THE EUROPEAN COUNCIL

CORFU24-25 JUNE 1994

Documents in the dossier include:

Corfu European CouncilReproduced from the Bulletin of the European Communities No. 6/1994

Corfu European Council.

Corfu, 24 and 25 June

1.1. The meeting of Heads of State or Govern~ment held in Corfu on 24 and 25 June waschaired by Mr Papandreou, President of theEuropean Council and Prime Minister ofGreece, and attended by Mr Delors, President ofthe Commission, and Mr Van den Broek, Mem-ber of the Commission, and, for the discussionson the economic policy guidelines, by Mr Chris-tophersen, Vice~President of the Commission.The meeting was preceded by an exchange ofviews with Mr Klepsch, President of the Euro-pean Parliament, on the main items on theagenda and on the need for constructive cooper-ation between the institutions.

1.2. The White Paper on growth, competitive-ness and employment and the plan of actionadopted by the Brussels European Council(--+ point 1.2. 1) provided the main focus for dis~cussion at Corfu. Particular emphasis was placedon six points which should provide a new impe-tus to the follow-up debate on the White Paper:encouraging reforms in the Member States tomake the employment systems more efficient;introducing specific measures to exploit fullythe employment potential of small businesses;reinforcing the coordination of research policy;

implementing the high-priority trans-Europeantransport and energy projects without delay;making full use of the possibilities and opportu-nitiesoffered by the information society; andencouraging the new model of sustainable de-velopment, including the environmental dimen-sion. A list of II high-priority trans-Europeantransport projects was adopted together with alist of eight priority energy projects. The infor-mation society was given a further boost, nota-blyby the decision to set up a permanent coor-dination instrument with a person responsible atministerial level appointed in each MemberState. The European Council also endorsed theeconomic policy guidelines presented by theCouncil.

In the field of external relations, the EuropeanCouncil confmned its commitment to the devel-

Bull. ED 6- 1994

opment of existing links with the Mediterraneancountries and to the peace process in the MiddleEast and stressed the importance of the EuropeAgreements with the countries of Central andEastern Europe. It welcomed the signing of thePartnership and Cooperation Agreement withUkraine but expressed concern at the problemsof nuclear safety there. It also welcomed the sig~nificant progress achieved in respect of theapplications by Cyprus and Malta for accessionto the Union.

Moving on to the common foreign and securitypolicy, the European Council made statementson the former Yugoslavia, Rwanda, the pact onstability in Europe and the non-proliferation ofnuclear weapons.

As regards cooperation in the fields of justiceand home affairs, the European Council wel-comed the joint Franco-German initiativeagainst racism and xenophobia and the Commis-sion s initiatives on immigration, asylum anddrugs.

On the institutional front, the European Councildecided to set up a Reflection Group to preparefor the 1996 intergovernmental conference. TheGroup will include two representatives of theEuropean Parliament.

The Corfu European Council was also the occa-sion for the signing of the Acts of Accession ofAustria, Sweden, Finland and Norway. Thesigning of these Acts and the participation of theHeads of State or Government of the four coun-tries in the proceedings of the European Councilconstituted an important landmark in the historyof European integration, reflecting the dyna-mism and attraction of the European Union andconfirming the importance of its role on theinternational scene. Corfu was also the occasionfor the signing of the Partnership and Cooper-ation Agreement with Russia. The signing ofthis Agreement intensifying cooperation be-tween the European Union and Russia marks animportant event in the efforts to promote peace,stability and prosperity on the continent of Eu-rope.

Conclusions of the Presidency

Conclusions of thePresidency

Introduction1.3. The signing at Corfu of the Treaty on Accessionand the participation of the Heads of State or Govern-ment from Austria, Sweden, Finland and Norway inthe work of the European Council constitute animportant new landmark in the history of Europeanintegration.

The acceding countries will be joining a EuropeanUnion faced with rapid development after the entryinto force of the Treaty on European Union and withmultiple demands addressed to it to play an ever-

increasing role in promoting security and prosperityon our continent and beyond. The preparatory processis soon to be launched for a new intergovernmental

conference with a view to making the European Unionbetter able to confront the challenges of the 21 st Cen-tury, including those arising from enlargement of theUnion to the east and to the south.

The Austrian people have already confmned theirGovernment's wish to participate in this unique en-deavour, where independent and sovereign Statesdecide freely to exercise in common some of theircompetences, in full respect of each country s history,culture and traditions. The European Council hopesthat the decision of the population in the other candi-date countries will be the same.

The new Member States will be in a position to maketheir influence felt in these endeavours, both with

regard to day-to-day policy and on the long-term stra-tegic choices to be made. The European Council wel-comes in this connection the additional impetus com-ing from these countries which are in the vanguard ofthe efforts to promote environmental and social pro-tection, transparency and open government, areas con-sidered essential by a large part of the Union s citi-zens during the recent election campaign for theEuropean Parliament and echoed by the President ofParliament in his intervention before the EuropeanCouncil.

The European Council, for its part, stresses that open-ness and subsidiarity are essential concepts whichrequire further elaboration. The Union must be builtwith the support of its citizens.

The European elections have also underlined that theUnion will be judged by its citizens on the contribu-tion it makes in the fight against unemployment and inthe promotion of the internal and external security ofthe Union.

The signing of the Partnership and CooperationAgreement with Russia on the occasion of the Euro-

pean Council at Corfu marks an important event in theefforts to promote peace, stability and prosperity onthis continent. Through this agreement Russia and theEuropean Union, both of which have major responsib-ilities in these areas, will be able to intensify theircooperation in a large number of fields of mutual ben~efit to their peoples.

The past six months have seen the implementation ofthe new institutional provisions of the Treaty on Euro-pean Union, including the establishment of the Com~mittee of the Regions. From now on this Committeewill make certain that the interests of the regions arefully taken into account in the decision-making proce~dure of the Union.

The European Council heard a statement from thePresident of the European Parliament on the mainsubjects dealt with by the European Council and onthe necessity of constructive cooperation between theinstitutions and in particular between the Council andParliament. Like Mr Klepsch, the European Councilwelcomed the progress made in this direction in theimplementation of the new procedures of the Treaty.

White Paper

References:Conclusions of the Brussels European Council: Bull.

12- 1993, points 1.3 to 1.7Commission White Paper on growth, competitive-

ness and employment: The challenges and ways forwardinto the 21st century: COM(93) 700; Bull. 12-1993,point 1.2.44; Supplement 6/93 Bull.

Final Act concluding the Uruguay Round negotia-tions: COM(94) 143; Bull. 4-1994, point 1.3.

1.4. In December 1993 the European Council in Brus-sels adopted a plan of action based on the Commis-sion White Paper on a medium-term strategy forgrowth, competitiveness and employment. It under-lined that a healthy and an open economy as well asan economy geared to solidarity were essential pre-requisites for the successful implementation of thisplan.

