AN ROINN GNÓTHAÍ EACHTRACHA

DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

Report to the Houses of the on developments in the European Union

1 July 2020 – 31 December 2020

Table of Contents

INTRODUCTION ...... 3 BREXIT...... 4 Conclusion of EU-UK Negotiations ...... 4 Implementation of Withdrawal Agreement and Protocol ...... 5 Readiness for the end of the Transition Period ...... 5 MULTIANNUAL FINANCIAL FRAMEWORK ...... 7 CONFERENCE ON THE FUTURE OF EUROPE ...... 9 COMMON FOREIGN AND SECURITY POLICY (CFSP) ...... 10 COMMON SECURITY AND DEFENCE POLICY (CSDP)...... 10 CYBERSECURITY ...... 11 HYBRID THREATS AND DISINFORMATION ...... 11 TERRORISM ...... 12 HUMAN RIGHTS ...... 12 CONFLICT RESOLUTION ...... 13 DISARMAMENT AND NON-PROLIFERATION ...... 13 EU-UN COOPERATION / EU-SPECIFIC UN SECURITY COUNCIL MATTERS...... 14 COMMUNICATING EUROPE INITIATIVE 2020 ...... 17 ENLARGEMENT AND WESTERN BALKANS ...... 22 EUROPEAN NEIGHBOURHOOD ...... 23 Eastern Partnership ...... 23 Central Asia ...... 24 Council of Europe ...... 24 Russia ...... 25 Ukraine ...... 26 DEVELOPMENT COOPERATION AND AFRICA ...... 28 MIDDLE EAST & NORTH AFRICA ...... 30 Algeria...... 30 Iran ...... 30 Libya ...... 30 Lebanon ...... 31 Middle East Peace Process ...... 31 Southern Neighbourhood ...... 31

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LATIN AMERICA AND THE CARIBBEAN ...... 32 Venezuela ...... 32 EU- Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) Informal Ministerial Meeting ...... 32 ASIA – PACIFIC ...... 33 China ...... 33 India ...... 33 EU- Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Foreign Ministers’ Meeting ...... 34 APPENDIX ...... 35

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INTRODUCTION

This report summarises key policy developments in the EU during the six-month period July to June 2020, when Germany held the Presidency of the Council of the European Union.

This report is submitted in accordance with the requirements of Section 2(5) of the European Union (Scrutiny) Act 2002.

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BREXIT

Over the period July-December 2020, the Department of Foreign Affairs continued to coordinate the whole-of-Government response to Brexit with the Department of the Taoiseach, including on the negotiation of the future EU-UK relationship, on the implementation of the Withdrawal Agreement and on readiness for the end of the transition period on 31 December 2020.

Conclusion of EU-UK Negotiations

On 24 December 2020, the EU and the UK concluded negotiations on a Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA). The TCA, together with the Withdrawal Agreement, including the Protocol on Ireland/Northern Ireland, means that Ireland’s key objectives in the Brexit process have been achieved, in particular:

 protection of the Good Friday Agreement and the gains of the peace process, including avoiding a hard border on the island of Ireland;

 ensuring the best possible outcome for trade and the economy, notably tariff and quota free trade with the UK and protection of Ireland’s place in the Single Market;

 It creates a new stable relationship with the UK for the Irish transport and energy sectors and ensures cooperation between police services on these islands continues.

However, the agreement does not replicate the status quo. The UK is no longer part of the EU's Single Market or Customs Union, which means that there are now checks and controls for goods moving from, to or through Great Britain. Seamless trade no longer exists.

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Implementation of Withdrawal Agreement and Protocol

On 8 December, it was announced that agreement in principle had been reached between the EU and the UK on outstanding issues regarding the implementation of the Protocol on Ireland/Northern Ireland. This positive development came following significant and productive engagement between the EU and the UK on implementation of the Protocol, as provided for under the Withdrawal. Importantly, it included the commitment by the UK to withdraw clauses 44, 45 and 47 of the Internal Market Bill, bringing it back into line with its legal obligations under the Withdrawal Agreement.

Ireland recognises that for Northern Ireland, and indeed for businesses across the island, adapting to the changes since 1 January has been challenging. We continue to engage with all stakeholders, including with the business community and political representatives in Northern Ireland, to ensure the smoothest possible implementation of the Protocol.

Readiness for the end of the Transition Period

The whole-of-Government preparation for Brexit continued, with a focus on ensuring Irish citizens and businesses were ready from the end of the transition period. The Government also continued its engagement with our EU partners for responses at the EU level. This work was overseen by an Assistant Secretaries Group on Brexit Readiness, co- chaired by the Department of the Taoiseach and the Department of Foreign Affairs.

On 9 September the Government published its Brexit Readiness Action Plan. Departments and Agencies intensified their readiness work, including through legislation, supports for business and other sectors and stakeholder outreach. This work was supported by a major and widespread public communications campaign including radio, TV, print and online ads underpinned by a broad range of vital information on supports available and with the steps businesses need to take set out on gov.ie/Brexit.

Budget 2021 provided for additional staff for Departments and Agencies to support and carry out checks and controls, bringing the total additional staffing provision, as a result of Brexit, to around 1,500. The Government also decided to establish a €3.4 billion Recovery

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Fund to stimulate increased domestic demand and employment in response to COVID-19 and Brexit.

The Withdrawal of the United Kingdom from the European Union (Consequential Provisions) Act 2020 - the “2020 Brexit Omnibus Act”- was introduced into the Dáil in October and signed into law by the President on 10 December 2020. It deals with the range of complex immediate and permanent changes that arise at the end of the transition period.

The 2020 Act consists of 22 Parts under the remits of Ministers responsible for eleven Departments and draws on the Brexit Omnibus Act 2019, which was in place for the earlier no-deal deadline of 29 March 2019. Many Parts of the 2019 Act could not be commenced once the Withdrawal Agreement was concluded and entered into force.

At EU level, in the second half of 2020, Ireland secured amendments to the EU Official Controls Regulation to ensure goods could continue to move across the UK Landbridge. Ireland also engaged on the adoption of EU contingency legislation on basic air connectivity, aviation safety, basic road connectivity and fisheries ahead of the end of the Brexit transition period.

On 25 December, the European Commission published a proposal for the Brexit Adjustment Reserve, an EU-wide fund of over €5 billion aimed at supporting the sectors most adversely affected by Brexit. Ireland’s initial allocation was more than €1 billion. The Commission’s proposal, including initial allocations, will now be considered by the Council of the EU and by the European Parliament before it is finalised.

