title: Council Decision (EU) 2018/201 of 23 January 2018 on the position to be taken on behalf of the Union within the Joint Visa Facilitation Committee set up under the Agreement between the European Union and the Republic of Azerbaijan on the facilitation of the issuance of visas with regard to the adoption of its rules of procedure

text:
               10.2.2018

               EN

               Official Journal of the European Union

               L 38/13

         COUNCIL DECISION (EU) 2018/201
   of 23 January 2018
   on the position to be taken on behalf of the Union within the Joint Visa Facilitation Committee set up under the Agreement between the European Union and the Republic of Azerbaijan on the facilitation of the issuance of visas with regard to the adoption of its rules of procedure
   THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,
   Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, and in particular point (a) of Article 77(2) in conjunction with Article 218(9) thereof,
   Having regard to Council Decision 2014/242/EU of 14 April 2014 on the conclusion of the Agreement between the European Union and the Republic of Azerbaijan on the facilitation of the issuance of visas (1),
   Having regard to the proposal from the European Commission,
   Whereas:

               (1)

               The Agreement between the European Union and the Republic of Azerbaijan on the facilitation of the issuance of visas (2) (‘the Agreement’) entered into force on 1 September 2014.

               (2)

               The Agreement provides for the setting-up of a Joint Committee for the management of the Agreement (‘the Joint Committee’). The Joint Committee has, inter alia, the task of monitoring the implementation of the Agreement.

               (3)

               The Agreement states that the Joint Committee is to establish its own rules of procedure.

               (4)

               It is therefore appropriate to establish the position to be adopted on behalf of the Union within the Joint Committee with regard to the adoption of the Joint Committee's rules of procedure.

               (5)

               This Decision constitutes a development of the provisions of the Schengen acquis in which the United Kingdom does not take part, in accordance with Council Decision 2000/365/EC (3); the United Kingdom is therefore not taking part in its adoption and is not bound by it or subject to its application.

               (6)

               This Decision constitutes a development of the provisions of the Schengen acquis in which Ireland does not take part, in accordance with Council Decision 2002/192/EC (4); Ireland is therefore not taking part in its adoption Decision and is not bound by it or subject to its application.

               (7)

               In accordance with Articles 1 and 2 of Protocol No 22 on the position of Denmark, annexed to the Treaty on European Union and to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, Denmark is not taking part in the adoption of this Decision and is not bound by it or subject to its application,

         HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:
   Article 1
   The position to be adopted on behalf of the Union within the Joint Visa Facilitation Committee set up under the Agreement between the European Union and the Republic of Azerbaijan on the facilitation of the issuance of visas, with regard to the adoption of its rules of procedure, shall be based on the draft decision of the Joint Visa Facilitation Committee attached to this Decision.
   Article 2
   This Decision shall enter into force on the date of its adoption.

      Done at Brussels, 23 January 2018.

            For the Council

            The President

         V. GORANOV

      (1)  OJ L 128, 30.4.2014, p. 47.

      (2)  OJ L 128, 30.4.2014, p. 49.

      (3)  Council Decision 2000/365/EC of 29 May 2000 concerning the request of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland to take part in some of the provisions of the Schengen acquis (OJ L 131, 1.6.2000, p. 43).

      (4)  Council Decision 2002/192/EC of 28 February 2002 concerning Ireland's request to take part in some of the provisions of the Schengen acquis (OJ L 64, 7.3.2002, p. 20).

      DRAFT
      DECISION No …/2018 OF THE JOINT VISA FACILITATION COMMITTEE SET UP UNDER THE AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE EUROPEAN UNION AND THE REPUBLIC OF AZERBAIJAN ON THE FACILITATION OF THE ISSUANCE OF VISAS
      of …
      with regard to the adoption of its rules of procedure
      THE COMMITTEE,
      Having regard to the Agreement between the European Union and the Republic of Azerbaijan on the facilitation of the issuance of visas (‘the Agreement’), and in particular Article 12(4) thereof,
      Whereas that Agreement entered into force on 1 September 2014,
      HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:
      Article 1
      Chairmanship
      The Joint Visa Facilitation Committee (‘the Joint Committee’) shall be chaired jointly by a representative of the European Union and a representative of the Republic of Azerbaijan.
      Article 2
      Tasks of the Joint Committee
      1.   In accordance with Article 12(2) of the Agreement, the Joint Committee shall, in particular, have the following tasks:

                  (a)

                  monitoring the implementation of the Agreement;

                  (b)

                  suggesting amendments or additions to the Agreement;

                  (c)

                  settling disputes arising out of the interpretation or application of the provisions in the Agreement.

            2.   The Joint Committee may agree on recommendations containing guidelines or best practices to assist in the implementation of the Agreement.
      Article 3
      Meetings
      1.   The Joint Committee shall meet whenever necessary, at the request of the Parties, and at least once per year.
      2.   The Parties shall take turns in hosting the meeting unless otherwise agreed.
      3.   Meetings of the Joint Committee shall be convened by the Co-chairs.
      4.   The Co-chairs shall establish a date for the meeting and exchange such documents as are necessary in time to ensure adequate preparation, 30 days prior to the meeting.
      5.   The Party hosting a meeting shall make the necessary arrangements with regard to logistical matters.
      Article 4
      Delegations
      The Parties shall notify each other of the intended composition of their delegation at least seven days before a meeting.
      Article 5
      Agenda for meetings
      1.   A provisional agenda for each meeting shall be drawn up by the Co-chairs no later than 14 days before the meeting. The provisional agenda shall include the items in respect of which a request for inclusion in the agenda has been received by either of the Co-chairs no later than 14 days before the meeting.
      2.   Either Party may add items to the provisional agenda at any time prior to the meeting if the other Party agrees. Requests to add items to the provisional agenda shall be sent in writing and shall be accommodated to the extent possible.
      3.   The final agenda shall be adopted by the Co-chairs at the beginning of each meeting. An item not appearing on the provisional agenda may be placed on the agenda if the Parties agree and shall be addressed to the extent possible.
      Article 6
      Minutes of meetings
      1.   A draft of the minutes shall be prepared as soon as possible by the Co-chair of the Party hosting the meeting.
      2.   The minutes shall, as a general rule, indicate in respect of each item on the agenda the following:

                  (a)

                  the documentation submitted to the Joint Committee;

                  (b)

                  statements which a Party has requested to be entered; and

                  (c)

                  decisions taken, recommendations made and conclusions adopted on a specific item.