Signs of economic recovery are now being confmnedand non-inflationary economic growth is returning.The European Council considers it essential that theimprovement in the economic situation should notlead to a slackening of efforts to promote structuraladjustment in Europe but should instead be exploi~ted to speed up essential reforms, particularly in thefield of employment, where the situation is still veryworrying.

The successful conclusion of the Uruguay Roundwithin the guidelines set out by the European Council

Bull. EU 6- 1994

Conclusions of the Presidency

has created an international trade policy environmentwhich can provide effective support for economicrecovery and job creation. The European Council callson the Community institutions and Member States todo everything necessary to complete ratification intime to ensure the entry into force before 1 January

1995. The European Union will play an active role inefforts to ensure that the new World Trade Orga-nization can carry out effectively its task of ensuringobservance of the rules drawn up jointly and promoteprogress in combating unfair trade conditions. Envi-ronmental and social issues will also have to be dis-cussed in this context.

The European Council, on the basis of a report fromthe President of the Commission, had an in-depth dis-cussion on the different elements of the action plandecided at the Brussels European Council.

The European Council puts particular emphasis on thefollowing points which should give a new impetus tothe follow-up debate on the White Paper:

0 encouragement of reforms in Member Statesintended to improve the efficiency of the systems ofemployment;0 specific meaSUres with regard to fully exploiting

the employment potential of small and medium-sizedenterprises;0 reinforced coordination of research policy;

0 rapid implementation of high-priority trans-Euro-pean projects in the fields of transport and energy;0 fully exploiting the possibilities and opportunitiesoffered by the information society;0 encouragement of the new model of sustainable de~velopment, including the environmental dimension.

Improving the employment situationReferences:

Progress report on employment: results ofMr Flynn s tour of the capitals: point 1.2.2 ofthis Bulle-tin; Supplement 2/94 Bull.

Council agreement on a common position on the pro-posal for a Council Decision establishing an action pro-gramme for the implementation of a European Commu-nity vocational training policy (Leonardo da Vinci):point 1.2. 198 of this Bulletin

Council agreement on a common position on the pro-posal for a Parliament and Council Decision establish-ing a Community action programme in the field of edu-cation (Socrates): point 1.2. 197 of this Bulletin

Council agreement on a common position onthe proposal for a Parliament and Council Deci-sion on the third phase of the 'Youth for Europeprogramme: point 1.2. 199 of this Bulletin

/.5. A sound macroeconomic environment is a sinequa non for success in the fight against unemploy-ment (-- point 1.9).

Bull. EU 6- 1994

The resumption of economic growth will not of itselfsuffice to settle the problem of unemployment, whichrequires structural reforms both at the level of Mem-ber States and of the Union.

The European Council considers that increases in pro-ductivity for the rest of this century should be dedi-cated primarily to investments and jobs. This objec~

tive should be implemented in a spirit of solidarityand taking special account of those in society who arein the weakest position. The European Councilstresses the need to maximize the potential of humanresources.

The European Council reviewed on the basis of areport from the Commission the initiatives under wayin the Member States in accordance with the generalobjectives defined in December 1993. The EuropeanCouncil noted progress in these areas but consideredthat the efforts undertaken so far, though appreciablestill fall a long way short of what is necessary. Itencourages Member States, in order to win the battlefor jobs, to take further steps to implement the objec-tives set out in December. In particular:0 with regard to education and training, the EuropeanCouncil concurs with the Commission s recommenda-tion that a more systematic and comprehensiveapproach will be needed in many Member States, inparticular with regard to continuing training; at theCommunity level, the European Council welcomesthe agreement in principle by the Council on the twonew education and training programmes (Leonardoand Socrates) and invites the Council and the Euro-pean Parliament to finalize the decisions on this pro-gramme before the end of the year;0 as regards measures to encourage employment, theEuropean Council notes the Commission recommen-dation concerning the reduction of non~wage labourcosts, mainly on the less-skilled. In this frameworkthe European Council underlines that further steps

should be pursued, consistent with the objective ofbudgetary consolidation.

Accordingly, the European Council takes note of thediscussion on the CO/energy tax issues and under-lines the need to ensure that environmental costs arebetter reflected throughout the economy;0 as regards the promotion of economically sound

formulas for the organization of work, the EuropeanCouncil notes the need to remove obstacles to part-time work and in general to promote new forms of or-ganization of work;0 with regard to developing new employment in con-nection with meeting new requirements linked to thequality of life and protection of the environment, theEuropean Council notes that a number of initiativeshave been taken but many of the new areas of jobgrowth that were identified in the White Paper remainto be exploited. The European Council underlines theimportance of the study to be prepared by the Com-

Conclusions of the Presidency

mission before the next European Council on this sub-ject;

0 with regard to young people, the European Councilconsiders that additional emphasis should be given tothose young people who are facing the greatest diffi-culties. It attaches high importance to ensuring as faras possible that young people can move from educa~tion into work; in this context it welcomes the Com~mission s 'Youth start' programme.

To support these efforts the European Council invitesthe Council (social affairs), the Ecofin Council andthe Commission, on the basis of information collectedby the Commission, to keep progress in this area un-der constant review. The Council will report to theEuropean Council in Essen on national experienceswhich have had positive effects on employment, ana~lysing the reasons for their success, and define appro-priate policy recommendations for adapting currentpolicies.

Efforts to promote youth employment and to combatlong-term unemployment should be given particularpriority in the work of the Council.

Finally, the European Council invites the Commissionto renew its efforts towards assuring the necessarysocial dialogue making full use of the new possibil-ities available in the Treaty on European Union and inparticular of the provisions of the protocol annexedto it.

The internal market, competitiveness

and small and medium-sized enterprises

References:Council agreement on a common position on the pro-

posal fora Council Directive on the establishment ofEuropean committees or procedures in Community-scale undertakings and groups of undertakings for thepurposes of informing and consulting employees: point1.2. 190 of this Bulletin

Proposal for a Council Regulation establishing aEuropean Agency for Safety and Health at Work: point1.2. 191 of this Bulletin

Council Directive on the protection of young peopleat work: point 1.2. 192 of this Bulletin

Commission communication on the implementationof an integrated programme for SMEs and the craft sec-tor: COM(94) 207; point 1.2.79 of this Bulletin

Parliament and Council Decision 1110/94/EC con-

cerning the fourth framework programme of EuropeanCommunity activities in the fields of research, techno-logical development and demonstration (1994-98): Bull.4-1994, point 1.2.

1.6. The smooth operation of the internal market isessential if the economy is to be competitive anddynamic. This means that the delays in transposing

certain important Directives on public contracts, in-surance, intellectual property and company law atnational level must be remedied. Furthermore, it isessential that the basic principles of the single marketshould be extended to those areas , such as energy andtelecommunications, which are still only partlycovered by it while ensuring that the public serviceand town and country requirements in these sectorsare also safeguarded.

The single market is implemented with due regard toenvironmental problems. The safegnard ofirnportantnational environmental protection measures shall besecured in this context.