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MULTIANNUAL FINANCIAL FRAMEWORK

The President of the European Council, Charles Michel, continued to take forward work on the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) for the period 2021-2027 with the aim of reaching a final agreement. In the lead up to a special European Council on the MFF and the Next Generation EU (NGEU) on 17 July, President Michel continued to engage with Member States bilaterally on issues of ongoing disagreement. He issued a revised Negotiating Box on 10 July in the form of draft Conclusions for the upcoming European Council. Key obstacles to agreement continued to be different views between Member States on the overall size of the MFF budget and the new unprecedented NGEU Recovery Instrument requiring borrowing on the markets by the Commission for allocating non- repayable grants as well as loans to Member States to support their recovery from the impact of the pandemic.

The European Council met in Brussels over four days (17-21 July) to seek to reach agreement. Intensive, and at times difficult, discussions largely focused on five key issues: the overall amounts for the MFF and NGEU; the balance of loans and grants; the allocation of the new Recovery and Resilience Facility under the NGEU and its governance; a rule of law mechanism to protect the EU budget and rebates for the highest net contributors. President Michel tabled a revised proposal on the second day of the meeting which resulted in further lengthy and intensive discussions. This allowed President Michel to table two further compromise proposals on the evening and early morning of 20/21 July, the last of which was ultimately accepted unanimously by the European Council. Key elements of the agreed package were an MFF of €1,074 billion for 2021-2027, which protected Cohesion funding, the common agricultural policy, Erasmus and Horizon Europe. A NGEU Recovery Instrument of €750 billion was also agreed, including €390 billion in grants and €360 billion in loans, bringing the total MFF/NGEU package to €1,804 billion. Other elements were an overall target of 30% for climate spending and a new Brexit Adjustment Reserve of €5 billion to address the impacts on sectors and regions most impacted by Brexit. Following the July agreement, the German Presidency led discussions with the European Parliament on reaching agreement on the MFF/NGEU

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which required the European Parliament’s assent. After lengthy negotiations, a compromise package was agreed on 10 November which included additional allocations for certain programmes but within the ceilings of the July agreement.

The July agreement stated that a regime of conditionality to protect the budget and Next Generation EU (NGEU) would be introduced. The Presidency tabled a compromise proposal on 27 September intended to strike a balance between the various Member States’ positions on this contentious issue and to satisfy the European Parliament’s request for strong rule of law conditionality in the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF)/NGEU. Despite the concerns of many Member States, the Presidency was given a mandate to open negotiations with the European Parliament on 30 September and after weeks of discussion, agreement was reached on 5 November. The Presidency sought to get political agreement on the overall MFF and Recovery package on 16 November but failed to achieve it due to ongoing opposition by some Member States to the rule of law mechanism agreement. After intensive engagement with some Member States to find a compromise solution, the Presidency issued draft European Conclusions on the rule of law mechanism prior to the European Council of 10-11 December. The focus of the draft Conclusions was on clarifying how the draft Regulation on a general regime of conditionality for the protection of the EU budget would apply. They were unanimously adopted and the entire MFF/NGEU package for the period 2021-2027 was endorsed by leaders. The European Parliament approved the MFF/NGEU package at its final plenary session of 2020 on 16 December and the Council unanimously approved it via written procedure on 17 December.

In addition to the adoption of the five Regulations as part of the MFF/NGEU package, work on concluding 53 MFF/NGEU related sectoral files progressed in parallel, agreement was reached with the EP on 22 files (e.g. Horizon Europe, Erasmus+, Recovery and Resilience Facility) and the European Commission published its proposal for the Brexit Adjustment Reserve on 25 December 2020.

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CONFERENCE ON THE FUTURE OF EUROPE

The Conference on the Future of Europe is a proposed series of conferences aimed at promoting greater citizen involvement in the European Union. Ireland has welcomed the Conference and in our discussions to date with the various EU Institutions and other Member States, we have repeatedly called for the Conference to focus on delivering the EU’s Strategic Agenda rather than examining any possible treaty changes. Minister Byrne spoke to the Joint Oireachtas Committee on EU Affairs in November 2020 on Ireland’s priorities for the Conference and he also took part in a discussion with young people from across the EU on the future of Europe at the General Affairs Council in December. The original launch date of the Conference was postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic but was launched on Europe Day (9 May) this year.

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COMMON FOREIGN AND SECURITY POLICY (CFSP)

During the second half of 2020, EU Foreign Ministers met in a variety of physical and videoconference formats and continued to discuss a range of foreign policy issues. The multi-faceted impact of the Covid-19 pandemic and the EU’s response to it was discussed and assessed from a number of different perspectives. In July, Ministers discussed the impact of Covid-19 in Latin America and the Caribbean in particular, while the EU’s Southern Neighbourhood was discussed at the September Foreign Affairs Council (FAC) meeting. Developments in Belarus and the Eastern Mediterranean, as well EU-Russia, EU- US and EU-African Union relations were also the subject of discussions throughout this period, with the FAC adopting a number of actions, including packages of restrictive measures, in response to evolving events. In November, the FAC had a discussion on multilateralism, while in December, the Council established a global human rights sanctions regime.

COMMON SECURITY AND DEFENCE POLICY (CSDP)

Ireland is an active participant in both civilian and military CSDP missions and operations. As of the start of December 2020, 19 seconded civilian experts, including one member of An Garda Síochána, were serving in six of the EU’s eleven civilian missions: in Europe / the Caucasus (Georgia, Kosovo and Ukraine), the Middle East (Iraq) and Africa (Niger and Somalia). At the same time, 28 members of the Defence Forces were serving in three UN- mandated EU military missions and operations; the EU Training Mission in Mali, Operation Althea in Bosnia-Herzegovina, and Operation Irini’s Operational headquarters in Rome.

On 23 November 2020, the second Annual Review Conference (ARC) of the Civilian CSDP Compact was held virtually. The ARC was followed by December 2020 Council Conclusions on the Civilian CSDP Compact, which commended the progress made towards implementing the Compact’s 2023 targets, and endorsed waypoints to be met in 2021.

In November 2020, the Council approved Conclusions on the first Strategic Review of Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO). The review assesses progress made on

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PESCO in its initial 2018–2020 phase and looks ahead to the next phase of implementation in 2021–2025. Separately, in October 2020, Member States reached agreement on the principles allowing for third state participation in PESCO projects.

CYBERSECURITY

The EU Security Union Strategy 2020-2025 was published on 24 July 2020 and contains proposals to enhance internal EU security to combat terrorism and organised crime, and to promote cybersecurity. The new EU Cybersecurity Strategy is a key component of the Security Union strategy and was published on 16 December 2020. The Strategy aims to strengthen the physical and digital security of critical networks and network infrastructure, as well as promoting the EU’s international engagement to maintain and promote a global, free, accessible and safe cyberspace, where human rights apply online as well as offline. The Strategy includes proposals for enhanced cyber capacity-building with third countries.

