ISSN 1725-2555 |
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Official Journal of the European Union |
L 230 |
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English edition |
Legislation |
Volume 51 |
Contents |
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II Acts adopted under the EC Treaty/Euratom Treaty whose publication is not obligatory |
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DECISIONS |
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Council |
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2008/687/EC |
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RECOMMENDATIONS |
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Council |
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2008/688/EC |
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Acts whose titles are printed in light type are those relating to day-to-day management of agricultural matters, and are generally valid for a limited period. The titles of all other Acts are printed in bold type and preceded by an asterisk. |
II Acts adopted under the EC Treaty/Euratom Treaty whose publication is not obligatory
DECISIONS
Council
28.8.2008 |
EN |
Official Journal of the European Union |
L 230/1 |
DECISION No 1/2007 OF THE EU-EGYPT ASSOCIATION COUNCIL
of 6 March 2007
setting up subcommittees of the Association Committee and a Working Group on Migration, Social and Consular Affairs
(2008/687/EC)
THE EU-EGYPT 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 Arab Republic of Egypt, of the other part (1) (the Euro-Mediterranean Agreement),
Whereas:
(1) |
A free trade area is to be established between the EU and the Arab Republic of Egypt by 31 December 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 association 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 Euro-Mediterranean Agreement provides for the setting up of the working groups or bodies necessary for the implementation of the Euro-Mediterranean Agreement and Article 67 of the Euro-Mediterranean Agreement provides for the setting up of a working group to evaluate the implementation of the provisions related to, inter alia, migration, social and consular affairs, |
HAS DECIDED AS FOLLOWS:
Article 1
The working group on migration, social and consular affairs and the subcommittees of the EU-Egypt Association Committee listed in Annex 1 are hereby set up and the rules of procedure of the Working Group and those subcommittees listed in Annex 2 are hereby adopted.
The Working Group and the subcommittees shall work under the authority of the Association Committee, to which they shall report after each of their meetings. They 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 groups or to abolish existing subcommittees or groups.
Article 2
This Decision shall enter into force on the day of its adoption.
Done at Brussels, 6 March 2007.
For the Association Council
The President
A. ABUL GHEIT
(1) OJ L 304, 30.9.2004, p. 39.
ANNEX 1
EU-EGYPT ASSOCIATION AGREEMENT
Working Group on Migration, Social and Consular Affairs and subcommittees attached to the Association Committee
1. |
Working group on migration, social and consular affairs |
2. |
Internal market |
3. |
Industry, trade, services and investment |
4. |
Transport, environment and energy |
5. |
Information society and audiovisual, research and innovation, education and culture |
6. |
Agriculture and fisheries |
7. |
Justice and security |
8. |
Customs cooperation |
9. |
Political matters: Human Rights and Democracy — International and regional issues |
ANNEX 2
RULES OF PROCEDURE
EU-Egypt Working Group on Migration, Social and Consular Affairs
1. Composition and chair
The Working Group shall be composed of representatives of the European Community and its Member States and representatives of the Government of the Arab Republic of Egypt and be chaired alternately by the two parties.
2. Role
The Working Group shall work under the authority of the Association Committee, to which it shall report after each meeting. The working Group does not have any decision-making power, but may submit proposals to the Association Committee.
3. Subject matter
The Working Group shall discuss the implementation of the Association Agreement in the areas listed below. In particular, it shall assess progress as regards law approximation, implementation and enforcement. Where relevant, cooperation in public administration matters shall be discussed. The Working Group shall examine any problems that may arise in the sectors listed below and shall suggest possible steps to be undertaken.
(a) |
Migrant communities’ living and working conditions |
(b) |
Migration |
(c) |
Fight against illegal migration |
(d) |
Equal treatment between Egyptian and Community nationals |
(e) |
Cooperation in facilitating issuing of visas and simplification of its procedures |
(f) |
Asylum |
(g) |
Furthering of tolerance and the removal of discrimination, including for people with disabilities |
(h) |
Promotion of the role of women |
(i) |
Egyptian family planning and mother and child protection programmes |
(j) |
Social protection system |
(k) |
Employment policy and vocational training |
(l) |
Technical cooperation related to institutional capacity building and human resources training |
(m) |
Bilateral agreements between Egypt and EU Member States on social security of workers legally resident and working in their respective territories |
The above list is not exhaustive and other subjects, including horizontal matters, e.g. statistics, may be added by the Association Committee.
The Working Group may discuss matters relating to one, several or all of the above sectors.
4. Secretariat
An official of the European Commission and an official of the Government of the Arab Republic of Egypt shall act jointly as permanent secretaries of the Working Group.
All communications concerning the Working Group shall be forwarded to the secretaries.
5. Meetings
The Working Group shall meet whenever circumstances require. A meeting may be convened on the basis of a request from either party, channelled through their secretary, who will pass the request onto the other party. Upon receipt of a request for a Working Group meeting, the secretary of the other party shall reply within 15 working days.
In cases of particular urgency, the Working Group may be convened at shorter notice subject to the agreement of both parties. All requests to convene meetings should be in writing.
Each meeting of the Working Group 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 will be informed of the intended composition of the delegation of each party.
If both parties agree, the Working Group may invite experts to its meetings to provide the specific information so requested.
Each meeting will be attended by a representative of the Ministry of International Cooperation in order to ensure the appropriate coordination and linkages with both ongoing and future projects and programmes funded by the EU, as well as to ensure that the priorities identified during the meeting receive the necessary support.
6. Agenda of the meetings
All requests for items to be included in the Working Group agenda shall be forwarded to the secretaries.
A provisional agenda will 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 10 days before the beginning of the meeting.
The provisional agenda shall include the items in respect of which the secretaries have received a request for inclusion in the agenda not later than 15 days before the beginning of the meeting. Supporting documentation must be received by 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 Working Group 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 Working Group’s proposals, shall be forwarded by the secretaries of the Working Group to the secretaries and chair of the Association Committee.
8. Publicity
Unless otherwise decided, the meetings of the Working Group shall not be public.
RULES OF PROCEDURE
EU-Egypt subcommittee
Internal market
1. Composition and chair
The subcommittee shall be composed of representatives of the European Community and its Member States and representatives of the Government of the Arab Republic of Egypt and be chaired alternately by the two parties.
2. Role
The subcommittee shall work under the authority of the Association Committee, to which it shall report after each meeting. The subcommittee does not have any decision-making power, but may submit proposals to the Association Committee.