            3.   The minutes shall indicate the individuals of the respective delegations participating, as well as the ministry, agency or institution they represent.
      4.   The minutes shall be approved by the Joint Committee at its next meeting.
      Article 7
      Decisions and recommendations of the Joint Committee
      1.   The Joint Committee shall take decisions by agreement of both Parties.
      2.   Each decision of the Joint Committee shall be entitled ‘Decision’ followed by a serial number and a description of its subject. The date on which the decision takes effect shall also be indicated. Decisions shall be signed by representatives of the Joint Committee who are authorised to act on behalf of the Parties. Decisions shall be drawn up in duplicate, each copy being equally authentic.
      3.   Paragraphs 1 and 2 shall apply mutatis mutandis to recommendations of the Joint Committee.
      Article 8
      Expenses
      1.   Each Party shall be responsible for the expenses it incurs by reason of its participation in the meetings of the Joint Committee, including staff, travel and subsistence expenditure and postal or telecommunications expenditure.
      2.   Other expenses arising from the organisation of the meetings shall be covered by the Party hosting the meeting, unless otherwise decided by the Parties.
      Article 9
      Administrative procedures
      1.   Unless the Joint Committee decides otherwise, its meetings shall not be open to the public.
      2.   Minutes and other documents of the Joint Committee shall be treated as confidential.
      3.   Participants other than officials of the Parties and the Member States may be invited by agreement of both Co-chairs and shall be subject to the same confidentiality requirements.
      4.   The Parties may organise public briefings or otherwise inform interested members of the public of the results of the Joint Committee's meetings.
      Article 10
      Entry into force
      This decision shall enter into force on the date of its adoption.

         Done at …,

               For the European Union

               For the Republic of Azerbaijan

      JOINT DECLARATION OF THE EUROPEAN UNION AND OF THE REPUBLIC OF AZERBAIJAN ANNEXED TO THE RULES OF PROCEDURE OF THE JOINT VISA FACILITATION COMMITTEE SET UP UNDER THE AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE EUROPEAN UNION AND THE REPUBLIC OF AZERBAIJAN ON THE FACILITATION OF THE ISSUANCE OF VISAS
      In order to ensure the continued, harmonised and correct implementation of the Agreement, the Member States of the Union, the European Commission and the Republic of Azerbaijan shall undertake informal contacts between formal meetings of the Joint Visa Facilitation Committee, in order to deal with urgent issues. At the next meeting of the Joint Visa Facilitation Committee, a report will be made about those issues and informal contacts.


title: Decision (EU) 2018/508 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 12 December 2017 on the mobilisation of the European Union Solidarity Fund to provide for the payment of advances in the general budget of the Union for 2018

text:
               27.3.2018

               EN

               Official Journal of the European Union

               L 83/13

         DECISION (EU) 2018/508 OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND OF THE COUNCIL
   of 12 December 2017
   on the mobilisation of the European Union Solidarity Fund to provide for the payment of advances in the general budget of the Union for 2018
   THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,
   Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,
   Having regard to Council Regulation (EC) No 2012/2002 of 11 November 2002 establishing the European Union Solidarity Fund (1), and in particular Article 4a(4) thereof,
   Having regard to the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management (2), and in particular point 11 thereof,
   Having regard to the proposal from the European Commission,
   Whereas:

               (1)

               The European Union Solidarity Fund (the ‘Fund’) aims to enable the Union to respond in a rapid, efficient and flexible manner to emergency situations in order to show solidarity with the population of regions struck by natural disasters.

               (2)

               The Fund is not to exceed a maximum amount of EUR 500 000 000 (2011 prices) as laid down in Article 10 of Council Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 1311/2013 (3).

               (3)

               Article 4a(4) of Regulation (EC) No 2012/2002 provides that, where necessary in order to ensure the timely availability of budgetary resources, the Fund may be mobilised in an amount of up to EUR 50 000 000 for the payment of advances, entering the corresponding appropriations into the general budget of the Union.

               (4)

               To ensure the timely availability of sufficient budgetary resources in the general budget of the Union for 2018, the Fund should be mobilised in the amount of EUR 50 000 000 for the payment of advances.

               (5)

               In order to minimise the time taken to mobilise the Fund, this Decision should apply from the beginning of the 2018 financial year,

         HAVE ADOPTED THIS DECISION:
   Article 1
   For the general budget of the Union for the financial year 2018, the European Union Solidarity Fund shall be mobilised to provide the amount of EUR 50 000 000 in commitment and payment appropriations for the payment of advances.
   Article 2
   This Decision shall enter into force on the day following that of its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union.
   It shall apply from 1 January 2018.

      Done at Brussels, 12 December 2017.

            For the European Parliament

            The President

         A. TAJANI

            For the Council

            The President

         K. SIMSON

      (1)  OJ L 311, 14.11.2002, p. 3.

      (2)  OJ C 373, 20.12.2013, p. 1.

      (3)  Council Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 1311/2013 of 2 December 2013 laying down the multiannual financial framework for the years 2014-2020 (OJ L 347, 20.12.2013, p. 884).


title: European Council Decision (EU) 2018/509 of 22 March 2018 appointing the Vice-President of the European Central Bank

text:
               27.3.2018

               EN

               Official Journal of the European Union

               L 83/15

         EUROPEAN COUNCIL DECISION (EU) 2018/509
   of 22 March 2018
   appointing the Vice-President of the European Central Bank
   THE EUROPEAN COUNCIL,
   Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, and in particular Article 283(2),
   Having regard to Council Recommendation of 20 February 2018 on the appointment of the Vice-President of the European Central Bank (1),
   Having regard to the opinion of the European Parliament (2),
   Having regard to the opinion of the Governing Council of the European Central Bank (3),
   Whereas:

               (1)

               In accordance with Decision 2010/223/EU of the European Council (4), the term of office of Mr Vítor CONSTÂNCIO, Vice-President of the European Central Bank, expires on 31 May 2018 and it is therefore necessary to appoint a new Vice-President of the European Central Bank.

               (2)

               The European Council wishes to appoint Mr Luis DE GUINDOS JURADO who, in its view, fulfils all the requirements set out in Article 283(2) of the Treaty,

         HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:
   Article 1
   Mr Luis DE GUINDOS JURADO is hereby appointed Vice-President of the European Central Bank for a term of office of 8 years as from 1 June 2018.
   Article 2
   This Decision shall be published in the Official Journal of the European Union.
   Article 3
   This Decision shall enter into force on the date of its adoption.

      Done at Brussels, 22 March 2018.

            For the European Council

            The President

         D. TUSK

      (1)  OJ C 67, 22.2.2018, p. 1.

      (2)  Opinion delivered on 14 March 2018 (not yet published in the Official Journal).

      (3)  Opinion delivered on 7 March 2018 (not yet published in the Official Journal).

      (4)  Decision 2010/223/EU of the European Council of 26 March 2010 appointing the Vice-President of the European Central Bank (OJ L 99, 21.4.2010, p. 7).


title: Council Decision (EU) 2018/575 of 12 April 2018 appointing an alternate member, proposed by Malta, of the Committee of the Regions

text:
               16.4.2018

               EN

               Official Journal of the European Union

               L 96/56

         COUNCIL DECISION (EU) 2018/575
   of 12 April 2018
   appointing an alternate member, proposed by Malta, of the Committee of the Regions
   THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,
   Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, and in particular Article 305 thereof,
   Having regard to the proposal of the Government of Malta,
   Whereas:

               (1)

               On 26 January 2015, 5 February 2015 and 23 June 2015, the Council adopted Decisions (EU) 2015/116 (1), (EU) 2015/190 (2) and (EU) 2015/994 (3) appointing the members and alternate members of the Committee of the Regions for the period from 26 January 2015 to 25 January 2020. On 10 November 2015, by Council Decision (EU) 2015/2029 (4), Mr Anthony MIFSUD was replaced by Ms Graziella GALEA as an alternate member.

