[pic] | COMMISSION OF THE EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES |

Brussels, 7.3.2007

COM(2007)84 final

Proposal for a

COUNCIL DECISION

on a Community position in the Association Council on the implementation of Article 80 of the Euro-Mediterranean Agreement establishing an association between the European Communities and their Member States, of the one part, and the Republic of Lebanon, of the other part

(presented by the Commission)

EXPLANATORY MEMORANDUM

1. The Euro-Mediterranean Association Agreement with Lebanon forms the legal basis for the bilateral relations between the European Union and Lebanon.

2. The Agreement entered into force on 1 April 2006 and envisages the gradual liberalisation of trade and the establishment of a free trade area over a transitional period not exceeding 12 years from the entry into force of the Agreement. The establishment of this free trade area will contribute to strengthening the integration of the economic, institutional and social systems of the partner countries.

3. The Agreement also provides an appropriate framework for political dialogue and for the promotion of cooperation in economic, social, cultural, financial and monetary matters and in other areas of mutual interest.

4. In its Article 80, the Agreement provides for the setting up of any bodies necessary for its implementation.

5. An institutional structure consisting of a number of sub-committees has been established for the implementation of the agreements with other Euro-Mediterranean partner countries, such as Israel, Morocco, Tunisia and Jordan. The present proposal follows the same scheme and structure.

6. Lebanon is willing to strengthen cooperation in the various fields covered by the Association Agreement. Under the European Neighbourhood Policy, moreover, the aim is for the bilateral relations between the EU and Lebanon to develop into an overall partnership with a coherent approach guaranteed by close and permanent coordination of all the various elements.

7. With this in mind, the European Commission proposes to the Council the establishment of ten sub-committees to assist the Association Council and Committee in the implementation of the Agreement. These sub-committees will consider questions of a technical nature that cannot be handled in full within the framework of the Association Committee.

8. The ten sub-committees will cover: i) human rights, democracy and governance, ii) economic and financial matters, iii) industry, trade, and services iv) internal market, v) social and migration affairs, vi) justice freedom and security, vii) agriculture and fisheries, viii) transport, energy and environment, ix) customs cooperation and taxation and x) research, innovation, information society, education and culture.

9. As regards their organisation, the sub-committees will be chaired by the Commission in accordance with the Council Decision of 25 March 2002. Under that Decision, the "Justice and security" sub-committee will be chaired, insofar as the EU is concerned, in accordance with the same rules as apply to the Association Committee. Where the subject of the discussion does not come under Community competences, a representative of the Council Presidency will chair the Committee and represent the position of the Member States. In such cases, however, the Commission will be fully associated in the preparatory work and in setting the objectives of the meetings of the sub-committees.

10. The objectives of the sub-committees, the subjects covered by each sub-committee, and the implementing procedures are contained in the annexed rules of procedure.

11. The Community and the Republic of Lebanon shall each defray the expenses they incur by reason of their participation in the meetings of the Association Committee and sub-committees, both with regard to staff, travel and subsistence expenditure and to postal and telecommunications expenditure. Other expenditure relating to the organisation of meetings shall be borne by the Party hosting the meetings.

Proposal for a

COUNCIL DECISION

on a Community position in the Association Council on the implementation of Article 80 of the Euro-Mediterranean Agreement establishing an association between the European Communities and their Member States, of the one part, and the Republic of Lebanon, of the other part

THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,

Having regard to the Treaty establishing the European Community, and in particular the second subparagraph of Article 300(2) thereof,

Having regard to the proposal from the Commission,[1]

Whereas:

(1) The Euro-Mediterranean Agreement establishing an Association between the European Communities and their Member States, of the one part, and the Republic of Lebanon, of the other part, was signed on 17 June 2002 and entered into force on 1 April 2006.

(2) Article 80 of that Agreement states that the Association Council may decide to set up any working group or body necessary for the implementation of the Agreement,

HAS DECIDED AS FOLLOWS:

Sole Article

The position to be adopted by the Community in the Association Council established by the Euro-Mediterranean Agreement concluded between the European Communities and their Member States, of the one part, and the Republic of Lebanon, of the other part, on the implementation of Article 80 of the Agreement shall be based on the draft Decision of the Association Council annexed to this Decision.

The sub-committees to be set up shall be chaired by a European Commission representative on behalf of the European Community and its Member States. The Member States shall be informed of and may participate in the meetings of the sub-committees in question.

A representative of the Council Presidency shall express the EU's position on matters relating to Titles V and VI of the Treaty on European Union. The Commission shall be fully involved in the preparatory work and in setting the objectives of sub-committee meetings.