3. Subject matter
The subcommittee shall discuss the implementation of the Association Agreement in the areas listed below. In particular, it shall assess progress as regards law approximation, implementation and enforcement. Where relevant, cooperation in public administration matters shall be discussed. The subcommittee shall examine any problems that may arise in the sectors listed below and shall suggest possible steps to be undertaken.
(a) |
Technical regulations, metrology, accreditation, standardisation, normalisation, certification, conformity assessment and market surveillance |
(b) |
Competition law and State aid |
(c) |
Intellectual, industrial and commercial property rights |
(d) |
Public procurement |
The above list is not exhaustive and other subjects, including horizontal matters e.g. statistics, may be added by the Association Committee.
The subcommittee may discuss matters relating to one, several or all of the above sectors.
4. Secretariat
An official of the European Commission and an official of the Government of the Arab Republic of Egypt shall act jointly as permanent secretaries of the subcommittee.
All communications concerning the subcommittee shall be forwarded to the secretaries.
5. Meetings
The subcommittee shall meet whenever circumstances require. A meeting may be convened on the basis of a request from either party, channelled through their secretary, who will pass the request onto the other party. Upon receipt of a request for a subcommittee meeting, the secretary of the other party shall reply within 15 working days.
In cases of particular urgency, subcommittees may be convened at shorter notice subject to the agreement of both parties. All requests to convene meetings should be in writing.
Each meeting of the subcommittee 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 will be informed of the intended composition of the delegation of each party.
If both parties agree, the subcommittee may invite experts to its meetings to provide the specific information so requested.
Each meeting will be attended by a representative of the Ministry of International Cooperation in order to ensure the appropriate coordination and linkages with both ongoing and future projects and programmes funded by the EU as well as to ensure that the priorities identified during the meeting receive the necessary support.
6. Agenda of the meetings
All requests for items to be included in the subcommittee agenda shall be forwarded to the secretaries.
A provisional agenda will 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 the items in respect of which the secretaries have received a request for inclusion in the agenda not later than 15 days before the beginning of the meeting. Supporting documentation must be received by 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 subcommittee 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 subcommittee’s proposals, shall be forwarded by the secretaries of the subcommittee to the secretaries and chair of the Association Committee.
8. Publicity
Unless otherwise decided, the meetings of the subcommittee shall not be public.
RULES OF PROCEDURE
EU-Egypt subcommittee
Industry, trade, services and investment
1. Composition and chair
The subcommittee shall be composed of representatives of the European Community and its Member States and representatives of the Government of the Arab Republic of Egypt and be chaired alternately by the two parties.
2. Role
The subcommittee shall work under the authority of the Association Committee, to which it shall report after each meeting. The subcommittee does not have any decision-making power, but may submit proposals to the Association Committee.
3. Subject matter
The subcommittee shall discuss the implementation of the Association Agreement in the areas listed below. In particular, it shall assess progress as regards law approximation, implementation and enforcement. Where relevant, cooperation in public administration matters shall be discussed. The subcommittee shall examine any problems that may arise in the sectors listed below and shall suggest possible steps to be undertaken.
(a) |
Industrial cooperation, as described in Article 45 of the Association Agreement |
(b) |
Trade issues, market access, tariff and non-tariff matters including origin issues |
(c) |
Services, including financial and postal services |
(d) |
Tourism |
(e) |
Right of establishment and investment issues |
(f) |
Industrial modernisation |
(g) |
Access to finance and investment. |
The above list is not exhaustive and other subjects, including horizontal matters, e.g. statistics, may be added by the Association Committee.
The subcommittee may discuss matters relating to one, several or all of the above sectors.
4. Secretariat
An official of the European Commission and an official of the Government of the Arab Republic of Egypt shall act jointly as permanent secretaries of the subcommittee.
All communications concerning the subcommittee shall be forwarded to the secretaries.
5. Meetings
The subcommittee shall meet whenever circumstances require. A meeting may be convened on the basis of a request from either party, channelled through their secretary, who will pass the request onto the other party. Upon receipt of a request for a subcommittee meeting, the secretary of the other party shall reply within 15 working days.
In cases of particular urgency, subcommittees may be convened at shorter notice subject to the agreement of both parties. All requests to convene meetings should be in writing.
Each meeting of the subcommittee 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 will be informed of the intended composition of the delegation of each party.
If both parties agree, the subcommittee may invite experts to its meetings to provide the specific information so requested.
Each meeting will be attended by a representative of the Ministry of International Cooperation in order to ensure the appropriate coordination and linkages with both ongoing and future projects and programmes funded by the EU as well as to ensure that the priorities identified during the meeting receive the necessary support.
6. Agenda of the meetings
All requests for items to be included in the subcommittee agenda shall be forwarded to the secretaries.
A provisional agenda will 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 10 days before the beginning of the meeting.
The provisional agenda shall include the items in respect of which the secretaries have received a request for inclusion in the agenda not later than 15 days before the beginning of the meeting. Supporting documentation must be received by 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 subcommittee 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 subcommittee’s proposals, shall be forwarded by the secretaries of the subcommittee to the secretaries and chair of the Association Committee.
8. Publicity
Unless otherwise decided, the meetings of the subcommittee shall not be public.
RULES OF PROCEDURE
EU-Egypt subcommittee
Transport, environment and energy
1. Composition and chair
The subcommittee shall be composed of representatives of the European Community and its Member States and representatives of the Government of the Arab Republic of Egypt and be chaired alternately by the two parties.
2. Role
The subcommittee shall work under the authority of the Association Committee, to which it shall report after each meeting. The subcommittee does not have any decision-making power, but may submit proposals to the Association Committee.
3. Subject matter
The subcommittee shall discuss the implementation of the Association Agreement in the areas listed below. In particular, it shall assess progress as regards law approximation, implementation and enforcement and the integration of environment policy in all areas of the Association Agreement. Where relevant, cooperation in public administration matters shall be discussed. The subcommittee shall examine any problems that may arise in the sectors listed below and shall suggest possible steps to be undertaken.