The single market is a fundamental aspect of Commu-nity construction but it is not an end in itself, as wasalready pointed out in the conclusions of the RhodesEuropean Council in 1988. It should be used to servethe welfare of all, in accordance with the tradition ofsocial progress established in the history of Europe.The policy of the Union, alongside the policies of theMember States, should foster the affmnation of thissocial dimension. In the view of the Member Statesconcerned, the recent agreement in the Council underthe provisions of the Social Protocol concerning infor-mation and consultation of workers in multinationalenterprises constitutes significant progress towards therealization of this objective. Further advances on thesame basis, including efforts aimed at avoiding socialexclusion, are essential in a society in rapid trans-formation. The European Council also welcomed therecent agreements in the Council on the protection ofyoung workers as well as the creation of the Agencyfor Health and Safety at Work.

Small and medium-sized enterprises make a majorcontribution to growth and job creation and theyshould be able to benefit more from all the opportuni-ties offered by the single market. The European Coun-cil welcomed the implementation by the Council of itsorientations concerning interest-rate subsidies forSMEs and also the Commission decision to devoteECU 1 billion for the period 1994-99 to a Communityinitiative programme to help small and medium-sizedenterprises adapt to the internal market and the newcompetitive environment. It also noted with interestthe recent Commission initiative for an integrated pro-gramme in favour of small and medium-sized enter-prises, including action to simplify legislation andreduce administrative burdens on such enterprises,and also the initiative of the Portuguese Prime Minis-ter on the local dimension of the internal market andthe initiatives taken by Ireland in the areas of socialpartnership and local development. The EuropeanCouncil considers that local development initiativesoffer considerable potential for reinforcing the econo-mic and social fabric of the European Union and forcreating jobs. They are an essential element .of thenew model of development mentioned in the WhitePaper and will help to preserve cultural diversity

Bull. EU 6- 1994

Conclusions of the Presidency

within the Union. The E"Uropean Council notes theCommission s intention, within the framework of thereport on new potential sources of employment to besubmitted to the European Council in Essen, to drawup a detailed inventory of the various actions at Com-munity level to foster local development and localemployment initiatives, particularly those concerningmicro-enterprises and craft industries. This inventorywill be accompanied by the proposals deemed neces-sary to enhance the consistency and the effectivenessof those actions.

Regarding scientific and technological research, theEuropean Council expects that the recent decision onthe ambitious 1994-99 framework programme, to

which considerable funding has been allocated, willbe followed up without delay by .the rapid adoption ofspecific sector programmes. In this context the infor-mation sector and biotechnology are of partic"Ularimportance. It al/'o invites the Council to pursue amore systematic coordination of Community andnational research policies and invites the Commissionto take any useful initiatives to promote suchcoor"dination.

Lastly, the European Council expressed its convictionthat the elimination of unnecessary legal and adminis-trative burdens on business and the simplification ofCommunity and national legislation are importantaspects of improving the competitiveness of the Euro-pean economy. It welcomes the fact that the Commis-sion is pursuing its efforts to simplify existing Com~munity legislation and will reinforce its costlbenefitexamination of proposed Cornm"Unity legislation. TheCommission also intends to launch a.process of exam-ining the impact of existing Community and nationallegislation on employment and competitiveness. Withregard to these latter aspects .the European Councilwelcomes the establishment by the Commission of agroup composed of independent personalities to assistit in this task and attaches high importance to its work.

As regards subsidiarity, the Council welcomes theprogress made so far by the Commission in acting onthe report of December 1993 and notes the Commis-sion s undertaking to give a full report to the Euro-pean Council in Essen.

Trans-European networks for transportenergy and environmental projects

References:Interim report of the group of personal representa-

tives of the Heads of State or Government on trans-European networks: point 1.2.7 of this Bulletin; Supple-ment 2/94 Bull.

Commission communication on financing the trans-European networks: point 1.2.8 of this Bulletin

l. 7. The single market will produce all the expected

positive effects to benefit citizens and firms only if it

BulL EU6- 1994

can rely on effective trans-European networks fortransport and energy. The European Council wel-comed the work achieved so far by the Group chairedby Mr Christophersen in accordance with the mandategiven last December.

On the basis of the Group s report, the EuropeanCouncil has agreed on a first priority list of 11 majortransport projects, set out in Annex I. As far as the en-ergy sector is concerned the European Council tooknote of the projects listed in Annex II and requestedthe Christophersen Group to continue its work exam-ining in particular their economic viability. The Mem-ber States involved are asked to make every effort toensure that all the transport projects whose prep-aration is sufficiently advanced are started "Up immedi-ately and that the others are started up as far as pos~

sible during 1996 at the latest by acceleratingadministrative, regulatory and legal procedures. TheEuropean Council invites the Commission to take alluseful initiatives in this respect including the conVen-ing where appropriate of project seminars aimed at .co-ordinating the activities of all parties involved.

The European Council also attaches importance to theother major transport projects which are set out in theinterim report.

The European Council calls on the ChristophersenGroup together with the representatives of the acced-ing States to continue their work on the basis of themandate proposed in the Group s report studying fur-ther the extension of the trans-European networks toneighbouring countries (in particular to Central andEast European countries and to the Mediterraneancountries) and to prepare a final report to the Euro-

pean Council in Essen. It also asks the ChristophersenGroup to examine the question of relevant networks inthe field of the environment.

As regards financing of networks, the European Coun-cil confmns that measures will be taken - if provednecessary in order that priority projects do not runinto financial obstacles which would jeopardize theirimplementation. It noted the conclusions of the EcofinCouncil and the studies carried out by the Commis-sion. This question will continue to be examined inthe Christophersen Group and in the Ecofin Counciluntil the Essen European Council, taking account ofthe specific characteristics of each project, the leadingrole of private funding and the judicious use of exist~

ing Community resources.

The Council will be informed if it appears that theachievement of certain projects is threatened for

financial reasons linked to insufficient profitability for example, because of the length of investments orenvironmental constraints. The Council will immedi~ately consider with the Commission and the Em theappropriate responses, within the limits set by the

financial perspective.

Conclusions of the Presidency

The information societyReference: Report of the high-level group on Europeand the global infonnation society - Recommendationsto the European Council: point 1. 9 of this Bulletin;Supplement 2/94 Bull.

