title: Council Decision (CFSP) 2016/850 of 27 May 2016 amending Decision 2013/255/CFSP concerning restrictive measures against Syria

text:
               28.5.2016

               EN

               Official Journal of the European Union

               L 141/125

         COUNCIL DECISION (CFSP) 2016/850
   of 27 May 2016
   amending Decision 2013/255/CFSP concerning restrictive measures against Syria
   THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,
   Having regard to the Treaty on European Union, and in particular Article 29 thereof,
   Having regard to the proposal from the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy,
   Whereas:

               (1)

               On 31 May 2013, the Council adopted Decision 2013/255/CFSP (1).

               (2)

               On 28 May 2015, the Council adopted Decision 2015/837/CFSP (2), extending the restrictive measures set out in Decision 2013/255/CFSP until 1 June 2016.

               (3)

               On the basis of a review of Decision 2013/255/CFSP, the restrictive measures should be further extended until 1 June 2017.

               (4)

               Two persons should no longer be kept on the list of natural and legal persons, entities or bodies subject to the restrictive measures in Annex I to Decision 2013/255/CFSP.

               (5)

               The information relating to certain persons listed in Annex I to Decision 2013/255/CFSP should be updated.

               (6)

               Decision 2013/255/CFSP should therefore be amended accordingly,

         HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:
   Article 1
   Article 34 of Decision 2013/255/CFSP is replaced by the following:

      ‘Article 34
      This Decision shall apply until 1 June 2017. It shall be kept under constant review. It may be renewed, or amended as appropriate, if the Council deems that its objectives have not been met.’.

   Article 2
   Annex I to Decision 2013/255/CFSP is amended as set out in the Annex to this Decision.
   Article 3
   This Decision shall enter into force on the day following that of its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union.

      Done at Brussels, 27 May 2016.

            For the Council

            The President

         A.G. KOENDERS

      (1)  Council Decision 2013/255/CFSP of 31 May 2013 concerning restrictive measures against Syria (OJ L 147, 1.6.2013, p. 14).

      (2)  Council Decision (CFSP) 2015/837 of 28 May 2015 amending Decision 2013/255/CFSP concerning restrictive measures against Syria (OJ L 132, 29.5.2015, p. 82).

      ANNEX

                  I.

                  The entries concerning the following persons are deleted from the list of persons set out in Section A of Annex I to Decision 2013/255/CFSP:

                              No 15. Mohamed Farahat (a.k.a. Muhammad Farahat)

                              No 17. Muhammad () Nasif () (a.k.a. Naseef, Nassif, Nasseef) Khayrbik ().

                  II.

                  The entries concerning the persons listed below, as set out in Section A of Annex I to Decision 2013/255/CFSP, are replaced by the following entries:

                              Name

                              Identifying information

                              Reasons

                              Date of listing

                              8.

                           Rami (
                                 ) Makhlouf (
                                 )

                              Born: 10 July 1969;
                              Place of birth: Damascus;
                              passport No 454224

                              Leading businessman operating in Syria with interests in the telecommunications, financial services, transport and property sectors; he has financial interest in and/or holds senior and executive positions in Syriatel, the leading mobile telephone operator in Syria, the investment funds Al Mashreq, Bena Properties and Cham Holding.
                              He furnishes financing and support to the Syrian regime, through his business interests.
                              He is an influential member of the Makhlouf family and closely connected to the Assad family; cousin of President Bashar al-Assad.

                              9.5.2011

                              18.

                           Mohammed (
                                 ) Hamcho (
                                 )

                              Born: 20 May 1966;
                              Passport No 002954347

                              Leading businessman operating in Syria, with interests in the engineering and construction, media, hospitality and health sector. He has financial interest in and/or holds senior and executive positions within a number of companies in Syria, in particular Hamsho international, Hamsho Communication, Mhg International, Jupiter for Investment and Tourism project and Syria Metal industries.
                              He plays an important role in the business community in Syria as general secretary of the Damascus Chamber of Commerce (appointed by the then Minister for economy Khodr Orfali in December 2014), chairman of the China-Syria Bilateral Business Councils (since March 2014) and chairman of the Syrian Metal and Steel Council (since December 2015).
                              He has close business relationships with key figures of the Syrian regime, including Maher Al-Assad.
                              Mohammed Hamcho benefits from and provides support to the Syrian regime through his business interests, and is associated with persons benefiting from and providing support to this regime.