(a) |
Transport: including infrastructure modernisation (in particular interconnections), market opening, security and safety in maritime and air transport, control and management of ports and airports, promoting intelligent transport systems and the use if information technologies in all modes of transport, developing road and rail transport connections with neighbouring countries, improving the multimodal system and boosting regional cooperation. |
(b) |
Environmental governance, sector specific issues (climate change, air quality, water resources and water quality, waste management, nature protection, desertification, coastal and marine pollution, industrial pollution, etc.) environmental integration, as well as international and regional environment cooperation. |
(c) |
Energy: including infrastructure modernization and development (in particular interconnections), security and safety of energy infrastructure and transport, demand management, promotion of renewable energies, research and cooperation in data exchange, regional cooperation in particular the promotion of a Mashrek gas market, pricing policy and agreements on purchasing gas in the European Union; exchange and transfer of new technology in the gas industry. |
The above list is not exhaustive and other subjects, including horizontal matters, e.g. statistics, may be added by the Association Committee.
The subcommittee may discuss matters relating to one, several or all of the above sectors.
4. Secretariat
An official of the European Commission and an official of the Government of the Arab Republic of Egypt shall act jointly as permanent secretaries of the subcommittee.
All communications concerning the subcommittee shall be forwarded to the secretaries.
5. Meetings
The subcommittee shall meet whenever circumstances require. A meeting may be convened on the basis of a request from either party, channelled through their secretary, who will pass the request onto the other party. Upon receipt of a request for a subcommittee meeting, the secretary of the other party shall reply within 15 working days.
In cases of particular urgency, subcommittees may be convened at shorter notice subject to the agreement of both parties. All requests to convene meetings should be in writing.
Each meeting of the subcommittee 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 will be informed of the intended composition of the delegation of each party.
If both parties agree, the subcommittee may invite experts to its meetings to provide the specific information so requested.
Each meeting will be attended by a representative of the Ministry of International Cooperation in order to ensure the appropriate coordination and linkages with both ongoing and future projects and programmes funded by the EU as well as to ensure that the priorities identified during the meeting receive the necessary support.
6. Agenda of the meetings
All requests for items to be included in the subcommittee agenda shall be forwarded to the secretaries.
A provisional agenda will 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 10 days before the beginning of the meeting.
The provisional agenda shall include the items in respect of which the secretaries have received a request for inclusion in the agenda not later than 15 days before the beginning of the meeting. Supporting documentation must be received by 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 subcommittee 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 subcommittee’s proposals, shall be forwarded by the secretaries of the subcommittee to the secretaries and chair of the Association Committee.
8. Publicity
Unless otherwise decided, the meetings of the subcommittee shall not be public.
RULES OF PROCEDURE
EU-Egypt subcommittee
Information society and audiovisual, research and innovation, education and culture
1. Composition and chair
The subcommittee shall be composed of representatives of the European Community and its Member States and representatives of the Government of the Arab Republic of Egypt and be chaired alternately by the two parties.
2. Role
The subcommittee shall work under the authority of the Association Committee, to which it shall report after each meeting. The subcommittee does not have any decision-making power, but may submit proposals to the Association Committee.
3. Subject matter
The subcommittee shall discuss the implementation of the Association Agreement in the areas listed below. In particular, it shall assess progress as regards law approximation, implementation and enforcement. Where relevant, cooperation in public administration matters shall be discussed. The subcommittee shall examine any problems that may arise in the sectors listed below and shall suggest possible steps to be undertaken.
(a) |
Development of institutional capacities relating to science, technology and innovation, in particular those capacities in the use of S&T research findings by industry and SMEs together with follow-up of the agreement involving the Arab Republic of Egypt in the RTD Framework Programme. |
(b) |
Cooperation in the field of communications and information technologies |
(c) |
Reforms and cooperation in the field of education, training and youth including, inter alia, methods of developing technical education, exchanging experience in training teachers and school management, modernising the educational programs and curricula and combating illiteracy among women |
(d) |
Cultural cooperation |
(e) |
Audiovisual, information and communication policies |
(f) |
participation of Egyptian organisations in the calls for proposals of the Information Society Technologies program |
(g) |
policies and regulation for electronic communication networks and services |
The above list is not exhaustive and other subjects, including horizontal matters, e.g. statistics, may be added by the Association Committee.
The subcommittee may discuss matters relating to one, several or all of the above sectors.
4. Secretariat
An official of the European Commission and an official of the Government of the Arab Republic of Egypt shall act jointly as permanent secretaries of the subcommittee.
All communications concerning the subcommittee shall be forwarded to the secretaries.
5. Meetings
The subcommittee shall meet whenever circumstances require. A meeting may be convened on the basis of a request from either party, channelled through their secretary, who will pass the request onto the other party. Upon receipt of a request for a subcommittee meeting, the secretary of the other party shall reply within 15 working days.
In cases of particular urgency, subcommittees may be convened at shorter notice subject to the agreement of both parties. All requests to convene meetings should be in writing.
Each meeting of the subcommittee 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 will be informed of the intended composition of the delegation of each party.
If both parties agree, the subcommittee may invite experts to its meetings to provide the specific information so requested.
Each meeting will be attended by a representative of the Ministry of International Cooperation in order to ensure the appropriate coordination and linkages with both ongoing and future projects and programmes funded by the EU as well as to ensure that the priorities identified during the meeting receive the necessary support.
6. Agenda of the meetings
All requests for items to be included in the subcommittee agenda shall be forwarded to the secretaries.
A provisional agenda will 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 10 days before the beginning of the meeting.
The provisional agenda shall include the items in respect of which the secretaries have received a request for inclusion in the agenda not later than 15 days before the beginning of the meeting. Supporting documentation must be received by 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 subcommittee 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 subcommittee’s proposals, shall be forwarded by the secretaries of the subcommittee to the secretaries and chair of the Association Committee.
8. Publicity
Unless otherwise decided, the meetings of the subcommittee shall not be public.
RULES OF PROCEDURE
EU-Egypt subcommittee
Agriculture and fisheries
1. Composition and chair
The subcommittee shall be composed of representatives of the European Community and its Member States and representatives of the Government of the Arab Republic of Egypt and be chaired alternately by the two parties.
2. Role
The subcommittee shall work under the authority of the Association Committee, to which it shall report after each meeting. The subcommittee does not have any decision-making power, but may submit proposals to the Association Committee.
3. Subject matter
The subcommittee shall discuss the implementation of the Association Agreement in the areas listed below. In particular, it shall assess progress as regards law approximation, implementation and enforcement. Where relevant, cooperation in public administration matters shall be discussed. The subcommittee shall examine any problems that may arise in the sectors listed below and shall suggest possible steps to be undertaken.
(a) |
Agriculture and fisheries products; |
(b) |
Agricultural cooperation and rural development |
(c) |
Phytosanitary and veterinary matters |
(d) |
Processed agricultural products |
(e) |
Legislation applicable to trade |
The above list is not exhaustive and other subjects, including horizontal matters, e.g. statistics, may be added by the Association Committee.
