11985I/PRO/12

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Protocol 12

on the regional development of Spain

THE HIGH CONTRACTING PARTIES ,

Desiring to settle certain special problems of concern to Spain and ,

HAVING AGREED THE FOLLOWING PROVISIONS :

Recall that the fundamental objectives of the European Economic Community include the steady improvement of the living standards and working conditions of the peoples of the Member States and the harmonious development of their economies by reducing the differences existing between the various regions and the backwardness of the less-favoured regions ;

Take note of the fact that the Spanish Government has embarked upon the implementation of a policy of regional development designed in particular to stimulate economic growth in the less-developed regions and areas of Spain ;

Recognize it to be in their common interest that the objectives of this policy be attained ;

Agree , in order to help the Spanish Government to accomplish this task , to recommend that the Community institutions use all the means and procedures laid down by Community rules , particularly by making adequate use of the Community resources intended for the realization of the Community's abovementioned objectives ;

Recognize in particular that , in the application of Articles 92 and 93 of the EEC Treaty , it will be necessary to take into account the objectives of economic expansion and the raising of the standard of living of the population of the less-developed regions and areas of Spain .