                              27.1.2015

                              22.

                           Ihab (
                                 ) (a.k.a. Ehab, Iehab) Makhlouf (
                                 )

                              Born: 21 January 1973;
                              Place of birth: Damascus;
                              Passport No N002848852

                              Leading businessman operating in Syria. Ihab Makhlouf is Vice President of, and shareholder in Syriatel, the leading mobile telephone operator in Syria. He also has business interests in several other Syrian companies and entities, including Ramak Construction Co and Syrian International Private University for Science and Technology (SIUST).
                              As Vice President of Syriatel, which transfers a significant part of its profits to the Syrian government by way of its licensing contract, Ihab Makhlouf is also directly supporting the Syrian regime.
                              He is an influential member of the Makhlouf family and closely connected to the Assad family; cousin of President Bashar al-Assad.

                              23.5.2011

                              28.

                           Khalid (
                                 ) (a.k.a. Khaled) Qaddur (
                                 ) (a.k.a. Qadour, Qaddour, Kaddour)

                              Leading businessperson operating in Syria, with interests and/or activities in the telecommunications, oil and plastic industry sectors and close business relations with Maher Al-Assad.
                              He benefits from and provides support to the Syrian regime, through his business activities.
                              Associate of Maher Al-Assad, including through his business activities.

                              27.1.2015

                              29.

                           Ra'if (
                                 ) Al-Quwatly (
                                 ) (a.k.a. Ri'af Al-Quwatli a.k.a. Raeef Al-Kouatly)

                              Born: 3.2.1967;
                              Place of birth: Damascus

                              Business associate of Maher Al-Assad and responsible for managing some of his business interests; provides funding to the regime.

                              23.6.2011

                              32.

                           Mr Mohammed (
                                 ) Makhlouf (
                                 ) (a.k.a. Abu Rami)

                              Born: 19.10.1932;
                              Place of birth: Latakia, Syria

                              Influential member of the Makhlouf family, business associate and father of Rami, Ihab and Iyad Makhlouf. Closely associated with the Assad family and maternal uncle of Bashar and Mahir al-Assad. Also referred to as Abu Rami.
                              Leading businessperson operating in Syria, with interests and/or activities in multiple sectors of Syria's economy, including interests in and/or significant influence in the General Organisation of Tobacco and the oil and gas, arms and banking sectors.
                              Involved in business dealings for the Assad regime in arms procurement and banking. Given the extent of his business and political ties to the regime he provides support to and benefits from the Syrian regime.

                              1.8.2011

                              33.

                           Ayman (
                                 ) Jabir (
                                 ) (a.k.a. Aiman Jaber)

                              Place of birth: Latakia

                              Leading businessman operating in Syria, involved in the steel, media, consumable goods and oil sectors, including in trading these goods. He has financial interest and/or holds senior executive positions in a number of companies and entities in Syria, in particular Al Jazira (aka Al Jazerra; El Jazireh), Dunia TV, and Sama Satellite Channel.
                              Through his company Al Jazira, Ayman Jaber has facilitated the importation of oil from Overseas Petroleum Trading to Syria.
                              Ayman Jaber benefits from and provides support to the regime, through his business interests.
                              Provides direct support for and plays leading role in activities of regime affiliated militias known as Shabiha and/or Suqur as-Sahraa.
                              Associate of Rami Makhlouf through his business activities and an associate of Maher Al-Assad through his role in regime affiliated militias.

                              27.1.2015

                              41.