The subcommittee may discuss matters relating to one, several or all of the above sectors.
4. Secretariat
An official of the European Commission and an official of the Government of the Arab Republic of Egypt shall act jointly as permanent secretaries of the subcommittee.
All communications concerning the subcommittee shall be forwarded to the secretaries.
5. Meetings
The subcommittee shall meet whenever circumstances require. A meeting may be convened on the basis of a request from either party, channelled through their secretary, who will pass the request onto the other party. Upon receipt of a request for a subcommittee meeting, the secretary of the other party shall reply within 15 working days.
In cases of particular urgency, subcommittees may be convened at shorter notice subject to the agreement of both parties. All requests to convene meetings should be in writing.
Each meeting of the subcommittee 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 will be informed of the intended composition of the delegation of each party.
If both parties agree, the subcommittee may invite experts to its meetings to provide the specific information so requested.
Each meeting will be attended by a representative of the Ministry of International Cooperation in order to ensure the appropriate coordination and linkages with both ongoing and future projects and programmes funded by the EU as well as to ensure that the priorities identified during the meeting receive the necessary support.
6. Agenda of the meetings
All requests for items to be included in the subcommittee agenda shall be forwarded to the secretaries.
A provisional agenda will 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 10 days before the beginning of the meeting.
The provisional agenda shall include the items in respect of which the secretaries have received a request for inclusion in the agenda not later than 15 days before the beginning of the meeting. Supporting documentation must be received by 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 subcommittee 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 subcommittee’s proposals, shall be forwarded by the secretaries of the subcommittee to the secretaries and chair of the Association Committee.
8. Publicity
Unless otherwise decided, the meetings of the subcommittee shall not be public.
RULES OF PROCEDURE
EU-Egypt subcommittee
Justice and security
1. Composition and chair
The subcommittee shall be composed of representatives of the European Community and its Member States and representatives of the Government of the Arab Republic of Egypt and be chaired alternately by the two parties.
2. Role
The subcommittee shall work under the authority of the Association Committee, to which it shall report after each meeting. The subcommittee does not have any decision-making power, but may submit proposals to the Association Committee.
3. Subject matter
The subcommittee shall discuss the implementation of the Association Agreement in the areas listed below. In particular, it shall assess progress as regards law approximation, implementation and enforcement. Where relevant, cooperation in public administration matters shall be discussed. The subcommittee shall examine any problems that may arise in the sectors listed below and shall suggest possible steps to be undertaken.
(a) |
Cooperation on justice |
(b) |
Judicial cooperation in civil and criminal matters |
(c) |
Drugs |
(d) |
Cooperation in combating organised crime, including trafficking of human beings, illegal immigration, terrorism and money laundering |
(e) |
Cooperation in the field of fighting corruption. |
The above list is not exhaustive and other subjects, including horizontal matters, e.g. statistics, may be added by the Association Committee.
The subcommittee may discuss matters relating to one, several or all of the above sectors.
4. Secretariat
An official of the European Commission and an official of the Government of the Arab Republic of Egypt shall act jointly as permanent secretaries of the subcommittee.
All communications concerning the subcommittee shall be forwarded to the secretaries.
5. Meetings
The subcommittee shall meet whenever circumstances require. A meeting may be convened on the basis of a request from either party, channelled through their secretary, who will pass the request onto the other party. Upon receipt of a request for a subcommittee meeting, the secretary of the other party shall reply within 15 working days.
In cases of particular urgency, subcommittees may be convened at shorter notice subject to the agreement of both parties. All requests to convene meetings should be in writing.
Each meeting of the subcommittee 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 will be informed of the intended composition of the delegation of each party.
If both parties agree, the subcommittee may invite experts to its meetings to provide the specific information so requested.
Each meeting will be attended by a representative of the Ministry of International Cooperation in order to ensure the appropriate coordination and linkages with both ongoing and future projects and programmes funded by the EU as well as to ensure that the priorities identified during the meeting receive the necessary support.
6. Agenda of the meetings
All requests for items to be included in the subcommittee agenda shall be forwarded to the secretaries.
A provisional agenda will 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 10 days before the beginning of the meeting.
The provisional agenda shall include the items in respect of which the secretaries have received a request for inclusion in the agenda not later than 15 days before the beginning of the meeting. Supporting documentation must be received by 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 subcommittee 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 subcommittee’s proposals, shall be forwarded by the secretaries of the subcommittee to the secretaries and chair of the Association Committee.
8. Publicity
Unless otherwise decided, the meetings of the subcommittee shall not be public.
RULES OF PROCEDURE
EU-Egypt subcommittee
Customs cooperation
1. Composition and chair
The subcommittee shall be composed of representatives of the European Community and its Member States and representatives of the Government of the Arab Republic of Egypt and be chaired alternately by the two parties.
2. Role
The subcommittee shall work under the authority of the Association Committee, to which it shall report after each meeting. The subcommittee does not have any decision making power, but may submit proposals to the Association Committee.
3. Subject matter
The subcommittee shall discuss the implementation of the Association Agreement in the areas listed below. In particular, it shall assess progress as regards law approximation, implementation and enforcement. Where relevant, cooperation in public administration matters shall be discussed. The subcommittee shall examine any problems that may arise in the sectors listed below and shall suggest possible steps to be undertaken.
(a) |
Rules of origin |
(b) |
General customs procedures, customs nomenclature, custom valuation |
(c) |
Tariff regimes |
(d) |
Customs cooperation |
The above list is not exhaustive and other subjects, including horizontal matters, e.g. statistics, may be added by the Association Committee.
The subcommittee may discuss matters relating to one, several or all of the above sectors.
4. Secretariat
An official of the European Commission and an official of the Government of the Arab Republic of Egypt shall act jointly as permanent secretaries of the subcommittee.
All communications concerning the subcommittee shall be forwarded to the secretaries.
5. Meetings
The subcommittee shall meet whenever circumstances require. A meeting may be convened on the basis of a request from either party, channelled through their secretary, who will pass the request onto the other party. Upon receipt of a request for a subcommittee meeting, the secretary of the other party shall reply within 15 working days.
In cases of particular urgency, subcommittees may be convened at shorter notice subject to the agreement of both parties. All requests to convene meetings should be in writing.
Each meeting of the subcommittee 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 will be informed of the intended composition of the delegation of each party.