Done at Brussels,

For the Council

The President

Draft

DECISION OF THE EU/LEBANON ASSOCIATION COUNCIL

Setting up subcommittees of the Association Committee

THE EU/LEBANON ASSOCIATION COUNCIL,

Having regard to the Euro-Mediterranean Agreement establishing an Association between the European Communities and their Member States, of the one part, and the Republic of Lebanon of the other part,

Whereas:

(1) A free trade area is to be established between the EU and the Republic of Lebanon by 1 March 2015 at the latest,

(2) The EU's relations with the southern Mediterranean countries are becoming increasingly complex as a result of the implementation of the Euro-Mediterranean Agreements and the continuation of the Euro-Mediterranean partnership,

(3) Subcommittees of the associations committees of the other associated countries have been set up in order to monitor the implementation of the partnership priorities and the approximation of legislation,

(4) There is a need to integrate the environment in sectoral policies, the objective being sustainable development,

(5) Article 80 of the Agreement provides for the setting up of the working groups or bodies necessary for the implementation of the Agreement,

HAS DECIDED AS FOLLOWS:

Sole Article

The subcommittees of the EU/Lebanon Association Committee listed in Annex 1 are hereby set up and the rules of procedure of the Working Group and those subcommittees in Annex 2 are hereby adopted.

They shall work under the authority of the Association Committee, to which they shall report after each of their meetings. The subcommittees shall have no decision-making power.

The Association Committee shall take any other action needed to ensure that they operate properly and inform the Association Council accordingly.

The Association Council may decide to set up further subcommittees or to abolish existing subcommittees.

This Decision shall enter into force on the day of its adoption.

Done at

For the Association Council

ANNEX I

EU-LEBANON ASSOCIATION AGREEMENT

SUB-COMMITTEES ATTACHED TO THE ASSOCIATION COMMITTEE

(1) Human rights, democracy and governance

(2) Economic and financial matters

(3) Industry, trade and services

(4) Internal market

(5) Social and migration affairs

(6) Justice, freedom and security

(7) Agriculture and fisheries

(8) Transport, energy, and environment

(9) Customs cooperation and taxation

(10) Research, innovation, information society, education and culture

ANNEX II

Rules of procedure

EU-Lebanon Sub-Committee No 1

Human rights, democracy and governance

1. Composition and chair

The sub-committee shall be composed of representatives of the European Community and its Member States and representatives of the Government of Lebanon. It shall be chaired alternately by the two parties. Each party shall appoint its own chairperson.

2. Role

The sub-committee shall be a forum for discussion, consultation and assessment, and shall work under the authority and guidance of the Association Committee, to which it shall report after each meeting. The sub-committee does not have any decision-making power but may submit proposals to the Association Committee.

3. Subject matter

The sub-committee shall discuss the implementation of the Association Agreement and the related European Neighbourhood Policy Action Plan in the areas listed below, among others, and shall assess progress on the objectives and actions identified and agreed upon in the Action Plan. Where relevant, cooperation in public administration matters shall be discussed. The sub-committee shall examine any problems that may arise in the areas listed below and shall suggest possible steps to be undertaken.

3(a) Strengthening democracy, governance and the rule of law, including the independence of the judiciary and access to justice

3(b) Ratifying and implementing the principal international conventions on human rights and fundamental freedoms and the protocols to those conventions. Implementation of reporting obligations and review of reservations.

3(c) National administrative and institutional capacity

3(d) Cooperation on foreign policy and crisis management issues, including in international organisations

3(e) Regional cooperation (including coordination of regional issues arising from other sub-committees)

The above list is not exhaustive and other subjects may be added by the Association Committee.

The sub-committee may discuss matters relating to one, several or all of the above areas.

4. Secretariat

A representative of the European Commission and a representative of the Government of Lebanon shall act jointly as permanent secretaries of the sub-committee.

All communications concerning the sub-committee shall be forwarded to the secretaries. The secretaries shall be responsible for the preparation of the sub-committee meetings, including dates and agendas.

5. Meetings

The sub-committee shall meet whenever circumstances require, and in principle at least once a year. A meeting may be convened at the request of the chairperson of either party, channelled through their secretary, who shall pass on the request to the other party. Upon receipt of a request for a sub-committee meeting, the secretary of the other party shall reply within fifteen working days. Where possible, and with the agreement of both parties, a number of sub-committee meetings may be grouped over several days.

In cases of particular urgency, sub-committee meetings may be convened at shorter notice, subject to the agreement of both parties. All requests to convene meetings shall be in writing.

Each meeting of the sub-committee shall be held at a time and place agreed by both parties.

The meetings shall be convened by the secretary in charge, in agreement with the chair. Before each meeting, the chair shall be informed of the intended composition of the delegation of each party.

If both parties agree, the sub-committee may invite experts to its meetings to provide the specific information desired.

6. Agenda of the meetings

All requests for items to be included in the sub-committee agenda shall be forwarded to the secretaries.

A provisional agenda shall be drawn up by the chair for each meeting. It shall be forwarded by the secretary in charge to his or her counterpart not later than ten days before the beginning of the meeting.

The provisional agenda shall include those items in respect of which requests for inclusion in the agenda have been received by the secretaries not later than fifteen days before the beginning of the meeting. Supporting documentation shall be supplied to both parties at least seven days ahead of the meeting. To take account of urgent matters, these time limits may be shortened provided both parties agree.

The agenda shall be adopted by the sub-committee at the beginning of each meeting.

7. Minutes

Minutes shall be taken and agreed by both secretaries after each meeting. A copy of the minutes, including the sub-committee's proposals and recommendations, shall be forwarded by the secretaries of the sub-committee to the secretaries and chair of the Association Committee.