On 30 July 2020, Member States agreed to impose EU sanctions against several individuals and entities responsible for cyber-attacks, including an attempted attack on the Organisation for the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (OPCW). This was the first time such measures have been used since their adoption. Further sanctions were imposed in October 2020 related to hacking of the German in 2015. The cyber sanctions aim to prevent and discourage malicious cyber activity and protect citizens and business across the EU.

HYBRID THREATS AND DISINFORMATION

In September 2020, the Commission presented its review of the implementation and effectiveness of the Code of Practice on Disinformation. The European Democracy Action Plan, published on 3 December 2020, also proposes a range of measures to tackle disinformation. Council Conclusions were adopted on 15 December, focused on strengthening resilience against and countering hybrid threats, including disinformation.

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TERRORISM

Work continued on the implementation of Council Conclusions adopted on 16 June, which committed to strengthening EU external action to counter terrorism and violent extremism. In December 2020, the Commission presented a new Counter-Terrorism agenda. It includes new measures to identify, prevent and respond to terrorism internally and internationally.

HUMAN RIGHTS

In November 2020, the Foreign Affairs Council (FAC) adopted the EU Action Plan On Human Rights And Democracy (2020-2024). The Plan outlines the EU’s strategy and priorities for the promotion and protection of human rights and the advancement of democracy in its relations with third countries over the next five years.

In the same month, the EU put forward its third Gender Action Plan, which sets out the EU’s ambitions to promote gender equality and women’s empowerment through all external action of the European Union.

In December, the FAC adopted Council Decision 2020/1999 and Council Regulation 2020/1998 establishing the EU Global Human Rights Sanctions Regime. The regime can target individuals, entities and bodies – including state and non-state actors – responsible for serious human rights violations and abuses worldwide. Targeted restrictive measures in the form of travel bans and financial sanctions can be applied to acts such as genocide, crimes against humanity, torture, slavery, extrajudicial killings, arbitrary arrests or detentions. Other human rights violations or abuses can also fall under the scope of the sanctions regime where those violations or abuses are widespread, systematic or are otherwise of serious concern as regards the objectives of the EU’s Common Foreign and Security Policy. It will be for the Council, acting upon a proposal from a Member State or from the High Representative of the EU, to establish, review and amend the sanctions list.

The 44th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council took place in June and July in a hybrid format of both virtual and in-person meetings. The EU was successful in

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achieving the adoption of a resolution on the human rights situation in Belarus. Over 30 statements were delivered on behalf of the EU. The EU continued to maintain a visible and leading presence at the Human Rights Council at the 45th session in September 2020. The EU successfully negotiated the adoption of resolutions on the human rights situation in and Belarus, as well as a thematic resolution on the Rights of the Child.

CONFLICT RESOLUTION

Ireland contributed to the development of a new Concept on EU Peace Mediation, which was adopted by the Foreign Affairs Council on 7 December 2020. The Concept builds on and replaces the 2009 Concept on strengthening EU Mediation and Dialogue Capacities and reflects a heightened ambition for the EU in the practice of peace mediation. The document proposes an integrated, coherent and strategic approach to peace support, whereby the EU uses all of the instruments and partnerships available to it, including joint engagement with regional and multilateral organisations, such as the UN, and partnerships with civil society actors. It also outlines the key features of EU mediation practice, as well as its strengths and comparative advantages.

DISARMAMENT AND NON-PROLIFERATION

Between June and December 2020, the EU continued to engage across the disarmament, non-proliferation and arms control portfolio. The EU was actively engaged in debates, agreeing and delivering statements in the context of the 75th Session of the UN General Assembly First Committee General Debate; the Convention on Cluster Munitions; the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention; the Conference on Disarmament; the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons; the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA); the Preparatory Commission for the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization; and the Hague Code of Conduct.

The EU held high-level political dialogue with the United States on non-proliferation, disarmament, arms control and CBRN (Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear) risk mitigation, and also held political dialogue on disarmament and non-proliferation issues

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with Cuba. Outreach was also undertaken by the EU to third states on North Korea, the Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention and the International Atomic Energy Agency’s Small Quantities Protocols.

In its engagement on nuclear issues, the EU issued:

 Council Decision (CFSP) 2020/1656 of 6 November 2020 on Union support for the activities of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in the areas of nuclear security and in the framework of the implementation of the EU Strategy against Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction.

In relation to conventional weapons, the EU issued:

 Council Decision (CFSP) 2020/2142 of 17 December 2020 amending Decision (CFSP) 2018/1789 of 19 November 2018 in support of combatting the illicit trade and proliferation of small arms and light weapons (SALW) in the Member States of the League of Arab States (Note: this was an extension of Decision (CFSP) 2018/1789 for a further six months due to COVID-19 restrictions and the postponement of a number of project activities)  Council Decision (CFSP) 2020/979 of 7 July 2020 in support of the development of an internationally recognised system for the validation of arms and ammunition management according to open international standards

EU-UN COOPERATION / EU-SPECIFIC UN SECURITY COUNCIL MATTERS

In July, the Foreign Affairs Council adopted Conclusions on EU priorities for the 75th session of the United Nations General Assembly. The Council Conclusions set out the EU’s priorities at the UN for the period September 2020 to September 2021, including the promotion of multilateralism, advancing human rights and gender equality, promoting peace and security, building a fair globalisation, accelerating the global transition towards a sustainable and climate-neutral future, and leading the transition to a new digital world.

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EU representatives played an active role during UN General Assembly (UNGA) High Level Week in September 2020. Charles Michel President of the European Council addressed the UNGA General Debate and the High Level Meeting to commemorate the 75th Anniversary of the United Nations. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen participated in the Summit on Biodiversity, and the High Level Meeting to mark the 25th anniversary of the Fourth World Conference on Women (Beijing+25).

In September, the EU and UN signed a Framework Agreement on Mutual Support in the context of their respective missions and operations in the field. This will facilitate concrete cooperation between EU and UN missions and operations in the areas of logistical, medical and security support.

In November, the Foreign Affairs Council discussed how to strengthen the EU’s role and influence in the multilateral system, including the UN, as part of the process to inform the preparation of the planned Joint Communication on strengthening the EU’s contribution to rules-based multilateralism.