If both parties agree, the subcommittee may invite experts to its meetings to provide the specific information so requested.
Each meeting will be attended by a representative of the Ministry of International Cooperation in order to ensure the appropriate coordination and linkages with both ongoing and future projects and programmes funded by the EU as well as to ensure that the priorities identified during the meeting receive the necessary support.
6. Agenda of the meetings
All requests for items to be included in the subcommittee agenda shall be forwarded to the secretaries.
A provisional agenda will 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 10 days before the beginning of the meeting.
The provisional agenda shall include the items in respect of which the secretaries have received a request for inclusion in the agenda not later than 15 days before the beginning of the meeting. Supporting documentation must be received by 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 subcommittee 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 subcommittee’s proposals, shall be forwarded by the secretaries of the subcommittee to the secretaries and chair of the Association Committee.
8. Publicity
Unless otherwise decided, the meetings of the subcommittee shall not be public.
RULES OF PROCEDURE
EU- Egypt subcommittee
Political matters: Human rights and democracy — International and regional issues,
1. Composition and chair
The subcommittee shall be composed of representatives of the European Community and its Member States and representatives of the Government of the Arab Republic of Egypt and shall be chaired alternately by each party.
2. Role
The subcommittee, as a forum for discussion, consultation and assessment, shall work under the authority of the Association Committee, to which it shall report after each meeting. The subcommittee does not have any decision-making power, but may submit proposals to the Association Committee.
3. Topics
The subcommittee shall discuss the implementation of the Association Agreement and the related ENP Action Plan, including in the areas listed below and shall assess progress on the objectives and actions which have been identified and agreed upon in the Action Plan. For matters concerning human rights, democracy, international and regional issues included in the EU-Egypt Neighbourhood Action Plan, the subcommittee shall be the main technical follow-up mechanism. Where relevant, cooperation in public administration matters shall be discussed. The subcommittee shall also examine any problems that may arise in the sectors listed below and shall suggest steps to be undertaken. The subcommittee will be divided in the following two groups:
(a) |
Human rights and democracy
|
(b) |
International and regional issues
|
The above list is not exhaustive and other subjects may be added by the Association Committee.
The subcommittee may discuss matters relating to one, several or all of the above sectors.
This subcommittee aims to facilitate dialogue, within a context of mutual understanding and respect for the positions of both parties, on all aspects of human rights and democracy, international and regional issues, in a comprehensive and non-exclusive way.
4. Secretariat
An official of the European Commission and an official of the Government of the Arab Republic of Egypt shall act jointly as permanent secretaries of the subcommittee.
All communications concerning the subcommittee shall be forwarded to the secretaries.
5. Meetings
The subcommittee shall meet whenever circumstances require. A meeting may be convened on the basis of a request from either party, channelled through their secretary, who will pass the request onto the other party. Upon receipt of a request for a subcommittee meeting, the secretary of the other party shall reply within 15 working days.
In cases of particular urgency, subcommittee meetings may be convened at shorter notice subject to the agreement of both parties. All requests to convene meetings should be in writing.
Each meeting of the subcommittee shall be held at a time and place agreed by both parties, allocating adequate timing to each group as mentioned under section 3.
The meetings shall be convened by the secretary in charge in agreement with the chair. Before each meeting, the chair will be informed of the intended composition of the delegation of each party.
If both parties agree, the subcommittee may invite experts to its meetings to provide the specific information so requested.
Each meeting will be attended by a representative of the Ministry of International Cooperation in order to ensure the appropriate coordination and linkages with both ongoing and future projects and programmes funded by the EU as well as to ensure that the priorities identified during the meeting receive the necessary support.
6. Agenda of the meetings
All requests for items to be included on the subcommittee’s agenda shall be forwarded to the secretaries.
A provisional agenda will 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 10 days before the beginning of the meeting.
The provisional agenda shall include the items in respect of which the secretaries have received a request for inclusion in the agenda not later than fifteen days before the beginning of the meeting.
Supporting documentation must be received by 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 subcommittee 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 subcommittee’s proposals, shall be forwarded by the secretaries of the subcommittee to the secretaries and chair of the Association Committee.
8. Publicity
Unless otherwise decided, the meetings of the subcommittee shall not be public and its proceedings shall not be made public.
RECOMMENDATIONS
Council
28.8.2008 |
EN |
Official Journal of the European Union |
L 230/19 |
RECOMMENDATION No 1/2007 OF THE EU-EGYPT ASSOCIATION COUNCIL
of 6 March 2007
on the implementation of the EU-Egypt Action Plan
(2008/688/EC)
THE EU-EGYPT 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 Arab Republic of Egypt, of the other part (1) (the Euro-Mediterranean Agreement), and in particular Article 76 thereof,
Whereas:
(1) |
Article 76 of the Euro-Mediterranean Agreement gives the Association Council the power to make appropriate recommendations, for the purposes of attaining the objectives of the Euro-Mediterranean Agreement. |
(2) |
In terms of Article 86 of the Euro-Mediterranean Agreement, the Parties shall take any general or specific measures required to fulfil their obligations under the Euro-Mediterranean Agreement and shall see to it that the objectives set out in the Euro-Mediterranean Agreement are attained. |
(3) |
The Parties to the Euro-Mediterranean Agreement have agreed on the text of the EU-Egypt Action Plan. |
(4) |
The EU-Egypt Action Plan should support the implementation of the Euro-Mediterranean Agreement through the elaboration and agreement between the Parties of concrete steps which will provide practical guidance for such implementation. |
(5) |
The Action Plan serves the dual purpose of setting out concrete steps in bringing about the fulfilment of the Parties’ obligations set out in the Euro-Mediterranean Agreement, and of providing a broader framework for further strengthening EU-Egypt relations to involve a significant measure of economic integration and a deepening of political cooperation, in accordance with the overall objectives of the Euro-Mediterranean Agreement, |
HAS ADOPTED THE FOLLOWING RECOMMENDATION:
Sole Article
The Association Council recommends that the Parties implement the EU-Egypt Action Plan set out in the Annex, insofar as such implementation is directed towards attainment of the objectives of the Euro-Mediterranean Agreement.
Done at Brussels, 6 March 2007.
For the Association Council
The President
A. ABUL GHEIT
(1) OJ L 304, 30.9.2004, p. 39.