8. Publicity

Unless otherwise decided, the meetings of the sub-committee shall not be public and the relevant minutes shall be confidential.

Rules of procedure

EU-Lebanon Sub-Committee No 2

Economic and financial matters

1. Composition and chair

The sub-committee shall be composed of representatives of the European Community and its Member States and representatives of the Government of Lebanon. It shall be chaired alternately by the two parties. Each side shall appoint its own chairperson.

2. Role

The sub-committee shall be a forum for discussion, consultation and assessment, and shall work under the authority and guidance of the Association Committee, to which it shall report after each meeting. The sub-committee does not have any decision-making power but may submit proposals to the Association Committee.

3. Subject matter

The sub-committee shall discuss the implementation of the Association Agreement and the related European Neighbourhood Policy Action Plan in the areas listed below, among others, and shall assess progress on the objectives and actions identified and agreed upon in the Action Plan. Where relevant, cooperation in public administration matters shall be discussed. The sub-committee shall examine any problems that may arise in the areas listed below and shall suggest possible steps to be undertaken.

3(a) Macro-economic policies

3(b) Structural economic policies

3(c) Financial services (macro-economic aspects) and capital markets

3(d) Capital movement and payments

3(e) Public finance management, including public internal financial control

3(f) Pensions and social security (economic aspects)

3(g) Statistics

The above list is not exhaustive and other subjects may be added by the Association Committee.

The sub-committee may discuss matters relating to one, several or all of the above areas.

4. Secretariat

A representative of the European Commission and a representative of the Government of Lebanon shall act jointly as permanent secretaries of the sub-committee.

All communications concerning the sub-committee shall be forwarded to the secretaries. The secretaries shall be responsible for the preparation of the sub-committee meetings, including dates and agendas.

5. Meetings

The sub-committee shall meet whenever circumstances require, and in principle at least once a year. A meeting may be convened at the request of the chairperson of either party, channelled through their secretary, who shall pass on the request to the other party. Upon receipt of a request for a sub-committee meeting, the secretary of the other party shall reply within fifteen working days. Where possible, and with the agreement of both parties, a number of sub-committee meetings may be grouped over several days.

In cases of particular urgency, sub-committee meetings may be convened at shorter notice subject to the agreement of both parties. All requests to convene meetings shall be in writing.

Each meeting of the sub-committee shall be held at a time and place agreed by both parties.

The meetings shall be convened by the secretary in charge in agreement with the chair. Before each meeting, the chair shall be informed of the intended composition of the delegation of each party.

If both parties agree, the sub-committee may invite experts to its meetings to provide the specific information desired.

6. Agenda of the meetings

All requests for items to be included in the sub-committee agenda shall be forwarded to the secretaries.

A provisional agenda shall be drawn up by the chair for each meeting. It shall be forwarded by the secretary in charge to his or her counterpart not later than ten days before the beginning of the meeting.

The provisional agenda shall include those items in respect of which requests for inclusion in the agenda have been received by the secretaries not later than fifteen days before the beginning of the meeting. Supporting documentation shall be supplied to both parties at least seven days ahead of the meeting. To take account of urgent matters, these time limits may be shortened provided both parties agree.

The agenda shall be adopted by the sub-committee at the beginning of each meeting.

7. Minutes

Minutes shall be taken and agreed by both secretaries after each meeting. A copy of the minutes, including the sub-committee's proposals and recommendations, shall be forwarded by the secretaries of the sub-committee to the secretaries and chair of the Association Committee.

8. Publicity

Unless otherwise decided, the meetings of the sub-committee shall not be public and the relevant minutes shall be confidential.

Rules of procedures

EU-Lebanon Sub-Committee No 3

Industry, trade and services

1. Composition and chair

The sub-committee shall be composed of representatives of the European Community and its Member States and representatives of the Government of Lebanon. It shall be chaired alternately by the two parties. Each side shall appoint its own chairperson.

2. Role

The sub-committee shall be a forum for discussion, consultation and assessment, and shall work under the authority and guidance of the Association Committee, to which it shall report after each meeting. The sub-committee does not have any decision-making power but may submit proposals to the Association Committee.

3. Subject matter

The sub-committee shall discuss the implementation of the Association Agreement and the related European Neighbourhood Policy Action Plan in the areas listed below, among others, and shall assess progress on the objectives and actions identified and agreed upon in the Action Plan . Where relevant, cooperation in public administration matters shall be discussed. The sub-committee shall examine any problems that may arise in the areas listed below and shall suggest possible steps to be undertaken.

3(a) Enterprise policy and industrial cooperation

3(b) Implementation of the trade provisions of the Association Agreement and ENP Action Plan

3(c) Bilateral trade issues

3(d) Services and investment

3(e) Preparation of trade agreements on technical regulations, standards and conformity assessment

3(f) Cooperation on e-commerce issues

3(g) Tourism

The above list is not exhaustive and other subjects may be added by the Association Committee.

The sub-committee may discuss matters relating to one, several or all of the above areas.

4. Secretariat

A representative of the European Commission and a representative of the Government of Lebanon shall act jointly as permanent secretaries of the sub-committee.