In the context of the EU-UN Strategic Partnership on peace operations and crisis management, 2019-2021, the 28th semi-annual EU-UN Steering Committee on Crisis Management took place virtually on 27 November 2020. Discussions focused on practical cooperation between missions and operations in areas of mutual engagement.

The EU engaged in the 2020 Review of the UN Peacebuilding Architecture, and submitted key messages as part of the process, reiterating the EU’s staunch support for the UN’s Peacebuilding work and its central role in operationalising the conflict prevention agenda.

In the period July–December 2020, there were numerous visits and meeting between UN and EU officials. Notably, on 10 September 2020, High Representative (HRVP) Borrell spoke with UN Secretary-General Guterres on issues of key concern related to peace and security, including the situation in Libya, the crisis in Belarus, and tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean. A number of virtual visits to Brussels by Special Representatives of the UN Secretary-General (SRSGs) took place during the period, including by the SRSGs for South Sudan (September 2020) and Somalia (November 2020).

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EU Member States on the UN Security Council continued the practice of delivering media stakeouts (statements) after certain discussions of the UN Security Council. As an incoming member of the Security Council, Ireland was invited to participate in a number of EU media stakeouts on country and regional situations on the Council agenda, including on Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Kosovo, Libya, the Middle East Peace Process and Syria.

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COMMUNICATING EUROPE INITIATIVE 2020

The Communicating Europe Initiative (CEI) was established in 1995 to raise awareness about the European Union and to improve the quality and accessibility of public information on European issues. The Covid-19 pandemic led to delays in the launch of CEI in 2020. The initiative was subsequently launched on 10 July. Following evaluation, twenty project proposals were approved and funding of €87,300 was allocated (list follows). The partners represented a wide range of community-based groups, youth organisations, educational bodies and local media companies from across the country.

Highlights of the 2020 CEI scheme included the production of two local radio series with Radio Kerry and Kilkenny/Carlow Local Radio (KCLR). The stations aired popular weekly discussions related to the EU’s impact on various aspects of life in those counties. Minister for Foreign Affairs Simon Coveney and Minister of State for European Affairs, Thomas Byrne took part in these radio projects.

Further details on 2020 CEI projects can be found at www.dfa.ie.

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Communicating Europe Initiative 2020 Projects

Name of Organisation Name of Project

Aontas Adult Learning and Global Citizenship: Sustaining European Cohesion and Challenging the Politics of Fear Audrey Galvin, UL Communicating Europe through people and places: 3rd level journalism competition Ballinderreen Community A Place for Ireland in Europe: community events Centre, Galway Centre for Law and the Communicating EU Environmental Law: Policy and Practice 2020 Environment, UCC Children's Rights Alliance Making Promises Real: the EU Child Guarantee on Child Poverty

DCU Brexit Institute Massive Open Online Course on "The European Union: Crisis and Recovery" European Youth Parliament EYP Ireland Conferences

Gaelscoil Choláiste Mhuire, UN Sustainable Development Goals 2020 – 2050: Ireland’s Role in Europe Dublin Irish Association for Europe and the Future of Ireland’s Ports, Coastal Communities and Contemporary European Maritime Sector Studies, UCC Inniscarra Twinning Connecting for Europe: Inniscarra Song and Art Contest Association, Cork Junior Achievement Ireland Europe4U - 2nd level schools programme

Kilkenny Carlow Radio Station ‘What Has Europe Ever Done For Us?’ Radio Series

Kilkenomics The David McWilliams Podcast: What does the Post-Brexit World Look Like? Near FM, Dublin Podcast series: The EU, Brexit and the response to Covid-19

Political Studies Association of Don’t Debate, Deliberate! Developing Ireland’s Citizens Dialogues on the Ireland - UCC Future of Europe through deliberative procedures Radio Kerry ‘The EU and ME’ Radio Series

Royal Irish Academy Lessons from the Peace and Interreg Schemes to enhance the contribution of Peace Plus – an online dialogue event Smashing Times Theatre Citizens in an Equal Europe – A Creative Celebration of European Rights Company, Dublin and Values The Wheel Future Europe – Irish Civil Society Shaping Europe’s Future

Waterford Sustainable Living United in Diversity, United in Action: The European Union for Young Initiative People

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EU CAPACITY BUILDING PROGRAMME – Access Europe

The Department is funding a new EU Capacity Building Programme (‘Access Europe’), which was launched in November 2020 by The Wheel, the organisation selected as the National Contact Point for the programme, following a public tender. The Wheel is Ireland’s national association of community and voluntary organisations, charities and social enterprises.

The purpose of the three-year programme is to assist Irish civil society organisations, including NGOs, community groups, and local authorities, to better access EU funds. This will be done by publicising EU funding opportunities through social media and website channels, and by providing a direct support service through targeted training and information events. This will particularly benefit smaller organisations.

Further information can be found on the programme’s dedicated website: www.accesseurope.ie.

EUROPEAN MOVEMENT IRELAND

European Movement Ireland is a voluntary, not-for-profit, independent, membership- based organisation working to develop the connection between Ireland and Europe. During 2020, EMI was in receipt of funding in respect of the following programmes.

Future of Ireland in Europe Communications & Outreach Project

This three-year Future of Ireland in Europe Communications and Outreach project came to an end in December 2020. Annual funding of €250,000 was provided towards this project. The project focussed on public outreach on European issues, an area in which EMI has long and deep experience. Through a series of Citizen Dialogues, podcast production and an alumni mentorship network, the programme aimed to generate public debate as well as engaging with citizens and with different sectors through various media platforms, particularly social media. The project also engaged with a wide range of networks at home and across the EU. Throughout 2020, 15 Future of Europe podcasts with key EU stakeholders, citizens and diplomats were created.

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Further information can be found on the EMI website: https://www.europeanmovement.ie/programmes/future-of-europe/

Annual Block Grant

A block grant (€175,000 in 2020) has been paid to EMI for many years to support its core activities. This is provided to assist towards its overall running costs and also towards its range of ongoing EU focused activities.

Blue Star programme

EMI manage this programme on behalf of the Department of Foreign Affairs, following the award of a public tender in 2017 (annual funding - €45,000). The Blue Star Programme requires teachers and primary school pupils to carry out projects and tasks related to the History, Geography, Culture and Institutions of the EU. 243 schools participated in the 2019/2020 programme. Due to the impact of Covid-19 not all schools were able to complete the programme and arrangements were made to allow them to roll this over to the next academic year. 238 schools are participating in the 2020/2021 programme, which will focus on the Conference on the Future of Europe.