1.8. The European Council took note of the reportfrom the group of leading figures representing the in-dustry, operators and users who have been examiningthe various aspects of this question under the chair-manship of Mr Bangernann. The European Council

considers that the Current unprecedented technologicalrevolution in the area of information opens up vastpossibilities for economic progress, employment andthe quality of life, while simultaneously representing amajor challenge. It is primarily up to the private sectorto respond to this challenge, by evaluating what is atstake and taking the necessary initiatives, notably inthe matter of financing. The European Council, likethe Commission, considers that the Community andits Member States do, however, have .an importantrole to play in backing up this development by givingpolitical impetus, creating a clear and stable regu-latory framework (notably as regards access to mar-kets, compatibility between networks, intellectual pro-perty rights, data protection and copyright) and bysetting an example in areas which come under theiraegis. The European Council agreed in general withthe areas of application set out by the Group (tele-working, distance leaming, network for universitiesand research centres, telematic services for SMEs,road-traffic management, air-traffic control, health-care networks, electronic tendering, administrativenetworks and city information highways). Also theimportance of linguistic and cultural aspects of theinformation society was stressed by the EuropeanCounciL

The European Council, having noted the findings ofthe Bangemann Group, considers that the importanceand complexity of the issues raised by the new infor-mation society justify the setting-up of a permanentcoordination instrument to ensure that the various par-ties involved public and private are workingalong the same lines. This coordination instrument, tobe set up as soon as possible, should be based on theappointment in each Member State of a person re-sponsible at ministerial level for coordinating allaspects of the subject (political, financial and regu-latory) with a view inter alia to ensuring a coor-dinated approach in the Council. The Commissionwill act similarly.

At the Community level, the necessary regulatoryframework has to be established as soon as possible.The European Council invites the Council and theEuropean Parliament to adopt before the end of theyear measures in the areas already covered by existingproposals. It also invites the Commission to establishas soon as possible a programme covering the remain-ing measures needed at the Community level.

The European Council will assess progress at itsmeeting in Essen.

The macroeconomic environmentReference: Commission recommendations for thebroad guidelines of the economic policy of the MemberStates and the Commuuity drawn up in conformity withArticle 103(2) of the Treaty establishing the EuropeanCommuuity: COM(94) 2n; point 1.2. 12 of this Bulletin

1.9. Regarding major economic trends, the EuropeanCouncil notes fIrSt of all that the Member States havebroadly followed the guidelines laid down by theEuropean Council in December 1993. Inflation, whichis in the process of being overcome, a return to ex-change-rate stability and an incipient reduction ofpublic deficits are creating a sound basis for futuregrowth and favouring the convergence of economiestowards the criteria laid down in the Maastricht Treatyfor the final stage of EMU. These efforts must be con-tinued in order to consolidate the fall in short~tenn

interest rates and to reverse the recent upward trend oflong-term interest rates , all of which are essential con-ditions for stimulating investment and creating jobs.

For all these reasons the European Council endorsesthe economic policy guidelines contained in the reportsubmitted by the Ecofin Council in accordance with

Article 103 of theEC Treaty. It invites the Council tofinalize the guidelines in the light of the conclusionsof this European Council with regard to the imple-mentation of the White Paper in general.

Common foreign and security policy

Relations with the Mediterraneancountries

References:Draft Association Agreement with Israel: Bull. 12-

1993, point 1.3.New draft agreement with Morocco: Bull. 12-1993

point 1.3.33

New draft agreement with Tuuisia: Bull. 12- 1993,point 1.3.

EC-Egypt Cooperation Council: Bull. 5-1994, point1.3.43

Visit to the Commission by Mr Ahmed Benbitour:BuIL5- 1994, point 1.3.41; visit by the troika to Algeria:Bull. 5- 1994, point 1.3.

1.10. The European Council conrmns the importanceit attaches to the close links already existing with itsMediterranean partners and its wish to develop themstill further so that the Mediterranean area maybecome an area of cooperation guaranteeing peace, se-curity, stability and well-being.

Bull. EU 6- 1994

Conclusions of the Presidency

The European Council welcomes the progress made inthe negotiations under way with Israel for the conclu-sion of a new agreement with a wider scope of appli-cation than the 1975 agreements and providing for acloser relationship between the parties on the basis ofreciprocity and common interest. It considers that thisnew agreement should be supplemented by a separateagreement on scientific and technological cooperation.It also asks the Council and the Commission to dotheir utmost to ensure that these two agreements rnaybe completed before the end of the year.

The European Council .considersthat these neW con-tractuallinks will be strengthened by the developmentof regional cooperation involving Israel .and the Pal-estinian side.

The European Council notes with satisfaction the pro-gress made in the negotiations with Morocco and Tu-nisia on new partnership agreements. It asks theCouncil and the Commission to do their utmost toensure that negotiations are completed before the endof the year.

The European Council also welcomes the opening ofexploratory conversations between the Commissionand the Egyptian authorities on a new partnershipagreement.

The European Council expresses the wish of the Euro-pean Union to develop existing cooperation relationswith the Mashreq countries, taking into account thespecific situation of each country.

The European Council is following closely the sit-uation in Algeria. It condemns all acts of terrorismand violations of human rights, both against Algeriansand foreign citizens.

The European Council encourages the rigorous pursuitof the national dialogue and the process of structuralreform which is essential for the liberalization of theAlgerian economy and its better integration into theworld economy. The European Council notes with ap-proval the recent Ecofin decision to consider favour-

ably a proposal for further assistance of the order ofECU 200 million, subject to Algeria s continuing

implementation of its IMF programme and the posi~

tion of the Loan Guarantee Fund. Given the particularimportance of this issue, the European Council invitesthe EcofinCouncil to examine a Commission pro-posal very soon.

The European Council hopes that the internal situationin Algeria will improve so that relations with Algeriacan develop in the framework of this new approachbased on partnership.

The European Council stresses the value for all Medi-terranean partners of jointly examining political, eco-

Bull. EU 6- 1994

nomic and social problems to which solutions may bemore effectively sought in the context of regionalcooperation. The European Council has given a man-date to the Council to evaluate, together with the

Commission, the global policy of the European Unionin the Mediterranean region and possible initiatives tostrengthen this policy in the short and medium term,bearing in mind the possibility of convening a .confe-rence attended by the European Union and its Medi-terranean partners.

This evaluation should prepare the ground for deci-sions at the European Council in Essen.

Applicant countries

References:Draft fourth financial protocol between the European

Community and Cyprus: point 1.3.38 of this BulletinDraft fourth financial protocol between the European

Community and Malta: point 1.3.39 of this BulletinCouncil conclusions on the report by the European

Union observer for Cyprus: point 1.3.37 of this BulletinBungary s application to join the European Union:

Bull. 4-1994, point 1.3.Poland' s application to join the European Union:

Bull. 4-1994, point 1.3.Europe (Association) Agreement between the Euro-

pean Communities and their Member States and Poland:OJ L 348, 31.12.1993; Bull. 12- 1993, point 1.3.

Europe (Association) Agreement between the Euro-pean Communities and their Member States and Bun-gary: OJ L 348, 31.12. 1993; Bull. 12- 1993, point 1.3.

1.11. The European Council welcomes the significantprogress made regarding the application by Cyprusand Malta for accession to the European Union andconsiders that an essential stage in the preparation

process could be regarded as completed.

The European Council asks the Council' and the Com-mission to do their utmost to ensure that the negotia~

tions with Malta and Cyprus with a view to the con-clusion of the fourth financial protocols, intended in

particular to support the efforts of Malta and Cyprustowards integration into the European Union, arebrought to a rapid conclusion.