All communications concerning the sub-committee shall be forwarded to the secretaries. The secretaries shall be responsible for the preparation of the sub-committee meetings, including dates and agendas.

5. Meetings

The sub-committee shall meet whenever circumstances require, and in principle at least once a year. A meeting may be convened at the request of the chairperson of either party, channelled through their secretary, who shall pass on the request to the other party. Upon receipt of a request for a sub-committee meeting, the secretary of the other party shall reply within fifteen working days. Where possible, and with the agreement of both parties, a number of sub-committee meetings may be grouped over several days.

In cases of particular urgency, sub-committee meetings may be convened at shorter notice subject to the agreement of both parties. All requests to convene meetings shall be in writing.

Each meeting of the sub-committee shall be held at a time and place agreed by both parties.

The meetings shall be convened by the secretary in charge in agreement with the chair. Before each meeting, the chair shall be informed of the intended composition of the delegation of each party.

If both parties agree, the sub-committee may invite experts to its meetings to provide the specific information desired.

6. Agenda of the meetings

All requests for items to be included in the sub-committee agenda shall be forwarded to the secretaries.

A provisional agenda shall be drawn up by the chair for each meeting. It shall be forwarded by the secretary in charge to his or her counterpart not later than ten days before the beginning of the meeting.

The provisional agenda shall include those items in respect of which requests for inclusion in the agenda have been received by the secretaries not later than fifteen days before the beginning of the meeting. Supporting documentation shall be supplied to both parties at least seven days ahead of the meeting. To take account of urgent matters, these time limits may be shortened provided both parties agree.

The agenda shall be adopted by the sub-committee at the beginning of each meeting.

7. Minutes

Minutes shall be taken and agreed by both secretaries after each meeting. A copy of the minutes, including the sub-committee's proposals and recommendations, shall be forwarded by the secretaries of the sub-committee to the secretaries and chair of the Association Committee.

8. Publicity

Unless otherwise decided, the meetings of the sub-committee shall not be public and the relevant minutes shall be confidential.

Rules of procedure

EU-Lebanon Sub-Committee No 4

Internal market

1. Composition and chair

The sub-committee shall be composed of representatives of the European Community and its Member States and representatives of the Government of Lebanon. It shall be chaired alternately by the two parties. Each side shall appoint its own chairperson.

2. Role

The sub-committee shall be a forum for discussion, consultation and assessment, and shall work under the authority and guidance of the Association Committee, to which it shall report after each meeting. The sub-committee does not have any decision-making power but may submit proposals to the Association Committee.

3. Subject matter

The sub-committee shall discuss the implementation of the Association Agreement and the related European Neighbourhood Policy Action Plan in the areas listed below, among others, and shall assess progress on the objectives and actions identified and agreed upon in the Action Plan. Where relevant, cooperation in public administration matters shall be discussed. The sub-committee shall examine any problems that may arise in the areas listed below and shall suggest possible steps to be undertaken.

3(a) Legislative and administrative cooperation on technical regulations, standards and conformity assessment

3(b) Competition policy

3(c) Public procurement

3(d) Intellectual, industrial and commercial property rights

3(e) Services (policy and regulatory issues)

3(f) Right of establishment, company law

The above list is not exhaustive and other subjects may be added by the Association Committee.

The sub-committee may discuss matters relating to one, several or all of the above areas.

4. Secretariat

A representative of the European Commission and a representative of the Government of Lebanon shall act jointly as permanent secretaries of the sub-committee.

All communications concerning the sub-committee shall be forwarded to the secretaries. The secretaries shall be responsible for the preparation of the sub-committee meetings, including dates and agendas.

5. Meetings

The sub-committee shall meet whenever circumstances require, and in principle at least once a year. A meeting may be convened at the request of the chairperson of either party, channelled through their secretary, who shall pass on the request to the other party. Upon receipt of a request for a sub-committee meeting, the secretary of the other party shall reply within fifteen working days. Where possible, and with the agreement of both parties, a number of sub-committee meetings may be grouped over several days.

In cases of particular urgency, sub-committee meetings may be convened at shorter notice subject to the agreement of both parties. All requests to convene meetings shall be in writing.

Each meeting of the sub-committee shall be held at a time and place agreed by both parties.

The meetings shall be convened by the secretary in charge in agreement with the chair. Before each meeting, the chair shall be informed of the intended composition of the delegation of each party.

If both parties agree, the sub-committee may invite experts to its meetings to provide the specific information desired.

6. Agenda of the meetings

All requests for items to be included in the sub-committee agenda shall be forwarded to the secretaries.

A provisional agenda shall be drawn up by the chair for each meeting. It shall be forwarded by the secretary in charge to his or her counterpart not later than ten days before the beginning of the meeting.

The provisional agenda shall include those items in respect of which requests for inclusion in the agenda have been received by the secretaries not later than fifteen days before the beginning of the meeting. Supporting documentation shall be supplied to both parties at least seven days ahead of the meeting. To take account of urgent matters, these time limits may be shortened provided both parties agree.

The agenda shall be adopted by the sub-committee at the beginning of each meeting.