               (2)

               An alternate member's seat on the Committee of the Regions has become vacant following the end of the mandate on the basis of which Ms Graziella GALEA (Mayor, Saint Paul's Bay Local Council) was proposed,

         HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:
   Article 1
   The following is hereby appointed as an alternate member of the Committee of the Regions for the remainder of the current term of office, which runs until 25 January 2020:

               —

               Ms Graziella GALEA, Councillor, Saint Paul's Bay Local Council (change of mandate).

         Article 2
   This Decision shall enter into force on the date of its adoption.

      Done at Luxembourg, 12 April 2018.

            For the Council

            The President

         T. DONCHEV

      (1)  Council Decision (EU) 2015/116 of 26 January 2015 appointing the members and alternate members of the Committee of the Regions for the period from 26 January 2015 to 25 January 2020 (OJ L 20, 27.1.2015, p. 42).

      (2)  Council Decision (EU) 2015/190 of 5 February 2015 appointing the members and alternate members of the Committee of the Regions for the period from 26 January 2015 to 25 January 2020 (OJ L 31, 7.2.2015, p. 25).

      (3)  Council Decision (EU) 2015/994 of 23 June 2015 appointing the members and alternate members of the Committee of the Regions for the period from 26 January 2015 to 25 January 2020 (OJ L 159, 25.6.2015, p. 70).

      (4)  Council Decision (EU) 2015/2029 of 10 November 2015 appointing one Maltese member and two Maltese alternate members of the Committee of the Regions (OJ L 297, 13.11.2015, p. 8).


title: Commission Decision (EU) 2018/753 of 22 May 2018 confirming the participation of Ireland in Directive 2013/33/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council laying down standards for the reception of applicants for international protection

text:
               23.5.2018

               EN

               Official Journal of the European Union

               L 126/8

         COMMISSION DECISION (EU) 2018/753
   of 22 May 2018
   confirming the participation of Ireland in Directive 2013/33/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council laying down standards for the reception of applicants for international protection
   THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION,
   Having regard to Protocol No 21 on the position of the United Kingdom and Ireland in respect of the Area of Freedom, Security and Justice, annexed to the Treaty on European Union and to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, and in particular Article 4 thereof,
   Having regard to the notification by Ireland of its wish to accept and be bound by the Directive 2013/33/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 26 June 2013 laying down standards for the reception of applicants for international protection (1),
   Whereas:

               (1)

               Directive 2013/33/EU was adopted on 26 June 2013. Member States had until 20 July 2015 to bring into force the laws, regulations and administrative provisions necessary to comply with the Directive.

               (2)

               By letter of 24 January 2018, Ireland notified its wish to accept and be bound by Directive 2013/33/EU.

               (3)

               On 20 February, 4 April and 9 April 2018, Ireland transmitted to the Commission draft legislation transposing Directive 2013/33/EU into national law. The completion of the draft legislation is ongoing.

               (4)

               As the conditions of participation of Ireland have been fulfilled, the participation of Ireland in Directive 2013/33/EU should be confirmed, in accordance with the procedure provided for in Article 331(1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union.

               (5)

               Transitional measures are needed to allow Ireland to complete the procedure of bringing into force the laws, regulations and administrative provisions necessary to comply with Directive 2013/33/EU. As Ireland is already at an advanced stage of preparing the draft measures transposing that Directive into national law with a view to their adoption, it is considered reasonable to require Ireland to complete the procedure by 30 June 2018, at the latest,

         HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:
   Article 1
   1.   The participation of Ireland in Directive 2013/33/EU is confirmed.
   2.   Directive 2013/33/EU shall apply to Ireland in accordance with this Decision from 24 May 2018.
   Article 2
   Ireland shall bring into force the laws, regulations and administrative provisions necessary to comply with Directive 2013/33/EU by 30 June 2018, at the latest. Ireland shall forthwith communicate to the Commission the text of those provisions. Those measures shall contain a reference to Directive 2013/33/EU or be accompanied by such reference on the occasion of their official publication. Ireland shall determine how such reference is to be made.
   Article 3
   This Decision shall enter into force on 24 May 2018.

      Done at Brussels, 22 May 2018.

            For the Commission

            The President

         Jean-Claude JUNCKER

      (1)  OJ L 180, 29.6.2013, p. 96.


title: Council Decision (EU) 2018/751 of 14 May 2018 on the position to be adopted on behalf of the European Union within the Stabilisation and Association Council established by the Stabilisation and Association Agreement between the European Communities and their Member States, of the one part, and the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, of the other part, concerning the transition to the second stage of the Association between the European Communities and their Member States, of the one part, and the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, of the other part, pursuant to Article 5(3) of the Agreement

text:
               23.5.2018

               EN

               Official Journal of the European Union

               L 126/3

         COUNCIL DECISION (EU) 2018/751
   of 14 May 2018
   on the position to be adopted on behalf of the European Union within the Stabilisation and Association Council established by the Stabilisation and Association Agreement between the European Communities and their Member States, of the one part, and the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, of the other part, concerning the transition to the second stage of the Association between the European Communities and their Member States, of the one part, and the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, of the other part, pursuant to Article 5(3) of the Agreement
   THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,
   Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, and in particular Article 217, in conjunction with Article 218(9) thereof,
   Having regard to the proposal from the European Commission,
   Whereas:

               (1)

               The Stabilisation and Association Agreement between the European Communities and their Member States, of the one part, and the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, of the other part (1) (the ‘Agreement’), entered into force on 1 April 2004.

               (2)

               Article 5(1) of the Agreement provides for a transitional period of a maximum of ten years divided into two successive stages.

               (3)

               The first stage began on 1 April 2004, which was the date of entry into force of the Agreement.

               (4)

               Article 5(3) of the Agreement further provides that four years after the entry into force of the Agreement, the Stabilisation and Association Council is to evaluate the progress made and to decide about the passage into the second phase and its duration, as well as on any possible changes to be brought about as regards the content of the provisions governing the second stage.

               (5)

               The Parties are determined to comply with the obligations related to the transition to the second stage of the Association.

               (6)

               The former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia has taken the measures necessary to ensure compliance with all of the obligations resulting from the transition to the second stage.

               (7)

               The position of the Union within the Stabilisation and Association Council should therefore be based on the attached draft Decision,

         HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:
   Article 1
   The position to be adopted on the Union's behalf within the Stabilisation and Association Council established by the Agreement concerning the transition to the second stage of the Association between the European Communities and their Member States, of the one part, and the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, of the other part, pursuant to Article 5(3) of the Agreement, shall be based on the draft Decision of the Stabilisation and Association Council attached to this Decision.
   Article 2
   This Decision shall enter into force on the date of its adoption.

      Done at Brussels, 14 May 2018.

            For the Council

            The President

         E. ZAHARIEVA

      (1)  OJ L 84, 20.3.2004, p. 13.

