Seventh Framework Programme for Research and Technological Development is nearing the end of its adoption process, and should start in early 2007. It is the EU's main instrument for funding research in Europe and it will run from 2007 to 2013. The programme will have a total budget over the seven years of €54 billion in current prices. The Framework Programme is designed to respond to Europe's growth, employment needs and competitiveness. It recognises that knowledge is Europe’s best resource. The programme places great emphasis on research that is relevant to the needs of the European industry, to compete internationally, and well as the quality of life of Europe’s people. It maintains continuity with previous programmes, while introducing innovations such as the European Research Council, for funding frontier research or the Risk- Sharing Finance Facility which looks to unlock additional credit for research within Europe. Various changes will be made to the administration of the programme, designed to increase the participation of smaller companies and research institutes. The aim of the technical briefing is to present the key objectives of FP7, explain what has changed compared to the previous Framework Programmes and address how European research can boost Europe's growth and competitiveness.
The event: Briefing by J.M. Silva Rodriguez, Director General of DG Research in the Berlaymont at 11:00 EbS coverage
The sources: MEMO/05/114 MEMO/05/199 MEMO/05/336 MEMO/06/301 Memoclip + Infoclip
The contacts: Antonia Mochan +32 2 296 9921; Marilyn Carruthers +32 2 299 9451 [email protected]
17
Thursday 23 November: 25 years of European law online
The news: The Office for Official publications of the European Communities celebrates 25 years of electronic access to European law. What started as an experimental project within the European institutions in the 1970' was opened to the public as Celex in 1981 and has now become EUR-Lex, a gateway to EU legislation, jurisprudence and more generally documents of EU law. It provides free access to the largest documentary repository on European Union law. The content of the site goes back to 1952 and amounts to some 1 800 000 documents. In giving users access to EU documentation and Official Journal material in all the official languages of the European Union it has become the corner stone of work and study on EU law. To mark the event, a conference is dedicated to the past, present and the future of access to the European law gathering decision makers from the political and diplomatic sphere, lawyers and academia.
The event: The conference takes place at the Luxembourg Conference Centre (Hemicycle, Luxembourg-Kirchberg) on 23 November 2006 starting at 15.45. His Royal Highness the Grand-Duke of Luxembourg will honour the event with His presence. Furthermore, keynote speakers from Finnish Ministry of Justice and academia will be in the programme. The event will be followed by a cocktail. Media representatives wishing to register can e-mail to [email protected]
The sources: EUR-Lex - Central access point to EU law: http://eur-lex.europa.eu Publications Office website: http://publications.europa.eu
The contact: Heli Lehtimäki +35 2 2929 44194
18
Friday 24 November: Commission at the EU-Russia Summit in Helsinki
The news: The next EU-Russia summit should launch the negotiations for a new EU/Russia Agreement to replace the existing Partnership and Cooperation Agreement which reaches the end of its initial ten-year period next year. The leaders will also review progress on the implementation of the common spaces road maps. The EU will wish to discuss issues of concern such as respect for human rights and democracy and restrictions on media freedom (notably with reference to the killings of Anna Politkovskaya and other journalists); economic relations will also feature highly, on which the EU supports Russia's WTO accession and wants to explore possibilities for further economic integration which could be developed after WTO accession takes place; and the EU will press for progress within the new Agreement on the definition of an energy relationship based on the principles of the Energy Charter Treaty and the G8 conclusions. International issues on the agenda are likely to be the possibilities for further cooperation on the Iran nuclear program, the Middle East and North Korea; and the EU will want to call for a de-escalation of tensions between Russia and Georgia and to urge Russia to lift its restrictive measures in the interests of stability in the South Caucasus.
The events: EU-Russia Summit will be held in Helsinki with the participation of European Commission President Barroso, Finish President Vanhanen, Russian President Putin, Commissioner for External Relations and European Neighbourhood Policy, Ferrero-Waldner, Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov. Press Conference with European Commission President Barroso, Finish President Vanhanen, President Putin, High Representative Javier Solana Available on EbS
The sources: European Commission website: http://ec.europa.eu/comm/external_relations/russia/intro/index.htm Other website: http://www.eu2006.fi/en_GB/
The contacts: Johannes Laitenberger +32 2 296 5745, Pia Ahrenkilde-Hansen +32 2 296 4284 Emma Udwin + 32 2 2959577; Christina Müschen + 32 2 298 0373
19
Tuesday 28 November (tbc): Commission launches an information campaign on diplomatic and consular protection
The news: Every EU citizen travelling or living in a third country in which the Member State of which he or she is a national is not represented, has the right to diplomatic and consular protection by the authorities of any other Member State. This fundamental right is granted by Article 20 of the EC Treaty, and by the Charter of fundamental rights of the European Union (Article 46). Consular protection becomes essential in catastrophic circumstances, but also to deal with everyday problems (e.g: loosing a passport while on holiday). The remaining issue is the limited amount of consular and diplomatic representations of the Member States. The Commission proposes a number of measures to be translated into practice through legislative proposals based on Article 22 of the EC Treaty. The Communication addresses a wide range of issues, e.g.: the setting up of "common offices", offering diplomatic and consular protection – besides routine consular functions – to all European citizens lacking of a representation in a third country. the inclusion in all national passports of an adhesive label reproducing of text of Article 20 of the Treaty the simplification of procedures for financial aid to European citizens common training for Member states civil servants Information remains essential. However, a Eurobarometer survey carried out in July 2006 shows that the level of citizens' awareness is still limited. This is the reason why the Commission decided to launch an information campaign, distributing posters in travel agencies in 13 Member States, where national tourist operators associations adhered to the initiative.