7. Minutes

Minutes shall be taken and agreed by both secretaries after each meeting. A copy of the minutes, including the sub-committee's proposals and recommendations, shall be forwarded by the secretaries of the sub-committee to the secretaries and chair of the Association Committee.

8. Publicity

Unless otherwise decided, the meetings of the sub-committee shall not be public and the relevant minutes shall be confidential.

Rules of procedure

EU-Lebanon Sub-Committee No 5

Social and migration policies

1. Composition and chair

The sub-committee shall be composed of representatives of the European Community and its Member States and representatives of the Government of Lebanon. It shall be chaired alternately by the two parties. Each side shall appoint its own chairperson .

2. Role

The sub-committee shall be a forum for discussion, consultation and assessment, and shall work under the authority and guidance of the Association Committee, to which it shall report after each meeting. The sub-committee does not have any decision-making power but may submit proposals to the Association Committee.

3. Subject matter

The sub-committee shall discuss the implementation of the Association Agreement and the related European Neighbourhood Policy Action Plan in the areas listed below, among others, and shall assess progress on the objectives and actions identified and agreed upon in the Action Plan. Where relevant, cooperation in public administration matters shall be discussed. The sub-committee shall examine any problems that may arise in the areas listed below and shall suggest possible steps to be undertaken.

3(a) Fight against discrimination, including disability issues

3(b) Public health

3(c) Equal opportunities

3(d) Movement of workers

3(e) Migration policies

3(f) Labour policy

3(g) Social protection

The above list is not exhaustive and other subjects may be added by the Association Committee.

The sub-committee may discuss matters relating to one, several or all of the above areas.

4. Secretariat

A representative of the European Commission and a representative of the Government of Lebanon shall act jointly as permanent secretaries of the sub-committee.

All communications concerning the sub-committee shall be forwarded to the secretaries. The secretaries shall be responsible for the preparation of the sub-committee meetings, including dates and agendas.

5. Meetings

The sub-committee shall meet whenever circumstances require, and in principle at least once a year. A meeting may be convened at the request of the chairperson of either party, channelled through their secretary, who shall pass on the request to the other party. Upon receipt of a request for a sub-committee meeting, the secretary of the other party shall reply within fifteen working days. Where possible, and with the agreement of both parties, a number of sub-committee meetings may be grouped over several days.

In cases of particular urgency, sub-committee meetings may be convened at shorter notice subject to the agreement of both parties. All requests to convene meetings shall be in writing.

Each meeting of the sub-committee shall be held at a time and place agreed by both parties.

The meetings shall be convened by the secretary in charge in agreement with the chair. Before each meeting, the chair shall be informed of the intended composition of the delegation of each party.

If both parties agree, the sub-committee may invite experts to its meetings to provide the specific information desired.

6. Agenda of the meetings

All requests for items to be included in the sub-committee agenda shall be forwarded to the secretaries.

A provisional agenda shall be drawn up by the chair for each meeting. It shall be forwarded by the secretary in charge to his or her counterpart not later than ten days before the beginning of the meeting.

The provisional agenda shall include those items in respect of which requests for inclusion in the agenda have been received by the secretaries not later than fifteen days before the beginning of the meeting. Supporting documentation shall be supplied to both parties at least seven days ahead of the meeting. To take account of urgent matters, these time limits may be shortened provided both parties agree.

The agenda shall be adopted by the sub-committee at the beginning of each meeting.

7. Minutes

Minutes shall be taken and agreed by both secretaries after each meeting. A copy of the minutes, including the sub-committee's proposals and recommendations, shall be forwarded by the secretaries of the sub-committee to the secretaries and chair of the Association Committee.

8. Publicity

Unless otherwise decided, the meetings of the sub-committee shall not be public and the relevant minutes shall be confidential.

Rules of procedure

EU-Lebanon Sub-Committee No 6

Justice freedom and security

1. Composition and chair

The sub-committee shall be composed of representatives of the European Community and its Member States and representatives of the Government of Lebanon. It shall be chaired alternately by the two parties. Each side shall appoint its own chairperson.

2. Role

The sub-committee shall be a forum for discussion, consultation and assessment, and shall work under the authority and guidance of the Association Committee, to which it shall report after each meeting. The sub-committee does not have any decision-making power but may submit proposals to the Association Committee.

3. Subject matter

The sub-committee shall discuss the implementation of the Association Agreement and the related European Neighbourhood Policy Action Plan in the areas listed below, among others, and shall assess progress on the objectives and actions identified and agreed upon in the Action Plan. Where relevant, cooperation in public administration matters shall be discussed. The sub-committee shall examine any problems that may arise in the areas listed below and shall suggest possible steps to be undertaken.

3(a) Migration issues

3(b) Asylum

3(c) Specific actions to combat terrorism in the field of justice, liberty and security

3(d) Fight against organised crime, including trafficking of human beings

3(e) Drugs

3(f) Money laundering, financial and economic crime

3(g) Police and judicial cooperation

The above list is not exhaustive and other subjects may be added by the Association Committee.

The sub-committee may discuss matters relating to one, several or all of the above areas.

4. Secretariat

A representative of the European Commission and a representative of the Government of Lebanon shall act jointly as permanent secretaries of the sub-committee.