      DRAFT
      DECISION No …/2018 OF THE STABILISATION AND ASSOCIATION COUNCIL
      of …
      concerning the transition to the second stage of the Association between the European Communities and their Member States, of the one part, and the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, of the other part, pursuant to article 5(3) of the Stabilisation and Association Agreement
      THE STABILISATION AND ASSOCIATION COUNCIL,
      Having regard to the Stabilisation and Association Agreement between the European Communities and their Member States, of the one part, and the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, of the other part (1) (the ‘Agreement’), and in particular Article 5(3) thereof,
      Whereas:

                  (1)

                  Article 5(1) of the Agreement provides for a transitional period of a maximum of ten years divided into two successive stages.

                  (2)

                  The first stage began on 1 April 2004, which was the date of entry into force of the Agreement.

                  (3)

                  Article 5(3) of the Agreement further provides that the Stabilisation and Association Council is to evaluate the progress made and to decide about the passage into the second phase and its duration, as well as on any possible changes to be brought about as regards the content of the provisions governing the second stage.

                  (4)

                  The Parties are determined to comply with the obligations related to the transition to the second stage of the Association.

                  (5)

                  The former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia has taken the measures necessary to ensure compliance with all of the obligations resulting from the transition to the second stage,

            HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:
      Article 1
      The transition to the second stage of the Association between the European Communities and their Member States, of the one part, and the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, of the other part, pursuant to Article 5(3) of the Agreement, hereby takes effect.
      Article 2
      This Decision shall enter into force on the date of its adoption.

         Done at …,

               For the Stabilisation and Association Council

               The President

         (1)  OJ L 84, 20.3.2004, p. 13.


title: Council Decision (EU) 2018/760 of 14 May 2018 on the conclusion of an Agreement in the form of an Exchange of Letters between the European Union and the Kingdom of Norway concerning additional trade preferences in agricultural products

text:
               25.5.2018

               EN

               Official Journal of the European Union

               L 129/1

         COUNCIL DECISION (EU) 2018/760
   of 14 May 2018
   on the conclusion of an Agreement in the form of an Exchange of Letters between the European Union and the Kingdom of Norway concerning additional trade preferences in agricultural products
   THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,
   Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, and in particular the first subparagraph of Article 207(4), in conjunction with point (a)(v) of Article 218(6) thereof,
   Having regard to the proposal from the European Commission,
   Having regard to the consent of the European Parliament (1),
   Whereas:

               (1)

               Article 19 of the Agreement on the European Economic Area provides that the Contracting Parties undertake to continue their efforts with a view to achieving progressive liberalisation of agricultural trade.

               (2)

               In accordance with Council Decision (EU) 2017/2182 (2) the Agreement in the form of an Exchange of Letters between the European Union and the Kingdom of Norway concerning additional trade preferences in agricultural products (‘the Agreement’) was signed on 4 December 2017, subject to its conclusion.

               (3)

               The Agreement should be approved,

         HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:
   Article 1
   The Agreement in the form of an Exchange of Letters between the European Union and the Kingdom of Norway concerning additional trade preferences in agricultural products is hereby approved on behalf of the Union.
   The text of the Agreement is attached to this Decision.
   Article 2
   The President of the Council shall designate the person(s) empowered to deposit, on behalf of the Union, the instrument of approval provided for in the Agreement (3).
   Article 3
   This Decision shall enter into force on the date of its adoption.

      Done at Brussels, 14 May 2018.

            For the Council

            The President

         E. ZAHARIEVA

      (1)  Consent of 17 April 2018 (not yet published in the Official Journal).

      (2)  Council Decision (EU) 2017/2182 of 20 November 2017 on the signing, on behalf of the European Union, of an Agreement in the form of an Exchange of Letters between the European Union and the Kingdom of Norway concerning additional trade preferences in agricultural products (OJ L 309, 24.11.2017, p. 1).

      (3)  The date of entry into force of the Agreement will be published in the Official Journal of the European Union by the General Secretariat of the Council.


title: Council Decision (EU) 2018/776 of 22 May 2018 on the position to be adopted, on behalf of the European Union, within the EEA Joint Committee concerning the amendment of Protocol 31 to the EEA Agreement, on cooperation in specific fields outside the four freedoms (Budget line 12 02 01: ‘Implementation and development of the single market for financial services’) (Text with EEA relevance. )

text:
                  29.5.2018

                  EN

                  Official Journal of the European Union

                  L 131/12

            COUNCIL DECISION (EU) 2018/776
      of 22 May 2018
      on the position to be adopted, on behalf of the European Union, within the EEA Joint Committee concerning the amendment of Protocol 31 to the EEA Agreement, on cooperation in specific fields outside the four freedoms (Budget line 12 02 01: ‘Implementation and development of the single market for financial services’)
      (Text with EEA relevance)
      THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,
      Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, and in particular Article 114 in conjunction with Article 218(9) thereof,
      Having regard to Council Regulation (EC) No 2894/94 of 28 November 1994 concerning arrangements for implementing the Agreement on the European Economic Area (1), and in particular Article 1(3) thereof,
      Having regard to the proposal from the European Commission,
      Whereas:

                  (1)

                  The Agreement on the European Economic Area (2) (‘the EEA Agreement’) entered into force on 1 January 1994.

                  (2)

                  Pursuant to Article 98 of the EEA Agreement, the EEA Joint Committee may decide to amend, inter alia, Protocol 31 to the EEA Agreement.

                  (3)

                  Protocol 31 to the EEA Agreement contains provisions on cooperation in specific fields outside the four freedoms.

                  (4)

                  It is appropriate to continue the cooperation of the Contracting Parties to the EEA Agreement in Union actions funded from the general budget of the Union regarding financial services.

                  (5)

                  Protocol 31 to the EEA Agreement should therefore be amended in order to allow for that extended cooperation to continue from 1 January 2018.

                  (6)

                  The position of the Union within the EEA Joint Committee should be based on the attached draft decision,

            HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:
      Article 1
      The position to be adopted, on behalf of the Union, within the EEA Joint Committee on the proposed amendment of Protocol 31 to the EEA Agreement, on cooperation in specific fields outside the four freedoms, shall be based on the draft decision of the EEA Joint Committee attached to this Decision.
      Article 2
      This Decision shall enter into force on the date of its adoption.

         Done at Brussels, 22 May 2018.

               For the Council

               The President

            E. KARANIKOLOV

         (1)  OJ L 305, 30.11.1994, p. 6.

         (2)  OJ L 1, 3.1.1994, p. 3.

         DRAFT
         DECISION OF THE EEA JOINT COMMITTEE No …/2018
         of …
         amending Protocol 31 to the EEA Agreement, on cooperation in specific fields outside the four freedoms
         THE EEA JOINT COMMITTEE,
         Having regard to the Agreement on the European Economic Area (‘the EEA Agreement’), and in particular Articles 86 and 98 thereof,
         Whereas:

                     (1)

                     It is appropriate to continue the cooperation of the Contracting Parties to the EEA Agreement in Union actions funded from the general budget of the Union regarding the implementation and development of the single market for financial services.