                           Ali (
                                 ) Douba (
                                 )

                              Born: 1933
                              Place of birth: Karfis, Syria

                              Responsible for killings in Hama in 1980, has been called back to Damascus as special advisor to President Bashar Al-Assad.

                              23.8.2011

                              48.

                           Samir (
                                 ) Hassan (
                                 )

                              Leading businessperson operating in Syria, with interests and/or activities in multiple sectors of Syria's economy. He holds interests in and/or has significant influence in the Amir Group and Cham Holdings, two conglomerates with interests in the real estate, tourism, transport and finance sectors. Since March 2014, he has held the position of Chairman for Russia of the Bilateral Business Councils following his appointment by Minister of Economy, Khodr Orfali.
                              Samir Hassan supports the regime's war effort with cash donations.
                              Samir Hassan is associated with persons benefitting from or supporting the regime. In particular, he is associated with Rami Makhlouf and Issam Anbouba, who have been designated by the Council and benefits from the Syrian regime.

                              27.9.2014

                              108.

                           Mohammad (
                                 ) (a.k.a. Mohamed, Muhammad, Mohammed) Al-Jleilati (
                                 )

                              Born: 1945;
                              Place of birth: Damascus

                              Former Minister of Finance, in office until 9 February 2013. As former Government Minister, shares responsibility for the regime's violent repression against the civilian population.

                              1.12.2011

                              111.

                           Joseph (
                                 ) Suwaid (
                                 )

                              Born: 1958;
                              Place of Birth: Damascus

                              Former Minister of State, in office until at least 21 January 2014. As former Government Minister, shares responsibility for the regime's violent repression against the civilian population.

                              23.3.2012

                              112.

                           Hussein (
                                 ) (a.k.a. Hussain) Mahmoud (
                                 ) Farzat (
                                 ) (a.k.a.: Hussein Mahmud Farzat)

                              Born: 1957;
                              Place of Birth: Hama

                              Former Minister of State, in office until at least 2014. As former Government Minister, shares responsibility for the regime's violent repression against the civilian population.

                              23.3.2012

                              114.

                           Emad (
                                 ) Abdul-Ghani (
                                 ) Sabouni (
                                 ) (a.k.a.: Imad Abdul Ghani Al Sabuni)

                              Born: 1964;
                              Place of birth: Damascus

                              Former Minister of Telecommunications and Technology, in office until at least April 2014. As former Government Minister, shares responsibility for the regime's violent repression against the civilian population.

                              27.2.2012

                              117.

                           Adnan (
                                 ) Hassan (
                                 ) Mahmoud (
                                 )

                              Born: 1966;
                              Place of birth: Tartous

                              Former Minister of Information. As former Government Minister, shares responsibility for the regime's violent repression against the civilian population.

                              23.9.2011

                              192.

                              Hashim Anwar al-Aqqad a.k.a. Hashem Aqqad, Hashem Akkad, Hashim Akkad

                              Born: 1961
                              Place of birth: Mohagirine, Syria

                              Leading businessperson operating in Syria, with interests and/or activities in multiple sectors of Syria's economy. He holds interests in and/or has significant influence in Anwar Akkad Sons Group (AASG) and its subsidiary United Oil. AASG is a conglomerate with interests in sectors such as oil, gas, chemicals, insurance, industrial machinery, real estate, tourism, exhibitions, contracting, insurance, and medical equipment.
                              Hashim Anwar al-Aqqad also worked as a member of the Syrian Parliament as recently as 2012.
                              Al-Aqqad could not have remained successful without assistance from the regime. Given the extent of his business and political ties to the regime he provides support to and benefits from the Syrian regime.

                              23.7.2014

                              201.

                              Wael Abdulkarim
                              (a.k.a. Wael Al Karim)

                              Al Karim for Trade and Industry, PO Box 111, 5797 Damascus, Syria

                              Leading businessperson operating in Syria in the oil, chemicals and manufacturing industries. Specifically, he represents Abdulkarim Group, a.k.a Al Karim Group/Alkarim for Trade and Industry/Al Karim Trading and Industry/Al Karim for Trade and Industry. Abdulkarim Group is a leading manufacturer of lubricants, greases and industrial chemicals in Syria.