The European Council notes that, under these condi-tions, the next phase of enlargement of the Union willinvolve Cyprus and Malta.

The European Council, recalling relevant decisions ofthe Council of 4 October 1993, 18 April 1994 and 13June 1994, reaffmns that any solution of the Cyprusproblem must respect the sovereignty, independence,territorial integrity and unity of the country, in accord-ance with the relevant United Nations resolutions andhigh-level agreements.

Conc1usionsofthe Presidency

The European Council welcomes the fact that the Eu-rope Agreements with Hungary and Poland are now inforce and that the - first Association Council meetingsat ministerial level with those countries have alreadytaken place.

The European Council notes with satisfaction the sub-mission by Hungary and Poland on 31 March and4 April 1994 respectively of their applications tobecome members of the European Union. In this re-spect, it recalls the decisions of the Council to referthe two applications to the Commission in order toprepare its respective opinions.

Concerning Turkey, the European Council notes theconvening of the EC- Turkey Association Council todeal in particular with the achievement of the customsunion foreseen in the Association Agreement of 1964.

Middle Ea$t peace process

References:Israel-Palestine Agreement: Bull. 5- 1994, point

1.3.46Council Decision 941276/CFSP on a joint action in

support of the Middle East peace process: OJ L 119,1994; Bull. 4-1994, point 1.3.

/.12. The European Council warmly welcomes theCairo Agreement between Israel and the PLOof4 May 1994 as an important step towards the fullimplementation of the Declaration of Principles. Itpays tribute to the determination of both sides to

achieve a just, lasting and comprehensive peace in theregion. The European Council welcomes the contribu~tion already made by Member States of the EuropeanUnion to the Temporary International Presence inHebron.

The European Council looks forward to the establish-ment of the Palestinian Authority in the Gaza Stripand Jericho, which should lead to the early extensionof its responsibilities to the rest of the Occupied Terri-tories. Recalling the adoption by the Council on19 April of a joint action in support of the Middle Eastpeace process, the European Council welcomes thecreation of a Palestinian police force and restates theUnion s willingness to provide further assistance tomove the peace process towards a successful conclu-sion.

Central and Eastern EuropeReferences:

Conclusions of the Copenhagen European Council:Bull. 6- 1993 , point 1.26

Council conclusions on reinforcement of the politicaldialogue with the associated countries of Central andEastern Europe; Bull. 3- 1994, point 1.3.

Presidency press statement concerning the Latvian

citi:zenship bill: point 1.3. 12 of this Bulletin Draft Eu-

rope Agreement with Slovenia: Bull. 4-1994, point1.3.33

Drafts of new trade agreements between the Euro"

pean Community and Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania:Bull. 112-1994, point 1.3.39; points 1.3.24 and 1.3.25 ofthis Bulletin

/.13. At the Copenhagen meeting in June 1993, theEuropean Council decided that the associated coun-tries of Central and Eastern Europe which wished todo so could become members of the European Unionas soon as they were able to fulfil the relevant obliga-tions.

The Europe Agreements and the decisions taken inCopenhagen constitute the framework for deepeningrelations and creating the context which will enablethese conditions to be met. The further implementa-tion of those Agreements and decisions is one of theessential conditions for accession: their full potentialmust now be exploited with a view to preparing foraccession. The European Council recalls the impor-tanCe of the decisions taken by the Council 7 March 1994 on political dialogue, which should befully and effectively implemented as a matter of pri-ority .

The European Council invites the Commission tomake specific proposals as soon as possible for thefurther implementation of the Europe Agreements andthe decisions taken by the European Council inCopenhagen. The European Council also asks thePresidency and the Commission to report to it for itsnext meeting on progress made on this basis, on theprocess of alignment since the Copenhagen EuropeanCouncil, and on the strategy to be followed with aview to preparing for accession.

This will be helped by the development of good

neighbourly relations, which will be the subject of thestability pact.

The institutional conditions for ensuring the properfunctioning of.the Union must be created at the 1996intergovernmental conference, which for that reasonmust take place before accession negotiations begin.

The Union and its Member States will continue theircontacts with Slovenia with a view to establishing thebest conditions for increased cooperation with thatcountry. Meanwhile, the Council will continue its ex-amination of a draft mandate for a Europe Agreement.

The European Council welcomes the fact that thenegotiations with the Baltic States for the establish-ment of free trade areas are moving towards .fmal-ization and reiterates that the conclusion of EuropeAgreements with those countries, which will helpthem to prepare for subsequent accession, remains theaim of the Union.

The European Council expects Russia, inconformitywith earlier commitments, to complete its troop with~drawals from Latvia and Estonia by 31 August 1994.

Bull. EU 6- 1994

Conclusions of the Presidency

The European Council attaches importance to theefforts made by the Baltic States to develop legal andregulatory frameworks which conform with inter aliathe recommendations of the CSCE High Commis-sioner and of the Council of Europe. It notes with con-cern the adoption by the Latvian Parliament of a

citizenship law incompatible with these recommenda-tions and hopes that the draft law will be reconsi-dered.

Pact on stabilityReferenc,,: Inaugural conference: Bull. 5- 1994, point1.3.

1.14. The European Council welcomes the adoption bythe inaugural conference in Paris of the concluding

documents setting in train the process that will lead tothe conclusion of the pact on stability in Europe.

The European Council calls on the interested coun-tries to give full expression now to the commitmentsinto which they entered at the inaugural conference

and looks forward to the early convening of the roundtables. For its part, the Union reaffmns its will to mo-bilize its economic and financial instruments as itscontribution to the success of this undertaking.

Rwanda15. The European Council expresses its horror at the

genocide taking place in Rwanda. Those responsibleshould be brought to justice. The European Councilappeals urgently to all parties to the conflict to stopthe wanton killing of civilians and to come back to thenegotiating table to work for peace and security forall, on the basis of the Arusha Agreement.

It particularly welcomes the adoption of SecurityCouncil Resolution No 929 authorizing the establish-ment of a temporary operation, pending the arrival ofthe reinforce(i Unarnir, to protect displaced persons,refugees, and civilians at risk in Rwanda. The Euro-pean Council welcomes the 21 June 1994 decision ofthe Western European Union to support the efforts ofits Member States which have expressed their willing-ness to contribute to this operation by ensuring the co-ordination of their contributions.

The European Council expresses its appreciation tothe African countries, which have taken up the burdenof so many refugees and are contributing to the politi-cal solution of the conflict. The European Union willfor its part continue and increase its own humanitarianaid.

Southern Africa16. The European Council applauds the way in

which South Africa has resolutely committed itself todemocratic transition, through the exercise of moder-

Bull. EU 6- 1994

ation and national reconciliation. It welcomes the startof the reintegration of the country into its region andthe larger world community and also pledges to sup-port the government of this new South Africa, as it ad-dresses the needs and legitimate aspirations of all itspeople, whom it now represents.

The European Council confmns its intention to estab-lish contractual relations between the European Unionand South Africa in order to promote economic devel-opment, trade relations and political dialogue withSouth Africa.