                     (2)

                     Protocol 31 to the EEA Agreement should therefore be amended in order to allow for that extended cooperation to take place from 1 January 2018,

               HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:
         Article 1
         In Article 7(11) of Protocol 31 to the EEA Agreement, the words ‘and 2017’ are replaced by the words ‘, 2017 and 2018’.
         Article 2
         This Decision shall enter into force on the day following the last notification under Article 103(1) of the EEA Agreement (*1).
         It shall apply from 1 January 2018.
         Article 3
         This Decision shall be published in the EEA Section of, and in the EEA Supplement to, the Official Journal of the European Union.

            Done at Brussels,.

                  For the EEA Joint Committee

                  The President

                  The Secretaries to the EEA Joint Committee

            (*1)  [No constitutional requirements indicated.] [Constitutional requirements indicated.]


title: Council Decision (EU) 2018/777 of 22 May 2018 on the position to be adopted, on behalf of the European Union, within the EEA Joint Committee concerning the amendment of Protocol 31 to the EEA Agreement, on cooperation in specific fields outside the four freedoms (budget line 02 04 77 03: ‘Preparatory action on defence research’) (Text with EEA relevance. )

text:
                  29.5.2018

                  EN

                  Official Journal of the European Union

                  L 131/14

            COUNCIL DECISION (EU) 2018/777
      of 22 May 2018
      on the position to be adopted, on behalf of the European Union, within the EEA Joint Committee concerning the amendment of Protocol 31 to the EEA Agreement, on cooperation in specific fields outside the four freedoms (budget line 02 04 77 03: ‘Preparatory action on defence research’)
      (Text with EEA relevance)
      THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,
      Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, and in particular Article 218(9) thereof,
      Having regard to Council Regulation (EC) No 2894/94 of 28 November 1994 concerning arrangements for implementing the Agreement on the European Economic Area (1), and in particular Article 1(3) thereof,
      Having regard to Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 966/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 25 October 2012 on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the Union and repealing Council Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 1605/2002 (2) and in particular point (b) of Article 54(2), Article 84(2) and Article 124 thereof,
      Having regard to the proposal from the European Commission,
      Whereas:

                  (1)

                  The Agreement on the European Economic Area (3) (‘the EEA Agreement’) entered into force on 1 January 1994.

                  (2)

                  Pursuant to Article 98 of the EEA Agreement, the EEA Joint Committee may decide to amend, inter alia, Protocol 31 to the EEA Agreement.

                  (3)

                  Protocol 31 to the EEA Agreement contains provisions on cooperation in specific fields outside the four freedoms.

                  (4)

                  The EFTA States are to continue to participate in Union activities related to budget line 02 04 77 03: ‘Preparatory action on defence research’, entered into the general budget of the Union for the financial year 2018.

                  (5)

                  Protocol 31 to the EEA Agreement should therefore be amended in order to allow for that extended cooperation to continue from 1 January 2018.

                  (6)

                  The position of the Union within the EEA Joint Committee should be based on the attached draft decision,

            HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:
      Article 1
      The position to be adopted, on behalf of the Union, within the EEA Joint Committee on the proposed amendment of Protocol 31 to the EEA Agreement, on cooperation in specific fields outside the four freedoms, shall be based on the draft decision of the EEA Joint Committee attached to this Decision.
      Article 2
      This Decision shall enter into force on the date of its adoption.

         Done at Brussels, 22 May 2018.

               For the Council

               The President

            E. KARANIKOLOV

         (1)  OJ L 305, 30.11.1994, p. 6.

         (2)  OJ L 298, 26.10.2012, p. 1.

         (3)  OJ L 1, 3.1.1994, p. 3.

         DRAFT
         DECISION OF THE EEA JOINT COMMITTEE No …/2018
         of …
         amending Protocol 31 to the EEA Agreement, on cooperation in specific fields outside the four freedoms
         THE EEA JOINT COMMITTEE,
         Having regard to the Agreement on the European Economic Area (‘the EEA Agreement’), and in particular Articles 86 and 98 thereof,
         Whereas:

                     (1)

                     The cooperation of the Contracting Parties to the EEA Agreement was extended by Joint Committee Decision No 208/2017 to include the participation of the EFTA States in the Union's preparatory action on defence research which is funded from the general budget of the Union.

                     (2)

                     The EFTA States shall continue to participate in Union activities related to budget line 02 04 77 03: ‘Preparatory action on defence research’, entered into the general budget of the Union for the financial year 2018.

                     (3)

                     Protocol 31 to the EEA Agreement should therefore be amended in order to allow for that extended cooperation to continue from 1 January 2018,

               HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:
         Article 1
         In paragraph 13(a) of Article 1 of Protocol 31 to the EEA Agreement, the words ‘financial year 2017’ are replaced by the words ‘financial years 2017 and 2018’.
         Article 2
         This Decision shall enter into force on the day following the last notification under Article 103(1) of the EEA Agreement (*1).
         It shall apply from 1 January 2018.
         Article 3
         This Decision shall be published in the EEA Section of, and in the EEA Supplement to, the Official Journal of the European Union.

            Done at Brussels,

                  For the EEA Joint Committee

                  The President

                  The Secretaries to the EEA Joint Committee

            (*1)  [No constitutional requirements indicated.] [Constitutional requirements indicated.]


title: Council Decision (EU) 2018/786 of 22 May 2018 on the position to be adopted, on behalf of the European Union, within the EEA Joint Committee concerning the amendment of Protocol 31 to the EEA Agreement, on cooperation in specific fields outside the four freedoms (Budget line 04 03 01 03: ‘Free movement of workers, co-ordination of social security schemes and measures for migrants including migrants from third countries’) (Text with EEA relevance. )

text:
                  30.5.2018

                  EN

                  Official Journal of the European Union

                  L 132/45

            COUNCIL DECISION (EU) 2018/786
      of 22 May 2018
      on the position to be adopted, on behalf of the European Union, within the EEA Joint Committee concerning the amendment of Protocol 31 to the EEA Agreement, on cooperation in specific fields outside the four freedoms (Budget line 04 03 01 03: ‘Free movement of workers, co-ordination of social security schemes and measures for migrants including migrants from third countries’)
      (Text with EEA relevance)
      THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,
      Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, and in particular Articles 46 and 48 in conjunction with Article 218(9) thereof,
      Having regard to Council Regulation (EC) No 2894/94 of 28 November 1994 concerning arrangements for implementing the Agreement on the European Economic Area (1), and in particular Article 1(3) thereof,
      Having regard to the proposal from the European Commission,
      Whereas:

                  (1)

                  The Agreement on the European Economic Area (2) (‘the EEA Agreement’) entered into force on 1 January 1994.

                  (2)

                  Pursuant to Article 98 of the EEA Agreement, the EEA Joint Committee may decide to amend, inter alia, Protocol 31 to the EEA Agreement.

                  (3)

                  Protocol 31 to the EEA Agreement contains specific provisions on cooperation in specific fields outside the four freedoms.

                  (4)

                  It is appropriate to continue the cooperation of the Contracting Parties to the EEA Agreement in Union actions funded from the general budget of the Union regarding the free movement of workers, the coordination of social security systems and measures for migrants, including migrants from third countries.

                  (5)

                  Protocol 31 to the EEA Agreement should therefore be amended in order to allow for that extended cooperation to continue beyond 31 December 2017.