All communications concerning the sub-committee shall be forwarded to the secretaries. The secretaries shall be responsible for the preparation of the sub-committee meetings, including dates and agendas.

5. Meetings

The sub-committee shall meet whenever circumstances require, and in principle at least once a year. A meeting may be convened at the request of the chairperson of either party, channelled through their secretary, who shall pass on the request to the other party. Upon receipt of a request for a sub-committee meeting, the secretary of the other party shall reply within fifteen working days. Where possible, and with the agreement of both parties, a number of sub-committee meetings may be grouped over several days.

In cases of particular urgency, sub-committee meetings may be convened at shorter notice subject to the agreement of both parties. All requests to convene meetings shall be in writing.

Each meeting of the sub-committee shall be held at a time and place agreed by both parties.

The meetings shall be convened by the secretary in charge in agreement with the chair. Before each meeting, the chair shall be informed of the intended composition of the delegation of each party.

If both parties agree, the sub-committee may invite experts to its meetings to provide the specific information desired.

6. Agenda of the meetings

All requests for items to be included in the sub-committee agenda shall be forwarded to the secretaries.

A provisional agenda shall be drawn up by the chair for each meeting. It shall be forwarded by the secretary in charge to his or her counterpart not later than ten days before the beginning of the meeting.

The provisional agenda shall include those items in respect of which requests for inclusion in the agenda have been received by the secretaries not later than fifteen days before the beginning of the meeting. Supporting documentation shall be supplied to both parties at least seven days ahead of the meeting. To take account of urgent matters, these time limits may be shortened provided both parties agree.

The agenda shall be adopted by the sub-committee at the beginning of each meeting.

7. Minutes

Minutes shall be taken and agreed by both secretaries after each meeting. A copy of the minutes, including the sub-committee's proposals and recommendations, shall be forwarded by the secretaries of the sub-committee to the secretaries and chair of the Association Committee.

8. Publicity

Unless otherwise decided, the meetings of the sub-committee shall not be public and the relevant minutes shall be confidential.

Rules of procedure

EU-Lebanon Sub-Committee No 7

Agriculture and fisheries

1. Composition and chair

The sub-committee shall be composed of representatives of the European Community and its Member States and representatives of the Government of Lebanon. It shall be chaired alternately by the two parties. Each side shall appoint its own chairperson.

2. Role

The sub-committee shall be a forum for discussion, consultation and assessment, and shall work under the authority and guidance of the Association Committee, to which it shall report after each meeting. The sub-committee does not have any decision-making power but may submit proposals to the Association Committee.

3. Subject matter

The sub-committee shall discuss the implementation of the Association Agreement and the related European Neighbourhood Policy Action Plan in the areas listed below, among others, and shall assess progress on the objectives and actions identified and agreed upon in the Action Plan. Where relevant, cooperation in public administration matters shall be discussed. The sub-committee shall examine any problems that may arise in the areas listed below and shall suggest possible steps to be undertaken.

3(a) Agricultural and processed agricultural products, including trade

3(b) Sanitary and phyto-sanitary issues

3(c) Agricultural policies and rural development, regional co-operation

3(d) Fishery products, including trade

The above list is not exhaustive and other subjects may be added by the Association Committee.

The sub-committee may discuss matters relating to one, several or all of the above areas.

4. Secretariat

A representative of the European Commission and a representative of the Government of Lebanon shall act jointly as permanent secretaries of the sub-committee.

All communications concerning the sub-committee shall be forwarded to the secretaries. The secretaries shall be responsible for the preparation of the sub-committee meetings, including dates and agendas.

5. Meetings

The sub-committee shall meet whenever circumstances require, and in principle at least once a year. A meeting may be convened at the request of the chairperson of either party, channelled through their secretary, who shall pass on the request to the other party. Upon receipt of a request for a sub-committee meeting, the secretary of the other party shall reply within fifteen working days. Where possible, and with the agreement of both parties, a number of sub-committee meetings may be grouped over several days.

In cases of particular urgency, sub-committee meetings may be convened at shorter notice subject to the agreement of both parties. All requests to convene meetings shall be in writing.

Each meeting of the sub-committee shall be held at a time and place agreed by both parties.

The meetings shall be convened by the secretary in charge in agreement with the chair. Before each meeting, the chair shall be informed of the intended composition of the delegation of each party.

If both parties agree, the sub-committee may invite experts to its meetings to provide the specific information desired.

6. Agenda of the meetings

All requests for items to be included in the sub-committee agenda shall be forwarded to the secretaries.

A provisional agenda shall be drawn up by the chair for each meeting. It shall be forwarded by the secretary in charge to his or her counterpart not later than ten days before the beginning of the meeting.

The provisional agenda shall include those items in respect of which requests for inclusion in the agenda have been received by the secretaries not later than fifteen days before the beginning of the meeting. Supporting documentation shall be supplied to both parties at least seven days ahead of the meeting. To take account of urgent matters, these time limits may be shortened provided both parties agree.

The agenda shall be adopted by the sub-committee at the beginning of each meeting.

7. Minutes

Minutes shall be taken and agreed by both secretaries after each meeting. A copy of the minutes, including the sub-committee's proposals and recommendations, shall be forwarded by the secretaries of the sub-committee to the secretaries and chair of the Association Committee.