ANNEX
EU/EGYPT ACTION PLAN
1. Introduction
The Arab Republic of Egypt and the European Union as key partners and, near neighbours, reaffirm their commitment to deepen their political, economic and social relations on the basis of their close cooperation and strategic partnership that has developed in the last few decades and within the framework of the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership and the Association Agreement embodying the objectives and principles of the Barcelona Declaration, and complementing its multilateral process.
The evolving regional and international context of Egypt-EU relations has fostered greater scope for cooperation. On the one hand, the enlargement of the EU on 1 May 2004 which has brought a historical shift for the Union in political, geographic and economic terms, paved the way for the European Neighbourhood Policy that aims to deepen the EU’s relations with its neighbouring countries to the East and South. On the other hand, Egypt continues to pursue its dynamic foreign policy aiming to strengthen its relations with its international partners in particular the EU, its commitment to further integration with the global economy, and its efforts for further political and economic development and modernisation. Thus, a major opportunity has evolved for Egypt and the EU to further develop their strategic partnership through an increasingly close and enhanced relationship. This will involve a significant degree of economic integration and deepening of political, cultural and social cooperation, aiming to promote peace, stability, security, growth, development and prosperity in the Euro-Mediterranean region as well as modernisation of the Egyptian economy and society.
In this regard, the Action Plan between Egypt and the EU within the European Neighbourhood Policy sets ambitious objectives based on joint ownership, common interests, reciprocal commitments, differentiation, shared values and implementation of national plans and reform programmes, politically, economically, socially and institutionally.
Egypt and the EU agree, through the current Action Plan, to enter into intensified political, security, economic, trade, investment, scientific, technological and cultural relations, and shared responsibility in establishing an area of peace and stability including the prevention and settlement of conflicts in the region and to reinvigorate regional and sub-regional cooperation.
The level of ambition of the EU-Egypt relationship, leading to continuing trade liberalisation including in agriculture and services, a stake in the EU’s internal market, increased financial support and enhanced political cooperation, will depend on the degree of commitment to common values as well as the implementation of jointly agreed priorities to mutual benefits. The pace of progress of the relationship will acknowledge fully the efforts and concrete achievements in meeting those commitments.
Recognising Egypt’s efforts and reform priorities to further develop and modernise all sectors of the Egyptian society and economy based on the respect of her identity, specificities and national priorities, the Action Plan aims to support such efforts and priorities as reflected in the National Development Plan 2002-2007, President Mubarak’s Electoral Platform for 2005 and the Government’s statement to the parliament in January 2006.
These include national priorities aiming to: improve quality of life and standard of living; increase employment opportunities and reduce unemployment; reduce poverty and expand the coverage of social security; eradicate illiteracy and develop education and higher education; consolidate the role of institutions, promote the protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms; continue maintaining and ensuring judiciary independence; expand the participation in political life; enhance human resources and institutional capacity building; increase rates of economic growth and investments; increase female participation in development; achieve a significant expansion in the production and exports capacities; improve industrial potentials; promote innovation, scientific research and technological development and preserve the environment.
This Action Plan is a first step in a process covering a timeframe of three to five years. Its implementation will help fulfil the provisions and aims of the Association Agreement (AA) and will encourage and support Egypt’s national development, modernisation and reform objectives. It will furthermore help to devise and implement policies and measures to promote economic growth, employment and social cohesion, to reduce poverty and protect the environment, thereby contributing to the long term objective of sustainable development. Implementation of the Action Plan will also help, where appropriate, further integration into European Union economic, social and technological structures and significantly increase the possibility to advance the approximation of Egyptian legislation, norms and standards to those of the European Union in appropriate areas, thereby enhancing prospects for trade, investment and growth.
The Action Plan will take into account the balance between the acceleration necessary for dynamic implementation and modernisation of the Egyptian economy and the imperatives of a sustainable socioeconomic development.
Egypt’s unique geographical position and its historical and strategic relations with the Arab and African countries, and its key role for peace and stability in the Middle East, as well as the EU’s increasing role on the global arena and its enhanced contribution to peace, security and economic development in the Mediterranean and the Middle East, enable Egypt and EU, through this Action Plan to further develop their cooperation on regional and international issues, particularly referring to the Middle East Peace Process, disarmament and arms control, non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their delivery systems in the Middle East and elsewhere, and the fight against terrorism, to enhance and to promote dialogue between cultures and civilisations and to promote South-South trade and cooperation.
In order to contribute to the accomplishment of the ambitious objectives of this Action Plan, the EU will provide appropriate financial support through the different available financial instruments.
The AA is the legal framework governing the bilateral relations between Egypt and the EU.
New Partnership Perspectives
The European Neighbourhood Policy and Egypt’s policy to deepen its relationship with the EU open New Partnership Perspectives:
— |
the perspective of moving beyond the existing relationship to a significant degree of economic integration including through a stake in the EU’s Internal Market, which aims to promote the free movements of goods, services, capitals and persons and the possibility for Egypt to participate progressively in key aspects of EU policies and programmes, |
— |
an upgrade in the scope and intensity of political cooperation, |
— |
deepening trade and economic relations through the continued reduction of trade barriers on both sides, increased access to each others’ markets including in agriculture and services and continuous upgrading of economic legislations. This will stimulate trade and foreign direct investment and accelerate economic growth accompanied by a sufficient strengthening of the private sector and business conditions leading to a greater economic integration between Egypt and the European Union, |
— |
increased financial support: EU financial assistance for Egypt will be better targeted to support the implementation of the actions identified in the present document, as well as the implementation of the Association Agreement and development, modernisation and reform agenda of the Government of Egypt, in particular developing human resources and enhancing the business climate to increase investment and employment. The European Commission is furthermore proposing a new European Neighbourhood and Partnership Instrument (ENPI) for this purpose, also covering cross-border and transnational cooperation between Egypt and EU Member States. There will also be support for infrastructure investment as well as for the development of the private sector and partnership through the European Investment Bank and FEMIP, |
— |
prospect of gradual opening of or reinforced cooperation in relevant European Community programmes, promoting, inter alia, cultural, educational, environmental, technological and scientific links, |
— |
support for meeting EU and international norms and standards and for modernisation efforts including through technical assistance and twinning, as well as targeted support and advise for legislative approximation through mechanisms such as TAIEX, |
— |
enhanced direct cooperation between administrations based on the bodies set up by the Association Agreement in particular institutionalised thematic sub-committees. |
In light of the fulfilment of the objectives of this Action Plan and of the overall evolution of EU–Egypt relations, consideration will be given to the possibility of a new contractual relationship.