                  (6)

                  The position of the Union in the EEA Joint Committee should therefore be based on the attached draft decision,

            HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:
      Article 1
      The position to be adopted, on behalf of the Union, within the EEA Joint Committee on the proposed amendment of Protocol 31 to the EEA Agreement, on cooperation in specific fields outside the four freedoms, shall be based on the draft decision of the EEA Joint Committee attached to this Decision.
      Article 2
      This Decision shall enter into force on the date of its adoption.

         Done at Brussels, 22 May 2018.

               For the Council

               The President

            E. KARANIKOLOV

         (1)  OJ L 305, 30.11.1994, p. 6.

         (2)  OJ L 1, 3.1.1994, p. 3.

         DRAFT
         DECISION OF THE EEA JOINT COMMITTEE No …/2018
         of …
         amending Protocol 31 to the EEA Agreement, on cooperation in specific fields outside the four freedoms
         THE EEA JOINT COMMITTEE,
         Having regard to the Agreement on the European Economic Area (‘the EEA Agreement’), and in particular Articles 86 and 98 thereof,
         Whereas:

                     (1)

                     It is appropriate to continue the cooperation of the Contracting Parties to the EEA Agreement in Union actions funded from the general budget of the Union regarding the free movement of workers, coordination of social security systems and measures for migrants, including migrants from third countries.

                     (2)

                     Protocol 31 to the EEA Agreement should therefore be amended in order to allow for that extended cooperation to take place from 1 January 2018,

               HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:
         Article 1
         In paragraphs 5 and 13 of Article 5 of Protocol 31 to the EEA Agreement, the words ‘and 2017’ are replaced by the words ‘, 2017 and 2018’.
         Article 2
         This Decision shall enter into force on the day following the last notification under Article 103(1) of the EEA Agreement (*1).
         It shall apply from 1 January 2018.
         Article 3
         This Decision shall be published in the EEA Section of, and in the EEA Supplement to, the Official Journal of the European Union.

            Done at Brussels,

                  For the EEA Joint Committee

                  The President

                  The Secretaries to the EEA Joint Committee

            (*1)  [No constitutional requirements indicated.] [Constitutional requirements indicated.]


title: Council Decision (EU) 2018/889 of 4 June 2018 on the conclusion, on behalf of the European Union, of the Council of Europe Convention on the Prevention of Terrorism

text:
               22.6.2018

               EN

               Official Journal of the European Union

               L 159/1

         COUNCIL DECISION (EU) 2018/889
   of 4 June 2018
   on the conclusion, on behalf of the European Union, of the Council of Europe Convention on the Prevention of Terrorism
   THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,
   Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, and in particular Article 83(1), in conjunction with Article 218(6)(a) thereof,
   Having regard to the proposal from the European Commission,
   Having regard to the consent of the European Parliament (1),
   Whereas:

               (1)

               In accordance with Council Decision (EU) 2015/1913 (2), the Council of Europe Convention on the Prevention of Terrorism (3) (‘the Convention’) was signed on 22 October 2015, subject to its conclusion.

               (2)

               Article 23 of the Convention provides that the Convention is open for approval by the Union.

               (3)

               Directive (EU) 2017/541 of the European Parliament and of the Council (4) established common Union rules on combatting terrorism. Consequently, the Union has already adopted measures in different areas covered by the Convention.

               (4)

               The Convention should therefore be approved on behalf of the Union as regards matters falling within the competence of the Union in so far as the Convention may affect those common rules or alter their scope. The Member States retain their competence in so far as the Convention does not affect common rules or alter the scope thereof.

               (5)

               Ireland is bound by Council Framework Decision 2002/475/JHA (5) and is therefore taking part in the adoption of this Decision.

               (6)

               In accordance with Articles 1 and 2 of Protocol No 21 on the position of the United Kingdom and Ireland in respect of the area of freedom, security and justice, annexed to the Treaty on European Union and to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, and without prejudice to Article 4 of that Protocol, the United Kingdom is not taking part in the adoption of this Decision and is not bound by it or subject to its application.

               (7)

               In accordance with Articles 1 and 2 of Protocol No 22 on the position of Denmark, annexed to the Treaty on European Union and to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, Denmark is not taking part in the adoption of this Decision and is not bound by it or subject to its application,

         HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:
   Article 1
   The Council of Europe Convention on the Prevention of Terrorism, as regards matters falling within the competence of the Union, is hereby approved on behalf of the Union.
   The text of the Convention is attached to this Decision.
   Article 2
   The President of the Council shall designate the person(s) empowered to deposit, on behalf of the Union, the instrument of approval provided for in Article 23 of the Convention (6).
   Article 3
   This Decision shall enter into force on the date of its adoption.

      Done at Luxembourg, 4 June 2018.

            For the Council

            The President

         T. TSACHEVA

      (1)  Consent of 18 April 2018 (not yet published in the Official Journal).

      (2)  Council Decision (EU) 2015/1913 of 18 September 2015 on the signing, on behalf of the European Union, of the Council of Europe Convention on the Prevention of Terrorism (CETS No 196) (OJ L 280, 24.10.2015, p. 22).

      (3)  CETS No 196.

      (4)  Directive (EU) 2017/541 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 15 March 2017 on combating terrorism and replacing Council Framework Decision 2002/475/JHA and amending Council Decision 2005/671/JHA (OJ L 88, 31.3.2017, p. 6).

      (5)  Council Framework Decision 2002/475/JHA of 13 June 2002 on combating terrorism (OJ L 164, 22.6.2002, p. 3).

      (6)  The date of entry into force of the Convention for the European Union will be published in the Official Journal by the General Secretariat of the Council.


title: Council Decision (CFSP) 2018/901 of 25 June 2018 amending Decision (CFSP) 2017/2074 concerning restrictive measures in view of the situation in Venezuela

text:
               25.6.2018

               EN

               Official Journal of the European Union

               LI 160/12

         COUNCIL DECISION (CFSP) 2018/901
   of 25 June 2018
   amending Decision (CFSP) 2017/2074 concerning restrictive measures in view of the situation in Venezuela
   THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,
   Having regard to the Treaty n European Union, and in particular Article 29 thereof,
   Having regard to Council Decision (CFSP) 2017/2074 of 13 November 2017 concerning restrictive measures in view of the situation in Venezuela (1),
   Having regard to the proposal from the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy,
   Whereas:

               (1)

               On 13 November 2017, the Council adopted Decision (CFSP) 2017/2074.

               (2)

               On 28 May 2018, the Council adopted conclusions on Venezuela stating that the elections held in Venezuela on 20 May 2018 were neither free nor fair and that the election and its outcome lacked any credibility as the electoral process did not ensure the necessary guarantees for inclusive and democratic elections.

               (3)

               The conclusions called for the holding of fresh presidential elections in accordance with internationally recognised democratic standards and the Venezuelan constitutional order, and, in that context, for additional targeted and reversible restrictive measures that do not harm the Venezuelan population.

               (4)

               In view of the situation in Venezuela, 11 persons should be included in the list of natural and legal persons, entities and bodies subject to restrictive measures in Annex I to Decision (CFSP) 2017/2074.