The event: Press conference will be held by Commissioner Frattini. Available on EbS Launching of an information campaign (distribution of posters in travel agencies in 13 MS)
The sources: European Commission website: http://ec.europa.eu/justice_home/fsj/citizenship/diplomatic/wai/fsj_citizenship_diplo matic_fr.htm The contacts: Friso Roscam Abbing +32 2 296 6746; Riccardo Mosca +32 2 226 1404
20
Wednesday 29 November: New Communication on European Neighbourhood Policy and progress reports
The news: The Commission will issue a new Communication on "Strengthening the European Neighbourhood Policy. With the European Neighbourhood Policy set to be one of the key priorities for the forthcoming German Presidency, the Commission will set out some fresh and very concrete ideas to develop this policy further. There are new proposals on how the policy can offer more to ENP partners who are willing to reform to do this faster and better, as well as providing greater incentives for those who are still hesitant. The proposals build on the existing policy but add new elements to increase its impact. The first eighteen months of the ENP have laid the groundwork for a substantial enhancement in relations between the Union and its neighbours, as progress reports on the first Action Plans (Israel, Jordan, Moldova, Morocco, the Palestinian Authority,Tunisia and Ukraine) will demonstrate. These reports will help to focus future efforts in implementing the joint Action Plans where further work is most needed.
The event: Press conference in the Berlaymont, Brussels. Time to be confirmed.
The sources: European Commission website: http://ec.europa.eu/world/enp/index_en.htm
The contacts: Emma Udwin + 32 2 2959577; Christina Müschen + 32 2 298 0373
21
Wednesday 29 November: A comprehensive European migration policy
The news: The European Commission is going to present two Communications on the development of a comprehensive European migration policy.
The first one builds on the “Global Approach to Migration: Priority actions focusing on Africa and the Mediterranean”, which was endorsed by the December 2005 European Council. Its aim is to report on the vast amount of work carried out this year with African states and regional organisations, and then to suggest how the approach can be strengthened to include further policy areas – such as legal migration and integration policy – and to extend it where relevant to other regions. The Communication will outline a strategy for strengthening the dialogue and co- operation with countries of origin and transit and stepping up efforts in relevant policy areas (e.g. migration and development, labour immigration, integration, illegal immigration, return and readmission).
The particular issue of maritime borders management in the southern region to face the ever higher pressure of illegal migration is at the core of a second Communication. This latter aims at maximising the capacity of the European Agency for the Management of Operational Cooperation at the External Borders of the Member States of the European Union (FRONTEX) and will outline a number of new tools to improve the European integrated border management, such as, a Costal Patrol Network, a European surveillance system and operational assistance in order to improve the capacity to deal with mixed flows of illegal immigrants and asylum seekers.
The events: Press conference will be held by Commissioner Frattini at 12h15 in the Berlaymont, Brussels. Available on EbS
The sources: European Commission website: http://ec.europa.eu/justice_home/fsj/immigration/fsj_immigration_intro_en.htm http://ec.europa.eu/justice_home/index_en.htm
The contacts: Friso Roscam Abbing +32 2 296 6746; Riccardo Mosca +32 2 226 1404
22
Thursday 30 November: AIDS- Remember me? - Commission to hold “Night of the HIV/AIDS TV commercials”
The news: HIV/Aids remains a real danger for both the EU and its neighbouring countries. Figures show a general increase of the infected people due to a decrease of people’s awareness concerning contamination risks that is coupled with an increase of risky behaviour. To tackle these alarming figures, the Commission has adopted a Communication in 2005 on “Combating HIV/AIDS within the European Union and in the neighbouring countries 2006-2009”. This Communication stresses the importance of good communication practices to address this problem and prevent the spread of the disease. The 2005 Communication was followed by a series of discussions with different stakeholders, where it was confirmed that television campaigns remained the cornerstone to a communication campaign for enhancing HIV/AIDS prevention and sexual education, support and counselling. The European Commission will now co-organise an event that will consist of the screening of TV commercials, short documentaries and music videos that have promoted safer sex in Europe in the last 25 years. Other collaborators to this event include MTV, Kinepolis, and ‘La nuit des publivores’. This screening will be shown to an audience of 400 young people and relevant stakeholders who will then be voting for the best commercial. The event will be followed by a party with live music. Young Europeans have the possibility to give feed-back through a specially created web site, http://www.aids-remember-me.eu/ on the TV commercials we will see during the night, as well as to propose and post their own ideas on messages to promote safer sex.