8. Publicity

Unless otherwise decided, the meetings of the sub-committee shall not be public and the relevant minutes shall be confidential.

Rules of procedure

EU-Lebanon Sub-Committee No 8

Transport, energy, and environment

1. Composition and chair

The sub-committee shall be composed of representatives of the European Community and its Member States and representatives of the Government of Lebanon. It shall be chaired alternately by the two parties. Each side shall appoint its own chairperson.

2. Role

The sub-committee shall be a forum for discussion, consultation and assessment, and shall work under the authority and guidance of the Association Committee, to which it shall report after each meeting. The sub-committee does not have any decision-making power but may submit proposals to the Association Committee.

3. Subject matter

The sub-committee shall discuss the implementation of the Association Agreement and the related European Neighbourhood Policy Action Plan in the areas listed below, among others, and shall assess progress on the objectives and actions identified and agreed upon in the Action Plan. Where relevant, cooperation in public administration matters shall be discussed. The sub-committee shall examine any problems that may arise in the areas listed below and shall suggest possible steps to be undertaken.

3(a) Transport

3(b) Energy

3(c) Environment

The above list is not exhaustive and other subjects may be added by the Association Committee.

The sub-committee may discuss matters relating to one, several or all of the above areas.

4. Secretariat

A representative of the European Commission and a representative of the Government of Lebanon shall act jointly as permanent secretaries of the sub-committee.

All communications concerning the sub-committee shall be forwarded to the secretaries. The secretaries shall be responsible for the preparation of the sub-committee meetings, including dates and agendas.

5. Meetings

The sub-committee shall meet whenever circumstances require, and in principle at least once a year. A meeting may be convened at the request of the chairperson of either party, channelled through their secretary, who shall pass on the request to the other party. Upon receipt of a request for a sub-committee meeting, the secretary of the other party shall reply within fifteen working days. Where possible, and with the agreement of both parties, a number of sub-committee meetings may be grouped over several days.

In cases of particular urgency, sub-committee meetings may be convened at shorter notice subject to the agreement of both parties. All requests to convene meetings shall be in writing.

Each meeting of the sub-committee shall be held at a time and place agreed by both parties.

The meetings shall be convened by the secretary in charge in agreement with the chair. Before each meeting, the chair shall be informed of the intended composition of the delegation of each party.

If both parties agree, the sub-committee may invite experts to its meetings to provide the specific information desired.

6. Agenda of the meetings

All requests for items to be included in the sub-committee agenda shall be forwarded to the secretaries.

A provisional agenda shall be drawn up by the chair for each meeting. It shall be forwarded by the secretary in charge to his or her counterpart not later than ten days before the beginning of the meeting.

The provisional agenda shall include those items in respect of which requests for inclusion in the agenda have been received by the secretaries not later than fifteen days before the beginning of the meeting. Supporting documentation shall be supplied to both parties at least seven days ahead of the meeting. To take account of urgent matters, these time limits may be shortened provided both parties agree.

The agenda shall be adopted by the sub-committee at the beginning of each meeting.

7. Minutes

Minutes shall be taken and agreed by both secretaries after each meeting. A copy of the minutes, including the sub-committee's proposals and recommendations, shall be forwarded by the secretaries of the sub-committee to the secretaries and chair of the Association Committee.

8. Publicity

Unless otherwise decided, the meetings of the sub-committee shall not be public and the relevant minutes shall be confidential.

Rules of procedure

EU-Lebanon Sub-Committee No 9

Customs cooperation and taxation

1. Composition and chair

The sub-committee shall be composed of representatives of the European Community and its Member States and representatives of the Government of Lebanon. It shall be chaired alternately by the two parties. Each side shall appoint its own chairperson.

2. Role

The sub-committee shall be a forum for discussion, consultation and assessment, and shall work under the authority and guidance of the Association Committee, to which it shall report after each meeting. The sub-committee does not have any decision-making power but may submit proposals to the Association Committee.

3. Subject matter

The sub-committee shall discuss the implementation of the Association Agreement and the related European Neighbourhood Policy Action Plan in the areas listed below, among others, and shall assess progress on the objectives and actions identified and agreed upon in the Action Plan. Where relevant, cooperation in public administration matters shall be discussed. The sub-committee shall examine any problems that may arise in the areas listed below and shall suggest possible steps to be undertaken.

3(a) Customs procedures, customs nomenclature, customs valuation

3(b) Rules of origin

3(c) Tariff regimes

3(d) Customs cooperation

3(e) Taxation

The above list is not exhaustive and other subjects may be added by the Association Committee.

The sub-committee may discuss matters relating to one, several or all of the above areas.

4. Secretariat

A representative of the European Commission and a representative of the Government of Lebanon shall act jointly as permanent secretaries of the sub-committee.

All communications concerning the sub-committee shall be forwarded to the secretaries. The secretaries shall be responsible for the preparation of the sub-committee meetings, including dates and agendas.