Priorities for action
This Action Plan sets out a comprehensive set of priorities in areas within the scope of the Association Agreement. Among these priorities, all of which are important, particular attention should be given to:
— |
enhance political dialogue and cooperation, based on shared values, including on issues such as continued commitment and efforts to achieve a just, comprehensive and lasting settlement to the Middle East conflict based on relevant UNSC resolutions and the terms of reference of the Madrid Conference and the principle of ‘land for peace’, |
— |
enhance dialogue on security issues such as disarmament and arms control; non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their delivery systems, including the objective of establishing a zone free of WMD and their delivery systems in the Middle East; strengthening the fight against terrorism; peacekeeping, |
— |
enhance the effectiveness of institutions entrusted with strengthening democracy and the rule of law and consolidate the independent and effective administration of justice, |
— |
promote the protection of human rights in all its aspects; improve the dialogue between cultures and religions, cooperate in the fight against intolerance, discrimination, racism and xenophobia and in the promotion of respect for religions and cultures. Such priorities would be pursued based on the principles of respect, understanding and equality, |
— |
increase economic integration with the EU, particularly by taking steps to the gradual liberalisation of trade in services and on the right of establishment and to liberalise trade in agriculture, processed agricultural products and fisheries, and enhance Egypt’s export potential to the EU market by upgrading the quality of Egypt’s agricultural production through improving sanitary and phytosanitary standards and rural development, |
— |
improve macroeconomic governance, reforme the financial sector, strengthen the role of the private sector, enhance the business climate, in particular for SMEs, eliminate institutional, regulatory and administrative obstacles with a view to attract increasing national and foreign investments and to create job opportunities, consequently alleviating poverty, |
— |
boost industrial development and enterprises capabilities and competitiveness through improved skills, better access to finance, promotion of new technologies, encouraging entrepreneurship and innovation, and development of efficient business support services and increase labour-force productivity, |
— |
deepen and enhance the existing economic dialogue and identify areas suitable for gradual regulatory upgrading and approximation with EU technical legislation, standards and conformity assessment procedures, |
— |
proceed in reforming the tax system, improving public finance management, and upgrading public institutions, |
— |
promote south-south trade, through encouraging FDI participation in regional projects such as: infrastructure, trade facilitation, energy and transport, |
— |
strengthen cooperation on poverty reduction and social development, in particular in the areas of combating illiteracy, education reforms, upgrading the vocational training, training systems, quality assurance, as well as better socio-economic inclusion and social insurance and developing the health sector reform, with a particular focus on increasing the level of health security, health information and knowledge. Reforms of the education and higher education systems aim among other issues at enhancing overall quality and relevance to the labour market, |
— |
promote cooperation in the area of science and technology, develop national capabilities of technical, scientific and technological research and innovation, the development of R & D and transfer of technology, promote links in scientific research, strengthen efforts to implement the EU-Egypt Agreement on Scientific and Technological cooperation, strengthen links between higher research institutes and education institutions, |
— |
promote cooperation in the area of information technology and communications through promoting information society and its sustainability, including the use of ICT in development, the development of the ICT industry, innovation, in addition to the use of new technologies and electronics means of communications by businesses, government and citizens, as well as strengthening scientific and business links, |
— |
strengthen cooperation on migration-related issues, including the effective joint management of migration flows, legal and illegal migration, readmission, facilitation of the legal movement of individuals, equal treatment and social integration for legal migrants, and asylum issues, |
— |
promote cooperation on fight against organised crime, including trafficking in human beings, fight against drugs, fight against money laundering, and police and judicial cooperation, |
— |
promote cooperation in the transport field, in particular on developing infrastructure policies, implementing the sector reform programme aiming at separating regulatory, management and operation tasks; promoting the involvement of the private sector in transport projects and services; applying air, maritime, and road safety measures, and developing a Civil Global Navigation Satellite System (GALILEO), |
— |
enhance cooperation in the energy sector, in particular through energy policy exchanges, the gradual convergence towards the principles of the EU internal electricity and gas markets, the development of energy networks including facilitation of natural gas transportation between Egypt and the EU via the Arab gas pipeline, regional cooperation, and enhancing energy efficiency and the use of renewable energy as well as cooperation in the oil and gas industry, |
— |
strengthen the environmental dimension of public policy and EU-Egypt cooperation: promotion of sustainable development policies and actions, including on climate change, desertification and air, soil and water pollution, |
— |
strengthen links and cooperation in ‘people-to-people’ contacts in youth and sports, culture and audiovisual areas and civil society. |
Cooperation and actions under this Plan shall be consistent with national laws and legislations.
Progress in meeting these priorities will be jointly evaluated in sub-committees established by the Association Agreement. On this basis, the EU and Egypt will review the content of the Action Plan and decide on its adaptation and renewal. After three years, Egypt and the EU will consider future prospect of the development of bilateral relations, including the possibility of new contractual links.
2. Actions
2.1. Enhanced political dialogue, economic and social development and reform
2.1.1. Enhanced political dialogue and reform
(a) |
Enhance the effectiveness of institutions entrusted with strengthening democracy and the rule of law:
Consolidate the independent and effective administration of justice and improve prison conditions:
|
(b) |
Rights of women and children
Freedom of association and of expression and pluralism of the media
Fight against discrimination, intolerance, racism and xenophobia
Fundamental social rights and core labour standards
|
(c) |
Strengthen the political dialogue and cooperation on foreign and security policy:
|
(d) |
|
(e) |
|
2.1.2. Economic development and reform
(a) |
Consolidate progress made with a view to improving macroeconomic stability and to promoting growth and employment.
|
(b) |
|
(c) |
Promotion of sustainable development
|
(d) |
Pursue the modernisation and restructuring of agriculture and fisheries Agriculture
Fisheries
|
(e) |
|
2.1.3. Social development
(a) |
Enhance Social development in particular through dialogue and cooperation
Strengthening socio-economic cohesion of Egyptians regions
|
(b) |
Support and enhance cooperation in reforming and upgrading the education and training systems and work within the framework of Egyptian plans towards convergence with EU and international standards and practice.
|
(c) |
Support and cooperate in the development of health sector reform
Increase the level of health security, health information and knowledge
Communicable Disease Surveillance and Health Security (Epidemiological Surveillance and Control)
|
2.2. Trade related issues, market and regulatory reform
2.2.1. Movement of goods
(a) |
|
(b) |
|
(c) |
|
(d) |
|
(e) |
Increase food safety for Egyptian and European consumers. Reforms and modernisation of the sanitary and phytosanitary sectors.
|
2.2.2. Right of establishment, Company law and services
(a) |
|
(b) |
Financial services
|
2.2.3. Regional cooperation
— |
Further develop existing regional cooperation arrangements and support the development of new initiatives and policies promoting regional integration and cooperation, based on the priorities of the relevant regional partners, |
— |
develop south-south trade including support for the implementation of the Agadir Agreement, and promote trade and investment among the regional partners. |
2.2.4. Other key areas
(a) |
|
(b) |
Antitrust
State aids
|
(c) |
|
(d) |
Adoption of statistical methods compatible with European and international standards in relevant statistical areas.
|
(e) |
|
(f) |
|
(g) |
|
2.3. Transport, energy and environment
(a) |
Cooperation in the transport sector (maritime, aviation, road, rail and inland waterway) Implement a national transport strategy, including transport infrastructure development and transport sector reforming.