The European Council will also encourage the politi-cal stabilization and economic development of thesouthern African region as a whole. In this context,the European Council recalls the decision to hold aministerial Conference in Berlin on 5 and 6 Septem-ber 1994 with the SADC Member States and SouthAfrica.

The European Council welcomes the substantial pro~

gress achieved in the peace process in Mozambiquewhich inter alia has made it possible for the dates of27 and 28 October 1994 to be set for general elec-tions. It invites the Council to consider further ways tosupport the peace process, in particular in the field ofelectoral assistance.

The European Council calls on both the Governmentof Mozambique and Renamo to abide by their com-mitment to the process of national reconciliation.

Relations with the ACP States1.17. The European Council reaffirms its attachmentto cooperation with the countries of Africa, the Carib~

bean and the Pacific, which are facing challenges onan unprecedented scale. It undertakes to support themin their efforts aimed at economic and politicalreform. The mid-term review of Lome IV, whichshould result by I March 1995 in the revision of cer-tain provisions of the Agreement and the definition ofthe next financial protocol, should provide an oppor~tunity to confmn the European Union s commitmentto the ACP States.

UkraineReference: Partnership and Cooperation Agreement tween the European Communiti~ and Ukraine: point1.3.34 of this Bulletin

1.18. The European Council welcomes the signature ofthe Partnership and Cooperation Agreement withUkraine, which will help to pave the way to the devel~opment of a full and fruitful cooperation relationshipbetween Ukraine and the European Union.

The European Council reaffmns the Union s support

for the independence, sovereignty and territorial integ-

Conclusions of the Presidency

rity of Ukraine, for the consolidation of democraticinstitutions and the achievement of market-orientedeconomic reforms. The European Council emphasizesin this context that success will largely depend on thesustained willingness and ability of the Ukrainian au-thorities to carry forward the process of economic andpolitical reform.

The European Council welcomes the steps alreadytaken by Ukraine towards the full implementation ofnuclear and conventional disarmament agreementsand calls for early Ukrainian ratification of the Non-proliferation Treaty as a non-nuclear weapon State.

The European Council invites the Council to continueits work on the formulation of an overall policytowards Ukraine. In elaborating such a policy, draw-ing on the full range of instruments available under

the Treaty on European Union, including possiblejoint actions, the Council should follow these generalguidelines:0 sustained support for the consolidation of demo-cratic institutions, for respect for human rights and forthe achievement of market-oriented economicreforms;0 the promotion of good neighbourly relations be-tween Ukraine and its neighbours;0 cooperation with Ukraine in multilateral forums insupport of regional and international stability and thepeaceful settlement of disputes;0 support for the full implementation of nuclear andconventional disarmament agreements;0 acceptance by Ukraine of internationally acceptednuclear safety standards within an overall energy pol-icy.

The European Council expresses its preoccupationwith the global issue of nuclear safety in Ukraine. TheEuropean Council recommends in particular that theChernobyl nuclear plant be closed definitively and asearly as possible. This closure should be implementedthrough a combination of:(J the immediate and definitive closure of reactors Iand 2 of Chernobyl together with, as early as possiblethe closure of reactor 3, subject to compensation

through the termination and upgrading to adequate

safety standards of three reactors under constructionin Zaporoje, Rovno and Khmelnitosky;0 an immediate structural reform of the energy sectorin Ukraine, including an effective tariffication andpricing policy, and measures to promote energy sav-ing, and the development of alternative sources of en-ergy;0 an immediate and determined effort to strengthenand upgrade construction and operation standards forsafety in the nuclear sector, with the aim of achievingstandards corresponding to those applied in .the Euro-pean Union; the achievement of this objective shouldbe monitored by independent inspectors;

0 the ratification of the Vienna Convention on nucle-ar liability.The European Union wishes to reach an agreementwith Ukraine on this set of actions in the field of nu-clear safety and is prepared to provide substantial helpin a comprehensive plan to be discussed with its part-ners in the forthcoming G7 Summit. This plan willinvolve fmancial effort from the international commu~nity, including international financial institutions. TheEuropean Union, for its part, is willing to raise ECU400 million in Euratom loans and, in addition, to pro-vide ECU 100 million over three years under theTACIS programme for this plan.

Finally, the European Union expresses the stronghope that the next G7 Summit in Naples will agree topropose to Ukraine a joint effort to underpin thereform process, in particular in the field of nuclearsafety.

North Korea1.19. The European Council is deeply concerned bythe failure of the Democratic People s Republic ofKorea to allow the IAEA inspectors to completeessential inspection activities , making it impossible toconclude whether diversion of plutonium from peace~ful uses has taken place. The continued failure of theDemocratic People s Republic of Korea to complywith the provisions of the DPRK-IAEA SafeguardAgreement is contrary to its international obligations.

The European Council considers nuclear proliferationa major threat to international peace and security andrecalls its longstanding commitment to the aims of theNon~proliferation Treaty. The European Council callsagain on the Democratic People s Republic of Koreato recognize and respect its international responsib-ilities and confirms that prospects for a better relation-ship with North Korea would be greatly enhanced ifconcerns about its nuclear activities could be alle-viated. It expresses the hope that the exchanges beingpursued with North Korea will result rapidly ina sat-isfactory solution.

Latin America1.20. The European Council reaffirms the importanceit attaches to its relations with Latin American coun-tries and their regional groupings. It expresses its sat-isfaction with the progress achieved in the areas of de-mocracy and respect for human rights, peace anddisarmament, economic reforms and regional integra-tion.

In this context, the European Council welcomes theaccession of Mexico to the QECD and expresses itswish to strengthen its political and economic relationswith this country. It also confirms the intention of

theEuropean Union to strengthen its relations withMercosur. It invites the Council and the Commissionto pursue these questions further.

Bull. EU 6- 1994

Conclusions of the Presidency

Guidelines for a joint action on the

preparation of the 1995 Conference ofthe parties to the Treaty on theNon-proliferation of Nuclear Weapons/.21. The European Council, recalling its firm andfull commitment in favour of the objective of nuclear.non-proliferation stated in the 1990 declarationadopted by the European Council in Dublin, thereport on common foreign and security policy sub-mitted to the 1992 European Council in Lisbon aswell as the report submitted to the 1992 EuropeanCouncil in Edinburgh on the development of the

cornrnon foreign and security policy in the field ofsecurity, agrees that a joint action shall be adoptedconcerning the preparation of the 1995 Conferenceof the parties to the Treaty on the Non-proliferationof Nuclear Weapons (NPT).