                              7.3.2015

                              203.

                              George Haswani
                              (a.k.a. Heswani; Hasawani; Al Hasawani)

                              Address: Damascus Province, Yabroud, Al Jalaa St, Syria

                              Leading businessperson operating in Syria, with interests and/or activities in the engineering, construction and oil and gas sectors. He holds interests in and/or has significant influence in a number of companies and entities in Syria, in particular HESCO Engineering and Construction Company, a major engineering and construction company.
                              George Haswani has close ties to the Syrian regime. He provides support and benefits from the regime through his role as a middleman in deals for the purchase of oil from ISIL by the Syrian regime. He also benefits from the regime through favourable treatment including the award of a contract (as a subcontractor) with Stroytransgaz, a major Russian oil company.

                              7.3.2015


Avis juridique important

|

31993D0742

93/742/Euratom, ECSC, EC: Decision of the Council and the Commission of 13 December 1993 on the conclusion of the Europe Agreement between the European Communities and their Member States, of the one part, and the Republic of Hungary, of the other part

Official Journal L 347 , 31/12/1993 P. 0001 - 0001 Finnish special edition: Chapter 11 Volume 25 P. 0003  Swedish special edition: Chapter 11 Volume 25 P. 0003

DECISION OF THE  COUNCIL AND THE COMMISSIONof 13 December 1993on the conclusion of the Europe Agreement between  the European Communities and their Member States, of the one part, and the Republic of Hungary, of  the other part(93/742/Euratom, ECSC, EC)THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION, THE COMMISSION OF THE EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES, Having regard to the Treaty establishing the European Coal and Steel Community, Having regard to the Treaty establishing the European Community, and in particular Article 238 in  conjunction with Article 228 (3), second subparagraph thereof, Having regard to the Treaty establishing the European Atomic Energy Community, and in particular  the second paragraph of Article 101 thereof, Having regard to the assent of the European Parliament  (1), Whereas the Europe Agreement between the European Communities and their Member States, of the one  part, and the Republic of Hungary, of the other part, signed in Brussels on 16 December 1991,  should be approved, HAVE DECIDED AS FOLLOWS:Article 1 The Europe Agreement between the European  Communities and their Member States, of the one part, and the Republic of Hungary, of the other  part, the Protocols annexed thereto and the declarations and exchanges of letters attached to the  Final Act are hereby approved on behalf of the European Coal and Steel Community, the European  Community and the European Atomic Energy Community. The texts of the Agreement, the Protocols annexed thereto and the Final Act are attached to this  Decision. Article 2 1.  The position to be taken by the Community within the Association Council shall be  laid down by the Council, on a proposal from the Commission, or, where appropriate, by the  Commission, each in accordance with the corresponding provisions of the Treaties establishing the  European Community, the European Coal and Steel Community and the European Atomic Energy  Community. 2.  The President of the Council shall, in accordance with Article 105 of the Europe Agreement,  preside over the Association Council and present the position of the Community. A representative of  the Commission shall preside over the Association Committee, in accordance with the Rules of  Procedure thereof, and present the position of the Community. Article 3 The President of the Council shall, as regards the European Community, deposit the act  of notification provided for in Article 123 of the Agreement. The President of the Commission shall  deposit the said acts of notification, as regards the European Coal and Steel Community and the  European Atomic Energy Community. Done at Brussels, 13 December 1993. For the CouncilThe PresidentPh. MAYSTADTFor the CommissionThe PresidentJ. DELORS  (1)  OJ No C 284, 2. 11. 1992, p. 38.