Further information on the Blue Star Programme can be found on EMI’s website: https://www.europeanmovement.ie/blue-star-programme/

INSTITUTE OF INTERNATIONAL AND EUROPEAN AFFAIRS (IIEA)

The Institute of International and European Affairs is an international affairs think tank. They are an independent, not-for-profit organisation with charitable status. Their aim is to provide a forum for all those interested in EU and International affairs to engage in debate and discussion, and to evaluate and share policy options.

The Department funds the IIEA as follows:

 An annual membership subscription, as paid by a number of Government Departments, of €10,000.

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 Development Cooperation and Africa Division (DCAD) has engaged with the IIEA including through its Development matters series.

 The Department is funding a three-year integrated programme (Global Europe 2020 – 2023) which commenced in September 2020. Funding for the programme is €250,000 per annum. The programme consists of research, events, and public engagement and is a direct follow up to the successful Future of the EU27 programme which ran from the second half of 2017 to the end of June 2020.

Further information on Global Europe can be found on IIEA’s website: https://www.iiea.com/global-europe/

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ENLARGEMENT AND WESTERN BALKANS

In regards to the Western Balkans, the European Commission published its Annual Enlargement Package and country reports in October 2020. While progress has been made, there is a general need for more progress on fundamental reforms, in particular on rule of law issues. In addition, following the appointment in April 2020 of former Slovak Foreign Minister Miroslav Lajčák as European Union Special Representative for the Belgrade-Pristina Dialogue and other Western Balkan regional issue, the Belgrade-Pristina Dialogue resumed in July with a series of meetings.

On Turkey, the European Council Conclusions of 10-11 December expressed regret at Turkey’s continued provocations against EU Member States and agreed to adopt some additional listings concerning restrictive measures in view of Turkey’s unauthorised drilling activities in the Eastern Mediterranean. A positive EU-Turkey agenda remains on the table if Turkey adopts a more constructive approach. The Conclusions also requested that High Representative (HRVP) Borrell submit a report on the state of play on the Eastern Mediterranean issue and EU-Turkey relations, with options on how to proceed, including the possible extension of restrictive measures. This report will be discussed at the European Council meeting in March 2021.

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EUROPEAN NEIGHBOURHOOD

Eastern Partnership

EU Member States, Partner countries and civil society actors worked on the development of a new set of deliverables for the Eastern Partnership beyond 2020. A Senior Officials meeting was held in October, followed by panels in November and December on rule of law, transport, business, security, youth and education, and the Eastern Partnership Civil Society Forum Annual Assembly. The date for a physical Summit in 2021 could not be fixed, due to uncertain public health conditions. However, in line with the Taoiseach’s commitment during the virtual Eastern Partnership Leaders’ Summit in June 2020, work began on opening an Embassy in Kyiv in 2021, which will be Ireland’s first resident Mission in a Partner country.

The Council position on a technical update in customs law under the EU-Georgia Association Agreement was approved, as was the position to be taken on amending the list of individuals to serve as arbitrators in dispute-settlement proceedings under the EU- Armenia Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement (CEPA).

Eastern Partnership developments were largely overshadowed by the deterioration in the human rights situation in Belarus, conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan, and political challenges in Moldova and Georgia:

 Belarus: The EU rejected the result of the fraudulent 9 August Presidential election in Belarus and imposed targeted sanctions against 88 individuals responsible for the use of state violence against peaceful protesters and electoral fraud and seven entities supporting the regime of Alexander Lukashenko. The EU kept the human rights situation in the country high on the agenda in international settings and worked to redirect EU funds away from the authorities and towards Belarusian civil society.

 Nagorno-Karabakh: The EU kept a close watch on developments in the Nagorno- Karabakh region following the outbreak of hostilities between Armenia and Azerbaijan and the eventual ceasefire agreement in November, brokered by

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Russia. The EU provided close to €4 million in humanitarian aid and maintained support to the OSCE Minsk Process as the appropriate forum through which to resolve outstanding issues, including the ultimate status of Nagorno-Karabakh.

 Georgia: The EU worked to mediate between the majority government of Georgia and the political opposition who have refused to take up their seats following parliamentary elections they claim were rigged.

 Moldova: The EU welcomed the election of pro-EU Moldovan President Maia Sandu, who was inaugurated in December, and monitored the political situation closely, as the political landscape is split between pro-EU and pro-Russian parties.

Central Asia

Negotiations regarding Enhanced Partnership Cooperation Agreements (EPCA) with Central Asian made further progress during the period, but the COVID-19 pandemic has caused some delays. Legal scrubbing continued on the EPCA with the Kyrgyz Republic, with its completion, along with that of the EPCA with Uzbekistan, now delayed into 2021. Uzbekistan also continued to make progress along its path to potential Generalised Scheme of Preferences plus (GSP+) membership with a decision by the EU expected early in 2021. The European External Action Service (EEAS) continued preparing a draft- negotiated EPCA with Tajikistan. The EPCAs will lead to closer cooperation between the Central Asian states and the EU in line with the 2019 EU-Central Asia Strategy. The EU Special Representative for Central Asia, Peter Burian, visited the Kyrgyz Republic to offer assistance in the wake of violent protests against the October parliamentary elections that led to the resignation of President Jeenbekov.

Council of Europe

The Greek Presidency of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe held the annual Ministerial meeting in November, in hybrid format. Minister Coveney made a statement outlining the need for a multilateral approach to address the public health crisis. The thematic debate focused on the most pressing policy issues of 2020, from the effect the COVID-19 pandemic has had on democratic societies, to the significance of the

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Istanbul convention and the spread of hate speech across Europe. Following the debate, the Athens Declaration on effectively responding to a public health crisis with full respect for human rights, democracy and the rule of law was adopted as a Presidency declaration. The next Ministerial meeting will revert to its traditional Spring slot and take place in Germany in May 2021.

The October session of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) was unable to take place due to the pandemic, although business continued with monthly Standing Committee meetings held virtually. Full arrangements were put in place to allow the January 2021 PACE session to take place in hybrid format, including procedures to permit online voting to fill the four outstanding vacancies for Judges and Council of Europe leadership positions.

Ireland ratified the Council of Europe Convention on Protection of Children against Sexual Exploitation and Sexual Abuse (Lanzarote Convention) in December 2020. The Convention has now been ratified by all Council of Europe member states and Tunisia.

Russia

The conflict in Ukraine, the illegal annexation of Crimea, the implementation of the Minsk Agreements, and the human rights situation in Crimea and Russia continued to strain relations between Russia and the EU. In addition, the poisoning of Alexey Navalny with a chemical weapon, in August 2020 further damaged relations, and dominated discussions on Russia during this period. In both the September Foreign Affairs Council and the October European Council the EU called upon Russia to conduct a transparent investigation into the poisoning and to cooperate with the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW). Unfortunately, the Russian government has not cooperated with either of these requests. In October, the EU imposed travel bans on and froze the assets of six senior Russian officials believed to be involved in the poisoning. The issue has been discussed several times at both the European Council and the Foreign Affairs Council as situation developed.