The joint action should be prepared along the follow-ing lines:q the basis for the joint action is consensus amongpartners that the NPT should be extended indefinitelyand unconditionally;

q joint efforts have to be made in order to promotethis goal among the States parties to the Treaty whichmight not share this conviction;

q the aim of universality of the NPT requires jointefforts in order to convince States which are not yetparties to the NPT to accede, if possible before 1995,and to assist the States ready to accede in acceleratingtheir accession;

q in order to enhance the prospects for a successfuloutcome of the 1995 NPT Conference, representationshave to be made with a view to:

promoting participation in the remaining twoPrepcom sessions in Geneva and New York re~spectively and the 1995 Conference itself;

widening consensus on the aim of indefinite andunconditional extension of the NPT.

Former YugoslaviaReferences:

Council conclusions on the administration of Mostar:Bull. 4-1994, point 1.3.

Attendance by the Community troika at a ministerialmeeting on Bosnia-Herzegovina: Bull. 5- 1994, point1.3.4

Memorandum of Understanding on the administra-tion of Mostar: point 1.3.6 of this Bulletin

Council Decision 94/308/CFSP adapting and extend-ing the application of Decision 93/603/CFSP concerningthe joint action decided on by the Council on the basisof Article J.3 of the Treaty on European Union on sup"port for the convoying of humanitarian aid in Bosniaand Herzegovina: OJ L 134, 30. 1994; Bull. 5- 1994point 1.3.

Bull. EU 6- 1994

1.22. The European Council is deeply concerned bythe continuation of the conflict in former Yugoslaviaand particularly in Bosnia and Herzegovina.In Geneva on 13 May, the European Union along withRussia and the United States of America demonstratedtheir determination to work together for an early anddurable settlement .of the Bosnian conflict throughnegotiations. The work of the contact group has reach~ed a critical stage. The European Council expects theparties to show the necessary political will in order toreach a solution to the conflict as soon as possible.

The European Council urges the Bosnian parties tobuild on the cease-ftre agreement of 8 June 1994. Thisis, however, only a first step towards a complete ces-sation of hostilities which is essential for progress inthe negotiations. The European Council is committedto a settlement that preserves Bosnia and Herzegovinaas a single union within its internationally recognizedborders, while providing for constitutional arrange-

ments that establish the relationship between the Bos-niac-Croat and Bosnian Serb entities on the basis of aterritorial arrangement which would allocate 51 % ofthe territory to the Bosniac~Croatentity and 49% tothe Bosnian Serb entity.The European Council welcomes the progress made inthe reconciliation between Bosniacs and BosnianCroats based on the agreements for the establishmentof the Bosniac-Croat Federation. The European Unionhas responded positively to the invitation to providefor the administration of Mostar for a period of up totwo years. The European Council welcomes the read-iness of the Western Economic Union to contribute apolice element to this administration. The EuropeanCouncil calls on the parties concerned to approve theMemorandum of Understanding thus opening the wayfor signature without delay. The early establishmentof the EU administration is an important step towardsstabilization of the situation in Bosnia. In this contextthe European Council reiterates the readiness of theEuropean Union to make its contribution to rehabil-itation, the return of refugees and reconstruction inBosnia-Herzegovina within the framework of theefforts of the international community.

The European Council expresses its disappointment atthe cancellation of the Plitvice meeting between theCroatian Government and the Krajina Serbs. TheCouncil calls for the early resumption of these talksand calls on the Serbs to show the necessary flexibil-ity with a view to achieving a solution in the UNP in accordance with the action plan of the EuropeanUnion.

Cooperation on justice and homeaffairs

References:Action plan in the fields of justice and home affairs:

Bull. 12- 1993, point 1.8

Conclusions of the Presidency

Commission communication to the Council and Par-liament on immigration and asylum policies: COM(94)23; Bull. 1I2-1994, point 1.4.3

Commission communication to the Council and Par-liament on a European Union action plan to combatdrugs (1995-99): COM(94) 234; point 1.4.6 of this Bul-letin

Racism and xenophobia/.23. The European Council condemns the continuingmanifestations of intolerance, racism and xenophobiaand affmns its determination to step up the fightagainst these phenomena.

It welcomes the joint Franco~German initiativeagainst racism and xenophobia in which it is proposedin particular to:0 constitute a Consultative Commission composed ofeminent personalities charged with making recom~mendations on cooperation between governments andthe various social bodies in favour of encouraging tol-erance and understanding of foreigners;

i:J develop a global strategy at EU level aimed at com-bating acts of racist and xenophobic violence;i:J set up training efforts for officials in those parts ofthe national administrations most concerned by thesephenomena.

The European Council invites the Council (generalaffairs) to examine the mandate, composition and sta-tus of the Consultative Commission proposed in theFranco-German initiative and report to the EuropeanCouncil in Essen on the interim results of the work ofthat Commission. It invited the Ministers for Justiceand the Interior to report on their work at the nextEuropean Council in Essen. Finally, it requests thatcurrent work in the Council (education and socialaffairs) in this field should be speeded up in the lightof the Franco-German initiative.

Finally, the European Council approved a detailedtimetable and work plan with a view to the adoptionby the European Council by the end of June 1995 ofan overall strategy of the Union (Annex ITI).

Implementation of the priority plan/.24. The European Council notes with satisfaction theprogress made in implementing its priority action plandrawn up in Brussels in December 1993, including thesubmission by the Commission of a new drugs planwhich proposes an important new framework for theprevention of drug dependency, the reduction of drugtrafficking and action on .the international level. Itexpects this work to be accelerated so that the EssenEuropean Council will be able to record that concretemeasures have been taken in all areas covered by theaction plan (Europol, global strategy on combatingdrugs, common list for visas, judicial cooperation,

asylum, coordination with the common foreign andsecurity policy).

The Council underlined in general the importance ofwork within the framework of the cooperation on jus-tice and home affairs to tackle the threats posed by or-ganized crime (including terrorism) and drugs. Itinvited the Council (justice and home affairs) to com-plete its work on preparing a Convention setting upEuropol by the beginning of October and agreed thatEuropol's remit should be extended to include orga-nized crime as its next priority. The European Councilinvited the German Presidency to arrange a confe-rence with the Central and East European States ondrugs and organized crime. The European Councilasked the Council (justice and home affairs) to reachagreement on tackling the criminal aspects of fraudand report back to its meeting at Essen in December.In the context of preparation of the various instru-ments providing for the setting up of computerizedsystems, the problem of data protection must be givenparticular attention, notably as regards the followingaspects: right of aCCeSS by persons concerned to thesystem, right of appeal by individuals and creation ofa common supervisory authority. The European Coun-cil asks the competent bodies to continue to give pri-ority to these questions and hopes to receive a pro-gress report at its meeting in December 1994.

Preparation of the 1996

intergovernmental conference

Reference: Council Decision on qualified-majoritydecision-making by the Council: OJ C 105, 13.4. 1994;Bull. 3- 1994, point 1.3.27; declaration by the MemberStates and declaration by the four applicant countries:Bull. 3- 1994, point 1.3.

/.25. The European Council, following the loanninaAgreement, hereby establishes a Reflection Group toprepare for the 1996 intergovernmental conference

consisting of representatives of the Ministers for For-eign Affairs of the Member States and the President ofthe Commission. It will be chaired by a personappointed by the Spanish Government and begin itswork in June 1995. Two European Parliament repre-sentatives will participate in the work of the Reflec-tion Group. The Group will also have exchanges ofviews with the other institutions and organs of theEuropean Union.