title: 2011/532/EU: Decision of the Representatives of the Governments of the Member States of 8 September 2011 appointing a judge to the Court of Justice

text:
               10.9.2011

               EN

               Official Journal of the European Union

               L 234/42

         DECISION OF THE REPRESENTATIVES OF THE GOVERNMENTS OF THE MEMBER STATES
   of 8 September 2011
   appointing a judge to the Court of Justice
   (2011/532/EU)
   THE REPRESENTATIVES OF THE GOVERNMENTS OF THE MEMBER STATES OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,
   Having regard to the Treaty on European Union, and in particular Article 19 thereof,
   Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, and in particular Articles 253 and 255 thereof,
   Whereas:

               (1)

               Pursuant to Articles 5 and 7 of the Protocol on the Statute of the Court of Justice of the European Union and following the resignation of Ms Pernilla LINDH, a judge should be appointed to the Court of Justice for the remainder of Ms Pernilla LINDH’s term of office, which runs until 6 October 2012.

               (2)

               Mr Carl Gustav FERNLUND has been proposed for the vacant post.

               (3)

               The panel set up by Article 255 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union has given an opinion on Mr Carl Gustav FERNLUND’s suitability to perform the duties of Judge of the Court of Justice,

         HAVE ADOPTED THIS DECISION:
   Article 1
   Mr Carl Gustav FERNLUND is hereby appointed Judge to the Court of Justice for the period from 6 October 2011 to 6 October 2012.
   Article 2
   This Decision shall enter into force on the day following its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union.

      Done at Brussels, 8 September 2011.

            The President

         J. TOMBIŃSKI


title: 2007/795/EC: Commission Decision of 4 December 2007 concerning the financial contribution by the Community, for the year 2007, towards studies, impact assessments and evaluations covering the areas of food safety, animal health and welfare and zootechnics

text:
               7.12.2007

               EN

               Official Journal of the European Union

               L 322/34

      COMMISSION DECISION

   of 4 December 2007
   concerning the financial contribution by the Community, for the year 2007, towards studies, impact assessments and evaluations covering the areas of food safety, animal health and welfare and zootechnics
   (2007/795/EC)
   THE COMMISSION OF THE EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES,
   Having regard to the Treaty establishing the European Community,
   Having regard to Council Decision 90/424/EEC of 26 June 1990 on expenditure in the veterinary field (1), and in particular Article 20 thereof,
   Whereas:

               (1)

               Pursuant to Decision 90/424/EEC, the Community may undertake, or assist the Member States or international organisations in undertaking, the technical and scientific measures necessary for the development of Community veterinary legislation and for the development of veterinary education or training.

               (2)

               Studies, impact assessments as well as systematic and timely evaluations of expenditure programmes in the areas of food safety, animal health and welfare and zootechnics are essential in order to carry out those measures and will also support the actions identified in the Community Action Plan on the Protection and Welfare of Animals 2006-2010.

               (3)

               All individual tasks are subject to specific contracts under an evaluation framework contract for which a call for tender was launched in 2004. Those specific contracts are to be signed between the Commission and the selected contractor as defined in the framework contract.

               (4)

               Studies, impact assessments and evaluations covering the areas of food safety, animal health and welfare and zootechnics are to form part of the further development of Community veterinary legislation and the development of veterinary education or training and will also support the actions identified in the Community Action Plan on the Protection and Welfare of Animals 2006-2010.

               (5)

               It is therefore appropriate for the Community to fund for the year 2007, studies, impact assessments and evaluations, covering the areas of food safety, animal health and welfare and zootechnics. The maximum amount to be allocated to these actions should be specified.

               (6)

               The measures provided for in this Decision are in accordance with the opinion of the Standing Committee on the Food Chain and Animal Health,

         HAS DECIDED AS FOLLOWS:
   Sole Article
   The actions referred to in the Annex are approved and shall be financed through the budget line 17 04 02 01 of the budget of the European Communities for 2007 up to a maximum of EUR 700 000.

      Done at Brussels, 4 December 2007.