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A number of EU restrictive measures against Russia introduced as a result of Russia’s involvement in the conflict in Ukraine were extended. In December, the Council extended restrictive measures by six months until 31 July 2021 in respect of actions undermining or threatening the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine. These include a freezing of funds, and a prohibition against making funds or other economic resources available to the listed persons. The Council also prolonged economic sanctions targeting specific sectors of the Russian economy until 31 July 2021. The measures target the financial, energy and defence sectors, and the area of dual-use goods, and the duration of the measures is linked to the full implementation of the Minsk Agreements.

Ukraine

On 6 October, Charles Michel, President of the European Council, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine, and Josep Borrell, Vice-President of the European Commission met in Brussels for the 22nd EU-Ukraine Summit. The two sides reaffirmed their continued commitment to strengthening the political association and economic integration of Ukraine with the European Union, on the basis of the Association Agreement and its Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area. The EU reiterated its unwavering support and commitment to Ukraine's independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognised borders.

The EU reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the political association and economic integration of Ukraine with the European Union, including through continued close cooperation to strengthen the rule of law, advance reforms, foster sustainable economic growth, support the green and digital transitions and increase resilience. The two sides discussed the implementation of the Association Agreement following its entry into force in September 2017, after the December 2016 decision by the EU Heads of State or Government. In this context, the EU acknowledged the European aspirations of Ukraine.

The EU recognised the substantial progress made by Ukraine in its reform process and agreed on the need to further accelerate these efforts. The two sides agreed on the importance of accelerating and reinforcing reform efforts, in particular on the judiciary

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(including reforming the High Council of Justice and the independent recruitment of judges with integrity) and in the fight against corruption, ensuring strong and independent anti-corruption institutions. They also welcomed the renewed commitment of Ukraine to fight the influence of vested interests (“de-oligarchisation”). In this regard, both sides underlined the need to further strengthen media pluralism in Ukraine. The EU also reaffirmed its continued substantial support for Ukraine, and its link to the effective implementation of reforms and policy measures.

On 8 December, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy/Vice- President of the European Commission, Josep Borrell, and EU Commissioner for Neighbourhood and Enlargement, Olivér Várhelyi, held a conference call with the Prime Minister of Ukraine, Denys Shmyhal. Ukraine’s Vice Prime Minister for European and Euro- Atlantic Integration, Olga Stefanishyna, also participated in the call. Both sides discussed EU-Ukraine cooperation, the implementation of the Association Agreement and continuing reform efforts in Ukraine.

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DEVELOPMENT COOPERATION AND AFRICA

Political agreement was reached at the end of 2020 on the future Neighbourhood, Development and International Cooperation Instrument (NDICI), which will streamline and simplify EU external action financing instruments for international and development cooperation, crisis response and peace-building actions in partner countries. The new policy-driven instrument, with a budget of over €70 billion, is expected to be adopted in the first half of 2021. Ireland has engaged in the development of NDICI in terms of the priorities as set out in the Government’s international development policy, A Better World. Almost a quarter of Ireland’s Official Development Assistance (ODA) goes through EU institutions.

The “Team Europe” global response to COVID-19, was first endorsed in April 2020 and gained momentum during the year. This is the collective approach by the EU, Member States, European Investment Bank (EIB) and European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) to provide a fast response to the pandemic, supporting health systems and helping to alleviate the socio-economic impact of COVID-19 in fragile and vulnerable countries. The Team Europe package stood at more than €38 billion by early November – with €150 million contributed by Ireland. “Team Europe” has become the preferred approach to improve the collective development impact and visibility of the EU globally. Work began on Team Europe Initiatives, which are flagship projects of transformative effect in partner countries and these will start to be implemented in the new programming cycle beginning in 2021.

Discussions between the EU and Africa, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) on a successor to the Cotonou Partnership Agreement (CPA) continued in the second half of 2020. The CPA aims to enhance the economic, social and cultural development of the ACP States, based on three pillars: (i) political, (ii) economic and trade cooperation, and (iii) development cooperation. Signed in 2000 for a period of 20 years, the Agreement unites more than one hundred countries (EU member states + 79 ACP countries) and represents over 1.5 billion people.

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There was some progress towards the end of the year with the proposed new agreement endorsed by the Chief Negotiators from the EU and ACP and arrangements were made for a transitional arrangement to cover to November 2021.

Discussions took place also on the successor to the Africa, Caribbean and Pacific Investment Facility (ACP IF), a financial instrument set up to promote growth in the private sector in 79 countries located in Sub-Saharan Africa, the Caribbean and the Pacific. Following a short extension into 2021, reflows from the 11th European Development Funds will be transferred to the EU budget under the new streamlined Neighbourhood, Development and International Cooperation Instrument (NDICI) and implemented by the European Investment Bank under the steer of the European Commission. The aim is to maximise the development impact of the funds.

Support to Syrian Refugees in Turkey: The full amount of €6 billion allocated by the EU to the Facility for Refugees in Turkey, which was set up as part of the EU-Turkey deal agreed in March 2016, had been committed to programming by end-2019 (with over €4 billion disbursed by end-2020). In order to ensure continued vital support, the European Parliament approved an additional €485 million from EU budget resources in July 2020 to permit the extension of two long-standing humanitarian programmes until the end of 2021: the Emergency Social Safety Net (ESSN) programme, which provides over 1.7 million refugees with monthly cash assistance and the Conditional Cash Transfers for Education (CCTE) programme which provides support to families whose children attend school regularly. While no decisions have yet been taken on the precise modalities for support in the longer term, the New Pact on Migration and Asylum presented by the Commission in September 2020 notes that: “[t]he Facility for Refugees in Turkey continues to respond to essential needs of millions of refugees, and continued and sustained EU funding in some form will be essential”.

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MIDDLE EAST & NORTH AFRICA

Algeria

An EU-Algeria Association Council meeting took place on 7 December. Within the framework of the 2017 Association Agreement, the two parties had an exchange on issues in their relations such as governance, economic cooperation and trade, environment, energy and migration. They also discussed how to strengthen stability in the region, including the Libyan and Malian crises, the Middle East Peace Process and the Western Sahara issue.

Iran

In September the Council discussed the US attempt to reinstate UN sanctions under the “snapback” procedure. All parties agreed this did not apply. The High Representative (HRVP) also emphasised the EU’s concern in relation to human rights in Iran.