               (5)

               Annex I to Decision (CFSP) 2017/2074 should therefore be amended accordingly,

         HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:
   Article 1
   Annex I to Decision (CFSP) 2017/2074 is amended as set out in the Annex to this Decision.
   Article 2
   This Decision shall enter into force on the day of its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union.

      Done at Luxembourg, 25 June 2018.

            For the Council

            The President

         F. MOGHERINI

      (1)  OJ L 295, 14.11.2017, p. 60.

      ANNEX
      The following persons are added to the list of natural and legal persons, entities and bodies set out in Annex I to Decision (CFSP) 2017/2074:

                     ‘Name

                     Identifying information

                     Reasons

                     Date of listing

                     8.

                     Tareck Zaidan El-Aissami Maddah

                     Vice President of Economy and Minister for National Industry and Production
                     Date of birth: 12 November 1974

                     Vice President of Economy and Minister for National Industry and Production. As the former Vice President of Venezuela with oversight of the direction of the Bolivarian National Intelligence Service (SEBIN) Maddah is responsible for the serious human rights violations carried out by the organisation, including arbitrary detention, politically motivated investigations, inhumane and degrading treatment, and torture. He is also responsible for supporting and implementing policies and activities which undermine democracy and the rule of law, including the prohibition of public demonstrations, and heading President Maduro's “anti-coup command” which has targeted civil society and the democratic opposition.

                     25.6.2018

                     9.

                     Sergio José Rivero Marcano

                     Inspector General of the Bolivarian National Armed Forces
                     Date of birth: 8 November 1964

                     General Commander of the Bolivarian National Guard until 16 January 2018. Involved in the repression of civil society and democratic opposition in Venezuela, and responsible for serious human rights violations committed by the Bolivarian National Guard under his command, including the excessive use of force, and the arbitrary detention and abuse of civil society and opposition members. His actions and policies as General Commander of the Bolivarian National Guard, including the Bolivarian National Guard assaulting members of the democratically elected National Assembly and intimidating journalists reporting on the fraudulent elections for the illegitimate Constituent Assembly, have undermined democracy and the rule of law in Venezuela.

                     25.6.2018

                     10.

                     Jesús Rafael Suárez Chourio

                     General Commander of the Bolivarian Army
                     Date of birth: 19 July 1962

                     General Commander of the Venezuelan Bolivarian National Army and former Commander of Venezuela's Comprehensive Defence Region of the Central Zone (REDI Central). Responsible for human rights violations by forces under his command, including the use of excessive force and the mistreatment of detainees. Has targeted the democratic opposition and supported the use of military courts to try civilian protestors.

                     25.6.2018

                     11.

                     Iván Hernández Dala

                     Head of Directorate-General of Military Counter-Intelligence
                     Date of birth: 18 May 1966

                     Head of the Directorate-General of Military Counter-Intelligence (DGCIM) since January 2014 and Head of the Presidential Guard since September 2015. As Head of the DGCIM, Iván Hernández Dala is responsible for serious human rights violations and the repression of civil society and democratic opposition committed by members of the DGCIM under his command, including excessive use of force and the ill-treatment of detainees.

                     25.6.2018

                     12.

                     Delcy Eloina Rodríguez Gómez

                     Vice President of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela
                     Date of birth: 18 May 1969

                     Vice President of Venezuela, former President of the illegitimate Constituent Assembly and former member of the Presidential Commission for the illegitimate National Constituent Assembly. Her actions on the Presidential Commission and then as President of the illegitimate Constituent Assembly have undermined democracy and the rule of law in Venezuela, including usurping the powers of the National Assembly and using them to target the opposition and prevent them taking part in the political process.

                     25.6.2018

                     13.

                     Elías José Jaua Milano

                     Minister of Popular Power for Education
                     Date of birth: 16 December 1969

                     Minister of Popular Power for Education. Former President of the Presidential Commission for the illegitimate National Constituent Assembly. Responsible for undermining democracy and the rule of law in Venezuela through his role in leading the establishment of the illegitimate Constituent Assembly.

                     25.6.2018

                     14.

                     Sandra Oblitas Ruzza

                     Vice President of National Electoral Council
                     Date of birth: 7 June 1969

                     Vice President of the National Electoral Council (CNE) and President of the Commission of the Electoral and Civilian Register. Responsible for the CNE's activities which have undermined democracy in Venezuela, including facilitating the establishment of the illegitimate Constituent Assembly and manipulation of the electoral process.

                     25.6.2018

                     15.

                     Freddy Alirio Bernal Rosales

                     Date of birth: 16 June 1962

                     Head of the National Control Centre of the Committee for Local Supply and Production (CLAP) and Commissioner General of SEBIN. Responsible for undermining democracy through manipulation of CLAP programme distributions amongst voters. Additionally, as Commissioner General of SEBIN, he is responsible for SEBIN's activities which include serious human rights violations such as arbitrary detention.

                     25.6.2018

                     16.

                     Katherine Nayarith Harrington Padrón

                     Deputy Prosecutor General (also translated as Deputy Attorney General)
                     Date of birth: 5 December 1971

                     Deputy Prosecutor General (also translated as Deputy Attorney General) since July 2017. Appointed Deputy Prosecutor General by the Supreme Court in violation of the Constitution, rather than by the National Assembly. Responsible for undermining democracy and the rule of law in Venezuela, including by initiating politically-motivated prosecutions and failing to investigate allegations of human rights violations by the Maduro regime.

                     25.6.2018

                     17.

                     Socorro Elizabeth Hernández Hernández

                     Date of birth: 11 March 1952

                     Member (Rector) of the National Electoral Council (CNE) and member of the National Electoral Board (JNE). Responsible for the CNE's activities which have undermined democracy in Venezuela, including facilitating the establishment of the illegitimate Constituent Assembly and manipulation of the electoral process in relation to a cancelled presidential recall election in 2016, postponement of gubernatorial elections in 2016, and the relocation of polling stations at short notice before gubernatorial elections in 2017.

                     25.6.2018

                     18.

                     Xavier Antonio Moreno Reyes

                     Secretary-General of the National Electoral Council

                     Secretary-General of the National Electoral Council (CNE). Responsible for approving CNE decisions which have undermined democracy in Venezuela, including facilitating the establishment of the illegitimate Constituent Assembly and manipulation of the electoral process.

                     25.6.2018’


title: Council Decision (EU) 2018/961 of 26 June 2018 on the position to be adopted, on behalf of the European Union, within the EEA Joint Committee concerning the amendment of Protocol 31 to the EEA Agreement, on cooperation in specific fields outside the four freedoms (Budget Line 02 03 01: ‘Internal Market’ and Budget line 02 03 04: ‘Internal Market Governance Tools’) (Text with EEA relevance.)

text:
                  6.7.2018

                  EN

                  Official Journal of the European Union

                  L 169/51

            COUNCIL DECISION (EU) 2018/961
      of 26 June 2018
      on the position to be adopted, on behalf of the European Union, within the EEA Joint Committee concerning the amendment of Protocol 31 to the EEA Agreement, on cooperation in specific fields outside the four freedoms (Budget Line 02 03 01: ‘Internal Market’ and Budget line 02 03 04: ‘Internal Market Governance Tools’)
      (Text with EEA relevance)
      THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,
      Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, and in particular Article 114 in conjunction with Article 218(9) thereof,
      Having regard to Council Regulation (EC) No 2894/94 of 28 November 1994 concerning arrangements for implementing the Agreement on the European Economic Area (1), and in particular Article 1(3) thereof,
      Having regard to the proposal from the European Commission,
      Whereas:

                  (1)

                  The Agreement on the European Economic Area (2) (‘the EEA Agreement’) entered into force on 1 January 1994.