            For the Commission

         Markos KYPRIANOU

            Member of the Commission

      (1)  OJ L 224, 18.8.1990, p. 19. Decision as last amended by Regulation (EC) No 1791/2006 (OJ L 363, 20.12.2006, p. 1).

      ANNEX
      Domain: Food safety, animal health and welfare and zootechnics.
      Legal basis: Decision 90/424/EEC of 26 June 1990 on expenditure in the veterinary field.
      Political objectives: The Community Action Plan on the Protection and Welfare of Animals 2006-2010 (1) identified several areas of action in particular the upgrading of existing minimum standards for animal protection and welfare and introducing standardised animal welfare indicators. Concerning animal transport, advice from scientific experts indicates that new appropriate rules on travelling times and loading densities are needed. Commissioner Kyprianou therefore announced several times as during the Agriculture Council in October 2007 that the Commission is studying this question with the aim of proposing a revision of Council Regulation (EC) No 1/2005 (2) in 2009.
      As regards to animal welfare labelling, the Action Plan asks the Commission to submit a report on the possibility of a mandatory labelling scheme for chicken meat and meat products based on compliance with animal welfare standards and to report to the Council and the Parliament on the further application of measurable indicators in Community animal welfare legislation. Furthermore the Council invited the Commission in May 2007 (3) to submit a report to the Council on animal welfare labelling in order to allow an in-depth debate on this subject. For these reasons it is necessary to submit a broader study on the impact of animal welfare labelling and on an Animal Welfare Reference Center which could serve as European coordinating body for the different initiatives related to animal welfare (standardisation/certification of welfare indicators, auditing schemes, databases related to existing certified labels).
      Assignments: Various types of studies and other services supporting the design and preparation of Commission proposals.
      Studies and other services supporting the implementation of the Community Action Plan on the Protection and Welfare of Animals 2006-2010 have been scheduled for 2007, in particular for the preparation of impact assessments in relation to animal transport, slaughter and the preparation of a report on animal welfare labelling as requested by the Council.
      Appropriations 2007: 17 04 02 01 — Other measures in the veterinary, animal welfare and public-health field: EUR 700 000.
      Number of specific actions planned: Approximately four.
      All actions shall be governed by common public procurement rules and will be carried out through specific contracts under a framework contract. Specific contracts will be signed during the last quarter of 2007.

         (1)  Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament and the Council on a Community Action Plan on the Protection and Welfare of Animals 2006-2010, COM(2006) 13 final.

         (2)  OJ L 3, 5.1.2005, p. 1.

         (3)  Conference on ‘Animal Welfare’ — Improving by Labelling? — Council Conclusions, http://www.consilium.europa.eu/ueDocs/cms_Data/docs/pressData/en/agricult/94008.pdf


Avis juridique important

|

32004D0075

2004/75/CFSP: Council Decision 2004/75/CFSP of 11 December 2003 concerning the conclusion of the Agreement between the European Union and the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia on the status and activities of the European Union Police Mission (EUPOL Proxima) in the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia

Official Journal L 016 , 23/01/2004 P. 0065 - 0065

Council Decision 2004/75/CFSPof 11 December 2003concerning the conclusion of the Agreement between the European Union and the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia on the status and activities of the European Union Police Mission (EUPOL Proxima) in the Former Yugoslav Republic of MacedoniaTHE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,Having regard to the Treaty on European Union, and in particular Article 24 thereof,Having regard to the recommendation from the Presidency,Whereas:(1) On 29 September 2003, the Council adopted Joint Action 2003/681/CFSP on the European Union Police Mission in the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (EUPOL Proxima)(1).(2) Article 13 of the Joint Action provides that the status of EUPOL Proxima staff in the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, including where appropriate the privileges, immunities and further guarantees necessary for the completion and smooth functioning of EUPOL Proxima shall be agreed in accordance with the procedure laid down in Article 24 of the Treaty on European Union.(3) Following the Council Decision of 24 November 2003 authorising the Secretary General/High Representative, assisting the Presidency, to open negotiations on its behalf, the Secretary General/High Representative, assisting the Presidency, negotiated an agreement with the Government of FYROM on the status and activities of the European Union Police Mission (EUPOL Proxima) in the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia.(4) The agreement should be approved,HAS DECIDED AS FOLLOWS:Article 1The Agreement between the European Union and the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM) on the status and activities of the European Union Police Mission (EUPOL Proxima) in FYROM is hereby approved on behalf of the European Union.The text of the Agreement is attached to this Decision.Article 2The President of the Council is hereby authorised to designate the person empowered to sign the Agreement in order to bind the European Union.Article 3This Decision shall be published in the Official Journal of European Union.Article 4This Decision shall take effect on the day of its adoption.Done at Brussels, 11 December 2003.For the CouncilThe PresidentF. Frattini(1) OJ L 249, 1.10.2003, p. 66.