Libya

The situation in Libya was discussed at the Foreign Affairs Council on 13 July, 21 September and 19 November. On 13 July the role of Turkey in the context of the Libyan conflict was discussed, as was the role of Operation IRINI in supporting implementation of the UN arms embargo on Libya. On 21 September, the Council adopted new sanctions targeting two people and three entities undermining the peace and security of Libya, violating the arms embargo or committing human rights abuses. At a video conference of Foreign Affairs Ministers on 19 November, HRVP Borrell briefed Ministers on the situation in Libya, where the ceasefire of 23 October was welcomed as an encouraging step.

On 15 October, the EU Council imposed sanctions on one person engaged in and providing support for acts that threaten the peace, security or stability of Libya, including through violations of the UN arms embargo. With this new designation, the EU has now imposed a travel ban on 16 listed individuals and an asset freeze on 20 persons and 19 entities under the Libya sanctions regime.

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Lebanon

In August, the Foreign Affairs Council (FAC) discussed the situation in Lebanon in the wake of the Beirut port explosion on 4 August. Ministers were updated on EU humanitarian support and discussed the situation including the need for structural reforms, the important role to be played by civil society and the need for the rapid formation of a new government.

Middle East Peace Process

At the 19 November FAC, Ministers had an exchange of views with the Palestinian Foreign Minister, Riad Malki, on the situation in Palestine, the Middle East Peace Process, and on bilateral relations. Ministers welcomed in particular the recent decision of the Palestinian Authority to resume cooperation and dialogue with Israel, reiterated European support for a negotiated two-state solution, and discussed how the EU can contribute to create better conditions for the resumption of negotiations between the Israelis and the Palestinians.

Southern Neighbourhood

At the 21 September FAC, Ministers discussed the overall partnership between the EU and the Southern Neighbourhood and how it should be framed in the future. European Council Conclusions were agreed on 16 October, noting the 25th anniversary of the Barcelona Process and committing to hold a discussion on the partnership. The European Council held a strategic discussion on the Southern Neighbourhood on 10-11 December, agreeing that work would be guided by the Strategic Agenda 2019-2024, the key principles of the EU's neighbourhood policy and a new agenda for the Mediterranean to be based on shared priorities.

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LATIN AMERICA AND THE CARIBBEAN

Venezuela

On 7 December 2020, the EU issued a declaration on the elections in Venezuela of 6 December 2020. The statement noted that the elections failed to comply with minimum international standards to be considered credible and the electoral process was not recognised as inclusive or transparent. The situation in Venezuela was also discussed at the December Foreign Affairs Council, where the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice President of the European Commission (HRVP) stressed that the EU, Latin American partners in the International Contact Group on Venezuela and other stakeholders should come together to help Venezuelans to try to find a democratic and peaceful solution.

EU- Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) Informal Ministerial Meeting

On 14 December 2020, EU and LAC foreign ministers met in an informal Ministerial Meeting via videoconference. The meeting was hosted by the Foreign Minister of Germany, Heiko Maas, for the rotating Presidency of the Council of the EU, and chaired by the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice President of the European Commission (HRVP) Josep Borrell Fontelles in Berlin. 48 Foreign Ministers participated and discussed Immediate COVID-19 Response, Green Partnership, and Digital Alliance. Minister for Foreign Affairs, Simon Coveney T.D. outlined Ireland’s commitment to the LAC region and called for an equitable recovery to the pandemic. Ministers affirmed the intention to step up high-level bi-regional political dialogue and agreed to work towards a bi-regional summit.

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ASIA – PACIFIC

China

The Council of the EU adopted Conclusions on Hong Kong on 28 July 2020, expressing grave concern over the national security legislation for Hong Kong adopted by the China’s National People’s Congress on 30 June 2020. The Conclusions restate the EU's support for Hong Kong’s high degree of autonomy under the ‘One Country, Two Systems’ principle, and its solidarity with the people of Hong Kong, whilst setting out a coordinated response package of measures in various fields. These include: asylum, migration, visa and residence policy; exports of specific sensitive equipment and technologies for end use in Hong Kong; scholarships and academic exchanges involving Hong Kong students and universities; support to civil society; and the operation of member states’ extradition arrangements and other relevant agreements with Hong Kong. In line with these Council Conclusions, the Irish Government agreed on 13 October 2020 to suspend its extradition agreement with Hong Kong.

The EU-China Leader’s Meeting took place virtually on 14 September 2020, attended by Chinese President Xi Jinping, along with EC President Charles Michel, Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and German Chancellor Angela Merkel for the Council Presidency. The meeting provided an opportunity to follow-up on discussions held at the EU-China Summit on 22 June 2020, and covered trade and investment, climate change and biodiversity, the response to COVID-19, as well as international affairs and other human rights concerns.

India

The 15th EU-India Summit took place virtually on 15 July 2020 attended by Prime Minister Modi and Foreign Minister Jaishankar along with EC President Charles Michel and Commission President von der Leyen. The Summit adopted a Joint Statement and endorsed an EU-India Roadmap for Action to 2025, among other documents. The Summit agreed to further develop EU-India trade and investment relations and to establish a regular High Level Dialogue at Ministerial level to enhance conditions for traders and

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investors. The Summit discussed global cooperation and solidarity in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.

EU- Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Foreign Ministers’ Meeting

The EU-ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (AEMM) was held virtually on 01 December 2020. Ireland was represented by Minister of State Byrne. At the meeting, the EU relationship with ASEAN was elevated to the level of Strategic Partnership. This will provide greater opportunities for engagement and cooperation with ASEAN leaders, including on issues of regional security, trade and connectivity.