The institutions are invited to establish, before the

start of the work of the Reflection Group, reports onthe functioning of the Treaty on European Unionwhich will provide an input for the work of the Group.The Reflection Group will examine and elaborateideas relating to the provisions of the Treaty on Euro~pean Union for which a revision is foreseen and otherpossible improvements in a spirit of democracy andopenness, on the basis of the evaluation of the func-tioning of the Treaty as set out in the reports. It will

Bull. EU 6- 1994

Conclusions of the Presidency

also elaborate options in the perspective of the futureenlargement of the Union on the institutional ques-tions set out in the conclusions of the European Coun-cil in Brussels and in the Ioannina Agreement(weighting of votes, the threshold for qualified major-ity decisions, number of Members of the Commissionand any other measure deemed necessary to facilitatethe work of the institutions and guarantee their effec-tive operation in the perspective of enlargement).The Secretary-General of the Council will make thenecessary arrangements for the secretariat of theReflection Group in agreement with its chairman.The Reflection Group will report in time for the meet-ing of the European Council at the end of 1995. Theprocedure laid down in the Treaty relating to revisionwill apply to the next phase.

1.26. The European Council took note of the intentionof the incoming German Presidency to make bilateralcontacts with delegations in order to prepare a deci-

sion on the desigr\ation of the future President of theCommission at an extraordinary European Council tobe held in Brussels on 15 July.

Annex I

List of high-priority transport projectsadopted by the European Council1.27. The list of high-priority transport projectsadopted by the European Council is set out below.

Projects Countriesinvolved

High-speed train/combined trans-port North-South

Brenner axis Verona-Munich-N uremberg - Erfurt - HallelLei pzig -Berlin

Italy,Austria andGermany

High-speed train (Paris)-Brussels-Co logne- Amsterdam -Lon don

The following sections of the pro-ject are included:

0 Belgium: French/Belgian bor-der - Brussels- Liege-Belgian!German border, Brussels-Bel-gian/Dutch border

0 United Kingdom: London-Channel Tunnel access

(J Netherlands: Belgian/Dutchborder - Rotterdam-Amsterdam

0 Germany: Aachen ' Cologne-RhineIMain

BelgiumUnitedKingdom

Netherlands

Germany

Bull. EU 6.1994

Projects Countriesinvolved

High-speed train SouthMadrid - B arcelona- Perpi gnan-Montpellier

Madrid- Vitoria-Dax

High-speed train EastThe following sections of the pro-ject are included:

0 Paris-Metz-Strasbourg-Appen-weier-Karlsruhe

0 with junctions to Metz-Saar-briicken-Mannheim

0 and Metz-Luxembourg

Betuwe line: combined transport!conventional rail

Rotterdam-Dutch/German bor-der-Rhine-Ruhr1

High-speed train/combined trans-port France-Italy

Lyons-Turin

Motorway Patras-GreeklBulgarianborder jointly with the West-Eastmotorway corridor

Via Egnatia

Igoumenitsa- Thessaloniki-Alex-andro u po lis-Ormeni 000 pi

Motorway Lisbon- Valladolid

Cork-Dublin-Belfast - Larne-Stran-raer rail link

Malpensa Airport (Milan)

Fixed railJroad link between Den-mark and Sweden (0resund fixedlink)

Including access routes

Spainand France

Spainand France

FranceFrance andGermanyFrance andLuxembourg

Netherlandsand Gennany

France andItaly

Greece

Portugaland Spain

Ireland and

UnitedKingdom

Italy

Denmarkand Sweden

I Ongoing construction support already provided at Commu.nity level.

2 The extension to Frankfurt is already under construction; theproject for the further extension to Berlin is not advancedenough.

Conclusions of the Presidency

Annex II

List of energy projects. to which theEuropean Council has given priority status1.28. The list of energy projects to which the EuropeanCouncil has given priority status is set out below.

France-Italy: electricity interconnection

Italy-Greece: electricity interconnection (cable)

Denmark: East-West electricity connection (cable)(not eligible for Structural Funds)

Portugal: natural gas network

Greece: natural gas network

Spain-Portugal: natural gas interconnections

Spain-Portugal: electricity interconnections

Algeria-Morocco-European Union: gas pipeline

Russia-Belarus-Poland-European Union: gas pipeline

I Including the introduction of natural gas in the Extremadura and

Galicia regions of Spain.2 This project should also he shortlisted although it has not yetreached the same stage as the other gas schemes.

Annex III

Implementation of the Franco-Germaninitiative against racisIQ and xenophobia1.29. The timetable and work plan for implementationof the Franco-German initiative against racism andxenophobia are set out below.

18 and19 July

Detailed mandate, composition andstatus of the Consultative Commis-sion to be decided by the General

Affairs Council. Essentially, thisCommission could be charged withmaking recommendations, geared asfar as possible to national and localcircumstances, on cooperation be-tween governments and the varioussocial bodies in favour of encourag-ing tolerance and understanding offoreigners.

July to endNovember

28 and

29 November

30 November

9 and

10 December

March 1995

April andMay 1995

June 1995

Work in the preparatory bodies forthe JHA Council in fields comingunder its responsibility, on the basisof the joint Franco/German initia-tive, the conclusions reached by theCouncil at its meeting on 29 and 30November 1993 and the workingdocument from the Greek Presi-dency.

Interim report from the ConsultativeCommission to the General AffairsCouncil on the results of its work.

Report of the JHA Council on theprogress made and on other specificmeasures deemed appropriate, onthe basis of the discussions under~

taken during this period.

Presentation to the European Coun-cil in Essen of the reports of theGeneral Affairs and JHA Councils.

Examination by the JHA Council ofthe results of the work done pursu-ant to Title VI.

Establishment by the GeneralAffairs Council of an overall Unionstrategy aimed at combating racistand xenophobic acts of violence onthe basis of:0 the final report of the Consulta-

tive Commission;0 the views expressed by the Coun-

cil in its various specialized for-mations.

Adoption by the European Council

of the draft overall

strategy of the Union.

I Draft plan of work under Title VIAs regards Title VI, the work should be done under the auspicesof the K.4 C01IlIDittee in the relevant existing working parties.In accordance with the conclusions of the Council meeting on29 and 30 November 1993 and with the terms of the Franco!German initiative, these bodies should examine:0 training aspects, including the essential components of joint

training measures;Oa more precise definition of what constitutes a racist or xeno-

phobic act, leading on to a detailed examination of the scopefor further approximating the laws and practices of the Mem-ber States;

0 an improvement in the collection of data and statistics on rac-ism and xenophobia;

0 ways of improving cross-border cooperation and exchangesof information at an operational level between the variousbodies responsible for enforcing the relevant laws in the

Member States.

Bull. EU 6- 1994