                  (2)

                  Pursuant to Article 98 of the EEA Agreement, the EEA Joint Committee may decide to amend, inter alia, Protocol 31 on cooperation in specific fields outside the four freedoms (‘Protocol 31’) to the EEA Agreement.

                  (3)

                  Protocol 31 to the EEA Agreement contains provisions on cooperation in specific fields outside the four freedoms.

                  (4)

                  It is appropriate to continue the cooperation of the Contracting Parties to the EEA Agreement in Union actions funded from the general budget of the Union regarding the operation and development of the internal market of goods and services and regarding internal market governance tools.

                  (5)

                  Protocol 31 to the EEA Agreement should therefore be amended in order to allow for that extended cooperation to take place from 1 January2018.

                  (6)

                  The position of the Union within the EEA Joint Committee should therefore be based on the attached draft decision,

            HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:
      Article 1
      The position to be adopted, on behalf of the Union, within the EEA Joint Committee on the proposed amendment of Protocol 31 to the EEA Agreement, on cooperation in specific fields outside the four freedoms, shall be based on the draft decision of the EEA Joint Committee attached to this Decision.
      Article 2
      This Decision shall enter into force on the date of its adoption.

         Done at Luxembourg, 26 June 2018.

               For the Council

               The President

            E. ZAHARIEVA

         (1)  OJ L 305, 30.11.1994, p. 6.

         (2)  OJ L 1, 3.1.1994, p. 3.

         DRAFT
         DECISION OF THE EEA JOINT COMMITTEE No …/2018
         of …
         amending Protocol 31 to the EEA Agreement, on cooperation in specific fields outside the four freedoms
         THE EEA JOINT COMMITTEE,
         Having regard to the Agreement on the European Economic Area (‘the EEA Agreement’), and in particular Articles 86 and 98 thereof,
         Whereas:

                     (1)

                     It is appropriate to continue the cooperation of the Contracting Parties to the EEA Agreement in Union actions funded from the general budget of the Union regarding the operation and development of the internal market of goods and services and regarding internal market governance tools.

                     (2)

                     Protocol 31 to the EEA Agreement should therefore be amended in order to allow for this extended cooperation to take place from 1 January 2018,

               HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:
         Article 1
         Article 7 of Protocol 31 to the EEA Agreement shall be amended as follows:

                     (1)

                     In paragraph 12, the words ‘and 2017’ are replaced by the words ‘, 2017 and 2018’.

                     (2)

                     In paragraph 14, the words ‘the financial year 2017’ are replaced by the words ‘the financial years 2017 and 2018’.

               Article 2
         This Decision shall enter into force on the day following the last notification under Article 103(1) of the EEA Agreement (*1).
         It shall apply from 1 January 2018.
         Article 3
         This Decision shall be published in the EEA Section of, and in the EEA Supplement to, the Official Journal of the European Union.

            Done at Brussels,

                  For the EEA Joint Committee

                  The President

                  The Secretaries to the EEA Joint Committee

            (*1)  [No constitutional requirements indicated.] [Constitutional requirements indicated.]


title: Council Decision (EU) 2018/962 of 3 July 2018 appointing four members and three alternate members, proposed by the Italian Republic, of the Committee of the Regions

text:
               6.7.2018

               EN

               Official Journal of the European Union

               L 169/54

         COUNCIL DECISION (EU) 2018/962
   of 3 July 2018
   appointing four members and three alternate members, proposed by the Italian Republic, of the Committee of the Regions
   THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,
   Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, and in particular Article 305 thereof,
   Having regard to the proposal of the Italian Government,
   Whereas:

               (1)

               On 26 January 2015, 5 February 2015 and 23 June 2015, the Council adopted Decisions (EU) 2015/116 (1), (EU) 2015/190 (2) and (EU) 2015/994 (3) appointing the members and alternate members of the Committee of the Regions for the period from 26 January 2015 to 25 January 2020. On 5 October 2015, by Council Decision (EU) 2015/1791 (4), Mr Onofrio INTRONA was replaced by Mr Roberto CIAMBETTI as an alternate member.

               (2)

               Three members' seats on the Committee of the Regions have become vacant following the end of the term of office of Mr Giovanni ARDIZZONE, Mr Raffaele CATTANEO and Mr Paolo DI LAURA FRATTURA.

               (3)

               A member's seat on the Committee of the Regions has become vacant following the end of the mandate on the basis of which Mr Vincenzo BIANCO (Mayor of Catania) was proposed.

               (4)

               Two alternate members' seats on the Committee of the Regions have become vacant following the end of the term of office of Mr Stefano Bruno GALLI and Mr Isidoro GOTTARDO.

               (5)

               An alternate member's seat has become vacant following the appointment of Mr Roberto CIAMBETTI as a member of the Committee of the Regions,

         HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:
   Article 1
   The following are hereby appointed to the Committee of the Regions for the remainder of the current term of office, which runs until 25 January 2020:

               (a)

               as members:

                           —

                           Mr Alessandro FERMI, Presidente del Consiglio e Consigliere della Regione Lombardia,

                           —

                           Mr Roberto CIAMBETTI, Presidente del Consiglio e Consigliere della Regione Veneto,

                           —

                           Mr Donato TOMA, Presidente della Regione Molise,

                           —

                           Mr Vincenzo BIANCO, Consigliere del Comune di Catania (change of mandate);

               (b)

               as alternate members:

                           —

                           Mr Alessandro PIANA, Presidente del Consiglio e Consigliere della Regione Liguria,

                           —

                           Mr Raffaele CATTANEO, Assessore della Regione Lombardia,

                           —

                           Mr Alberto GOTTARDO, Consigliere del Comune di Sacile.

         Article 2
   This Decision shall enter into force on the date of its adoption.

      Done at Brussels, 3 July 2018.

            For the Council

            The President

         G. BLÜMEL

      (1)  Council Decision (EU) 2015/116 of 26 January 2015 appointing the members and alternate members of the Committee of the Regions for the period from 26 January 2015 to 25 January 2020 (OJ L 20, 27.1.2015, p. 42).

      (2)  Council Decision (EU) 2015/190 of 5 February 2015 appointing the members and alternate members of the Committee of the Regions for the period from 26 January 2015 to 25 January 2020 (OJ L 31, 7.2.2015, p. 25).

      (3)  Council Decision (EU) 2015/994 of 23 June 2015 appointing the members and alternate members of the Committee of the Regions for the period from 26 January 2015 to 25 January 2020 (OJ L 159, 25.6.2015, p. 70).

      (4)  Council Decision (EU) 2015/1791 of 5 October 2015 appointing an Italian alternate member of the Committee of the Regions (OJ L 260, 7.10.2015, p. 27).