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APPENDIX European Commission Proposals published from July to December 2020 which fell under the remit of DFA

COM Number Title Published

Proposal for a COUNCIL DECISION on the position to be taken on behalf of the European Union in the Association Committee meeting in trade configuration COM(20) 357 established by the Association Agreement between the European Union and the 05/08/2020 European Atomic Energy Community and their Member States, of the one part, and Georgia, of the other, concerning the update of Annex XIII (Approximation of customs legislation) to the Agreement Proposal for a COUNCIL DECISION on the position to be adopted, on behalf of COM(20) 366 the European Union, within the EEA Joint Committee concerning an amendment 13/08/2020 to Protocol 31 to the EEA Agreement, on cooperation in specific fields outside the four freedoms (Budget Line 04 03 01 03 – Social Security) Proposal for a COUNCIL DECISION on the position to be adopted, on behalf of COM(20) 367 the European Union, within the EEA Joint Committee concerning an amendment 13/08/2020 to Protocol 31 to the EEA Agreement, on cooperation in specific fields outside the four freedoms (Budget line 12.02.01 - Financial services) Proposal for a COUNCIL DECISION on the position to be adopted, on behalf of the European Union, within the EEA Joint Committee concerning an amendment COM(20) 368 to Protocol 31 to the EEA Agreement, on cooperation in specific fields outside 13/08/2020 the four freedoms (Budget Line 02.03.01 Internal Market and Budget line 02.03.04 Internal Market Governance Tools) Proposal for a COUNCIL DECISION on the position to be adopted, on behalf of COM(20) 369 the European Union, within the EEA Joint Committee concerning an amendment 13/08/2020 to Protocol 31 to the EEA Agreement, on cooperation in specific fields outside the four freedoms (Budget Line 33.02.03.01 – Company Law) Proposal for a COUNCIL DECISION on the position to be adopted, on behalf of the European Union, within the EEA Joint Committee concerning an amendment COM(20) 370 to Protocol 31 to the EEA Agreement, on cooperation in specific fields outside 13/08/2020 the four freedoms (Budget line 02 04 77 03 - Preparatory action for defence research) Proposal for a COUNCIL DECISION on the position to be taken on behalf of the European Union in the ACP-EU Committee of Ambassadors, with regard to COM(20) 432 amending Decision No 3/2019 of the ACP-EU Committee of Ambassadors of 17 26/08/2020 December 2019 to adopt transitional measures pursuant to Article 95(4) of the ACP-EU Partnership Agreement [2020/2] Proposal for a COUNCIL DECISION concerning the allocation of funds COM(20) 477 decommitted from projects under the 10th European Development Fund for the 03/09/2020 purpose of replenishing the African Peace Facility Proposal for a COUNCIL DECISION concerning the commitment of the funds stemming from reflows under the ACP Investment Facility from operations COM(20) 484 under the 9th, 10th and 11th European Development Funds, the balances from 07/09/2020 the 10th EDF or from previous EDFs, and the funds decommitted from projects under the 10th EDF or from previous EDFs Proposal for a COUNCIL DECISION on the position to be taken on behalf of the European Union in the Partnership Committee established by the Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement between the European COM(20) 584 Union and the European Atomic Energy Community and their Member States, 24/09/2020 of the one part, and the Republic of Armenia, of the other part, as regards the amendment of the list of individuals to serve as arbitrators in dispute- settlement proceedings

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European Commission Proposals published from July to December 2020 which fell under the remit of DFA

Proposal for a DECISION OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND OF THE COUNCIL Com(20) 622 empowering France to negotiate an agreement supplementing its existing 27/07/2020 bilateral Treaty with the United Kingdom concerning the construction and operation by private concessionaires of a Channel Fixed Link Proposal for a COUNCIL DECISION on the position to be taken on behalf of the European Union in the Joint Consultative Working Group established by the COM(20) 636 Agreement on the withdrawal of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and 08/10/2020 Northern Ireland from the European Union and the European Atomic Energy Community as regards the adoption of its rules of procedure Proposal for a COUNCIL DECISION on the financial contributions to be paid by Member States to finance the European Development Fund, including the COM(20) 639 ceiling for 2022, the annual amount for 2021, the first instalment for 2021 and 08/10/2020 an indicative and non-binding forecast for the expected annual amounts of contributions for the years 2023 and 2024 Proposal for a COUNCIL DECISION on the financial contributions to be paid by COM(20) 640 Member States to finance the European Development Fund, including the third 08/10/2020 instalment for 2020 Proposal for a COUNCIL DECISION on the position to be adopted, on behalf of COM(20) 700 the European Union, within the EEA Joint Committee concerning an amendment 12/11/2020 to Annex IV (Energy) to the EEA Agreement [32015R1222 - Guideline on congestion management "CM"] Proposal for a COUNCIL DECISION on the position to be adopted, on behalf of COM(20) 704 the European Union, within the EEA Joint Committee concerning an amendment 12/11/2020 to Annex IV (Energy) to the EEA Agreement [32017R1485 - Guideline on electricity transmission system operation "ETS" - "SOGL"] Proposal for a COUNCIL DECISION on the position to be adopted, on behalf of COM(20) 706 the European Union, within the EEA Joint Committee concerning an amendment 12/11/2020 to Annex IV (Energy) to the EEA Agreement [32016R1719 - Guideline on forward capacity allocation "FCA"] Proposal for a COUNCIL DECISION on the position to be adopted, on behalf of COM(20) 707 the European Union, within the EEA Joint Committee concerning an amendment 12/11/2020 to Annex IV (Energy) to the EEA Agreement [32017R2195 - Guideline on electricity balancing "EB"] Proposal for a COUNCIL DECISION on the position to be taken by the European Union within the Joint Committee established under the Agreement between COM(20) 735 the European Community and its Member States, of the one part, and the Swiss 12/11/2020 Confederation, of the other, on the free movement of persons as regards the amendment of Annex II to that Agreement on the coordination of social security schemes Proposal for a COUNCIL DECISION on the position to be adopted, on behalf of COM(20) 736 the European Union, within the EEA Joint Committee, concerning the 12/11/2020 amendment to Annex VI (Social Security) to the EEA Agreement

Proposal for a COUNCIL DECISION on the position to be taken on behalf of the European Union in the Joint Committee established by the Agreement on the withdrawal of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland from COM(20) 780 the European Union and the European Atomic Energy Community as regards 27/11/2020 the date from which the provisions of Title III of Part Two of the Agreement shall apply to the nationals of Iceland, the Principality of Liechtenstein, the Kingdom of Norway, and the Swiss Confederation

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European Commission Proposals published from July to December 2020 which fell under the remit of DFA

Proposal for a COUNCIL DECISION on the signing, on behalf of the Union, and on provisional application of the Trade and Cooperation Agreement between the European Union and the European Atomic Energy Community, of the one part, COM(20) 855 and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, of the other 26/12/2020 part, and of the Agreement between the European Union and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland concerning security procedures for exchanging and protecting classified information

Proposal for a COUNCIL DECISION on the conclusion, on behalf of the Union, of the Trade and Cooperation Agreement between the European Union and the European Atomic Energy Community, of the one part, and the United Kingdom COM(20) 856 of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, of the other part, and of the Agreement 26/12/2020 between the European Union and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland concerning security procedures for exchanging and protecting classified information

Department of Foreign Affairs European Union Division 22/25 Clare Street, D02 HC42

Tel: + 353 (0) 1 408 2000 @dfatirl www.dfa.ie

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