Regional element
Implement selected measures and reforms in the road and rail transport sectors
Regional element
Implement selected measures and reforms in the maritime and inland water transport sectors
Regional element
Implement selected measures and reforms in the aviation sector
Regional element
|
(b) |
Cooperate in the development of an overall long term energy strategy converging towards EU energy policy objectives.
Cooperation on electricity and gas markets
Regional element
Progress on energy networks
Progress on energy efficiency and the use of renewable energy sources
|
(c) |
Improve environmental performance and enhance good environmental governance
Take active action for prevention of deterioration of the environment, protection of human health, and achievement of rational use of natural resources, in line with the Johannesburg Plan of Implementation
Enhance cooperation on environmental issues
|
2.4. Migration, social integration, justice and security
Further develop cooperation between Egypt and EU Member States judicial and law enforcement authorities
(a) |
|
(b) |
|
(c) |
Exchange information on ratification and implementation of the UN Convention against Corruption and other relevant international instruments to which either side is party.
|
(d) |
Enhance border management cooperation between Egypt and the EU Member States.
|
(e) |
Ensure an effective management of migration flows
Cooperate in combating illegal immigration into Egypt and the European Union
Improve cooperation regarding readmission
Facilitate the movement of persons
Asylum issues
|
(f) |
Enhance international cooperation in accordance with the UN Convention against trans-national organised crime and its protocols on smuggling of migrants and trafficking in persons and on illicit manufacturing and trafficking of firearms.
Cooperate in the fight against cyber crime
Reinforce the fight against trafficking in human beings, especially women and children, and smuggling of illegal migrants, as well as activities to prevent trafficking in human beings and to reintegrate victims.
|
(g) |
Continue the fight against drug trafficking, including the trafficking of essential chemicals and precursors, and against drug abuse in particular through prevention and rehabilitation, in accordance with the 1988 UN Convention on Illicit Traffic of Narcotic and Psychotropic Substances and with Article 58 of the AA.
|
(h) |
Strengthen efforts and cooperation in the fight against money laundering, financial and economic crime.
|
(i) |
In the framework of the counter-terrorism related UN resolutions and conventions
|
2.5. Science and technology, research and development, information society and audiovisual cooperation
(a) |
Science and technology, research and development Accelerate the integration of Egypt into the European Research Area and the Community Framework Programme
Develop the scientific and technological capacity with a focus on the use of RTD results by the industrial and SME sector
Promote the integration of Egypt into scientific high-level exchanges
|
(b) |
Further progress in electronic communications policy and regulation
Further progress in the development and use of Information Society applications
|
(c) |
Create conditions for an environment favouring cooperation in the audiovisual area Work towards the development of a transparent, efficient and predictable regulatory system including through the establishment of an independent regulatory authority in the audiovisual sector.
|
2.6. People-to-people contacts
(a) |
Enhance cultural cooperation between Egypt and EU and its Member States
Dialogue between cultures
|
(b) |
Enhance cooperation in the field of youth and sport
|
(c) |
|
3. Joint monitoring
The Action Plan will be submitted for formal adoption to the EU-Egypt Association Council.
The Action Plan will give orientation for the cooperation between the EU and Egypt.
The joint bodies established under the Association Agreement will advance and monitor the implementation of the Action Plan on the basis of regular reports on its implementation.
A first review of the implementation of the Action Plan will be undertaken within two years of its adoption.
The Action Plan can be regularly amended and/or updated jointly to reflect progress in addressing the priorities.
GLOSSARY
EASA |
: |
European Aviation Safety Agency |
ECAA |
: |
Egyptian Civil Aviation Authority |
EUMEDIS |
: |
Euro-Mediterranean Information Society |
FATF |
: |
Financial Action Task Force on Money Laundering |
FDI |
: |
Foreign Direct Investments |
FEMIP |
: |
Facility for Euro-Mediterranean Investment and Partnership |
GATS |
: |
General Agreement on Trade in Services |
GFCM |
: |
General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean |
ICAO |
: |
International Civil Aviation Organisation |
ICT |
: |
Information and Communication Technology |
IPPC |
: |
International Plant Protection Convention |
ILO |
: |
International Labour Organisation |
IMO |
: |
International Maritime Organisation |
IPR |
: |
Intellectual Property Rights |
ISPS |
: |
International Ship and Port Facility Security |
IST |
: |
Information Society Technologies |
JAA |
: |
Joint Aviation Authorities |
MARPOL |
: |
International Convention for the Prevention of Marine Pollution from Ships |
NCHR |
: |
National Council for Human Rights |
NEPAD |
: |
New Partnership for Africa’s Development |
OECD |
: |
Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development |
OIE |
: |
Organisation Mondiale de la Santé Animale |
R&D |
: |
Research and Development |
RDT-I |
: |
Research, Technological Development and Innovation |
SME |
: |
Small and Medium Enterprises |
SOLAS |
: |
International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea |
TAIEX |
: |
Technical Assistance Information Exchange |
TRIPS |
: |
Trade-Related aspects of Intellectual Property rights |
TVET |
: |
Technical Vocational Education and Training |
UNSC |
: |
United Nations Security Council |
VTMIS |
: |
Vessel Traffic Management and Information Systems |
WMD |
: |
Weapons of Mass Destruction |
WTO |
: |
World Trade Organisation |
(1) For any sectors which should participate in the internal market, there would have to be in force a State aids control regime and legislation meeting the requirements of the EU acquis, including a system of prohibition and ex-ante control of State aids which distort trade between the EU and Egypt.
(2) This indent should not be interpreted in a way that may imply interferences in cases before courts.