The events: “Night of the HIV/AIDS TV commercials” will be held in Kinepolis Brussels at 19:00, on the eve of the December 1st “World AIDS Day”. Journalists who wish to participate can register at www.aids-remember-me.eu
The sources: European Commission website: www.aids-remember-me.eu
The contacts: Philip Tod +32 2 296 5911; Nina Papadoulaki + 32 2 298 6378
23
Thursday 30 November: Identifying Europeans' expectations regarding information
The news The European Commission is to publish a special Eurobarometer which deal with Europeans' views on communication and the European Union. The survey will tackle various issues, including the enthusiasm amongst citizens for being informed on European affairs and how important this information is to them, the sources of information on the EU that are used and those that are preferred, and the quality of both the information received and the work of information channels. A further objective of this Eurobarometer survey is to make a constructive contribution to the development and analysis of a "European public sphere", a long-term objective set out in the White Paper on Communication. This survey was produced with a view to the consultation announced in the White Paper on a European Communication Policy and presented by the European Commission in February 2006. It is one of a series of special Eurobarometer opinion polls in the White Paper, aiming to gather the best possible data for the analysis of European opinions, needed to enhance the involvement of citizens in the debate in Europe.
The event Technical briefing in the Berlaymont press room at 11.30 a.m.
The sources IP/06/103 SPEECH/06/271 White Paper on a European Communication Policy http://ec.europa.eu/communication_white_paper/doc/white_paper_en.pdf
The contacts Mikolaj Dowgielewicz +32 2 29 50 051; Mona Lund + 32 2 29 99 020
24
Wednesday 6 December: Negotiating mandate for an Association Agreement with Central America and the Andean Community
The news: The Commission will adopt a recommendation for a Council Decision authorizing the Commission to open negotiations for the conclusion of Association Agreements between the European Union and the Central American and the Andean Community regions respectively. The Association Agreements are envisaged as comprehensive agreements, embracing the whole array of the existing multifaceted relations in one single contractual agreement, thus reflecting more visibly the depth and variety of the bi- regional links and developing them further. The Associations should be founded on greater political cooperation and enhanced cooperation in all matters of common interest. The Associations should also provide for comprehensive, balanced free trade agreements. The decision to conclude wide-ranging Association Agreements stems from a favorable context to make a further qualitative step in the relationship between the two regions which is based on a clear political commitment made by both sides at the EU Latin America - Caribbean Summits in Madrid 2002, Guadalajara 2004 and Vienna 2006, as well as on a renewed momentum in favor of regional integration in these two regions.
The event: Press Conference –tbc Available on EbS
The sources: European Commission website: http://ec.europa.eu/comm/external_relations/andean/intro/index.htm
The contacts: Emma Udwin + 32 2 295 9577; Concha Fernandez de la Puente + 32 2 298 0373
25
Friday 8 December: Opening of Community Reference Laboratory for Food Contact Materials by the Commission
The news: Food packaging plays an important role in protecting our food from deterioration. Therefore food packaging has to be safe and migration of chemical substances into the food needs to be strictly controlled. This requires harmonised analytical methods and reference materials to guarantee the same level of consumer protection all over Europe. With its unique experience in safety of food contact materials, the Community Reference Laboratory for Food Contact Materials (CRL FCM) will not only provide national control laboratories with harmonised analytical tools, but it will also co- ordinate the Network of National Reference Laboratories to favour exchange of information, capacity building and training.
The events: Official inauguration at the Commission's Joint Research Centre in Ispra (Italy) with the Directors-General of Health and Consumer Protection, Joint Research Centre, the Executive Director of the European Food Safety Authority, the Director of the Confederation of the Food and Drink Industries, as well as representatives from Member States National Reference Laboratories and consumer organisations. Technical briefing at the Berlaymont, Brussels followed by a reception.
The sources: European Commission website: http://crl-fcm.jrc.it/
The contacts: Antonia Mochan +32 2 296 9921; Marilyn Carruthers +32 2 299 9451
26