5. Meetings

The sub-committee shall meet whenever circumstances require, and in principle at least once a year. A meeting may be convened at the request of the chairperson of either party, channelled through their secretary, who shall pass on the request to the other party. Upon receipt of a request for a sub-committee meeting, the secretary of the other party shall reply within fifteen working days. Where possible, and with the agreement of both parties, a number of sub-committee meetings may be grouped over several days.

In cases of particular urgency, sub-committee meetings may be convened at shorter notice subject to the agreement of both parties. All requests to convene meetings shall be in writing.

Each meeting of the sub-committee shall be held at a time and place agreed by both parties.

The meetings shall be convened by the secretary in charge in agreement with the chair. Before each meeting, the chair shall be informed of the intended composition of the delegation of each party.

If both parties agree, the sub-committee may invite experts to its meetings to provide the specific information desired.

6. Agenda of the meetings

All requests for items to be included in the sub-committee agenda shall be forwarded to the secretaries.

A provisional agenda shall be drawn up by the chair for each meeting. It shall be forwarded by the secretary in charge to his or her counterpart not later than ten days before the beginning of the meeting.

The provisional agenda shall include those items in respect of which requests for inclusion in the agenda have been received by the secretaries not later than fifteen days before the beginning of the meeting. Supporting documentation shall be supplied to both parties at least seven days ahead of the meeting. To take account of urgent matters, these time limits may be shortened provided both parties agree.

The agenda shall be adopted by the sub-committee at the beginning of each meeting.

7. Minutes

Minutes shall be taken and agreed by both secretaries after each meeting. A copy of the minutes, including the sub-committee's proposals and recommendations, shall be forwarded by the secretaries of the sub-committee to the secretaries and chair of the Association Committee.

8. Publicity

Unless otherwise decided, the meetings of the sub-committee shall not be public and the relevant minutes shall be confidential.

Rules of procedure

EU-Lebanon Sub-Committee No 10

Research, innovation, information society, education and culture

1. Composition and chair

The sub-committee shall be composed of representatives of the European Community and its Member States and representatives of the Government of Lebanon. It shall be chaired alternately by the two parties. Each side shall appoint its own chairperson.

2. Role

The sub-committee shall be a forum for discussion, consultation and assessment, and shall work under the authority and guidance of the Association Committee, to which it shall report after each meeting. The sub-committee does not have any decision-making power but may submit proposals to the Association Committee.

3. Subject matter

The sub-committee shall discuss the implementation of the Association Agreement and the related European Neighbourhood Policy Action Plan in the areas listed below, among others, and shall assess progress on the objectives and actions identified and agreed upon in the Action Plan. Where relevant, cooperation in public administration matters shall be discussed. The sub-committee shall examine any problems that may arise in the areas listed below and shall suggest possible steps to be undertaken.

3(a) Research, Science and technological innovation

3(b) Education, training and youth

3(c) Cultural cooperation

3(d) Information society

3(e) Audio-visual policies

3(f) Civil society cooperation

The above list is not exhaustive and other subjects may be added by the Association Committee.

The sub-committee may discuss matters relating to one, several or all of the above areas.

4. Secretariat

A representative of the European Commission and a representative of the Government of Lebanon shall act jointly as permanent secretaries of the sub-committee.

All communications concerning the sub-committee shall be forwarded to the secretaries. The secretaries shall be responsible for the preparation of the sub-committee meetings, including dates and agendas.

5. Meetings

The sub-committee shall meet whenever circumstances require, and in principle at least once a year. A meeting may be convened at the request of the chairperson of either party, channelled through their secretary, who shall pass on the request to the other party. Upon receipt of a request for a sub-committee meeting, the secretary of the other party shall reply within fifteen working days. Where possible, and with the agreement of both parties, a number of sub-committee meetings may be grouped over several days.

In cases of particular urgency, sub-committee meetings may be convened at shorter notice subject to the agreement of both parties. All requests to convene meetings shall be in writing.

Each meeting of the sub-committee shall be held at a time and place agreed by both parties.

The meetings shall be convened by the secretary in charge in agreement with the chair. Before each meeting, the chair shall be informed of the intended composition of the delegation of each party.

If both parties agree, the sub-committee may invite experts to its meetings to provide the specific information desired.

6. Agenda of the meetings

All requests for items to be included in the sub-committee agenda shall be forwarded to the secretaries.

A provisional agenda shall be drawn up by the chair for each meeting. It shall be forwarded by the secretary in charge to his or her counterpart not later than ten days before the beginning of the meeting.

The provisional agenda shall include those items in respect of which requests for inclusion in the agenda have been received by the secretaries not later than fifteen days before the beginning of the meeting. Supporting documentation shall be supplied to both parties at least seven days ahead of the meeting. To take account of urgent matters, these time limits may be shortened provided both parties agree.

The agenda shall be adopted by the sub-committee at the beginning of each meeting.

7. Minutes

Minutes shall be taken and agreed by both secretaries after each meeting. A copy of the minutes, including the sub-committee's proposals and recommendations, shall be forwarded by the secretaries of the sub-committee to the secretaries and chair of the Association Committee.

8. Publicity

Unless otherwise decided, the meetings of the sub-committee shall not be public and the relevant minutes shall be confidential.

[1] OJ C , , p. .