title: 2008/422/EC: Council Decision of 5 June 2008 on declassifying Annex 4 to the SIRENE Manual adopted by the Executive Committee established by the Convention implementing the Schengen Agreement of 14 June 1985 (1990 Schengen Convention)

text:
               7.6.2008

               EN

               Official Journal of the European Union

               L 149/78

      COUNCIL DECISION

   of 5 June 2008
   on declassifying Annex 4 to the SIRENE Manual adopted by the Executive Committee established by the Convention implementing the Schengen Agreement of 14 June 1985 (1990 Schengen Convention)
   (2008/422/EC)
   THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,
   Having regard to the Treaty establishing the European Community, and in particular Article 207, paragraph (3) thereof,
   Whereas,

               (1)

               By Decision 2003/19/EC of 14 October 2002 on declassifying certain parts of the SIRENE Manual adopted by the Executive Committee established by the Convention implementing the Schengen Agreement of 14 June 1985 (1) the Council declassified certain parts of the SIRENE Manual and downgraded Section 2.3 of the SIRENE Manual as well as Annexes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 thereto to the classification level ‘Restreint UE’.

               (2)

               The latest version of the SIRENE Manual as it appears in Commission Decisions 2006/757/EC (2) and 2006/758/EC (3) of 22 September 2006 on amending the SIRENE Manual does not contain a provision equivalent to Section 2.3 as it stood at the time of the adoption of Decision 2003/19/EC.

               (3)

               By Decision 2007/473/EC of 25 June 2007 on declassifying certain parts of the SIRENE Manual adopted by the Executive Committee established by the Convention implementing the Schengen Agreement of 14 June 1985 (4) the Council declassified Annexes 2 and 5 to the SIRENE Manual.

               (4)

               The Council now considers it appropriate to declassify Annex 4 to the SIRENE Manual.

               (5)

               The classification of Annexes 1, 3 and 6 to the SIRENE Manual should remain ‘Restreint UE’,

         HAS DECIDED AS FOLLOWS:
   Article 1
   The Annex 4 to the SIRENE Manual shall be declassified.
   Article 2
   This Decision shall take effect on the day of its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union.
   Article 3
   This Decision shall be published in the Official Journal of the European Union.

      Done at Luxembourg, 5 June 2008.

            For the Council

            The President

         D. MATE

      (1)  OJ L 8, 14.1.2003, p. 34.

      (2)  OJ L 317, 16.11.2006, p. 1.

      (3)  OJ L 317, 16.11.2006, p. 41.

      (4)  OJ L 179, 7.7.2007, p. 52.


title: Council Decision 2011/427/CFSP of 18 July 2011 extending the mandate of the European Union Special Representative in Afghanistan

text:
               19.7.2011

               EN

               Official Journal of the European Union

               L 188/34

         COUNCIL DECISION 2011/427/CFSP
   of 18 July 2011
   extending the mandate of the European Union Special Representative in Afghanistan
   THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,
   Having regard to the Treaty on European Union, and in particular Article 28, Article 31(2) and Article 33 thereof,
   Having regard to the proposal from the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy,
   Whereas:

               (1)

               On 22 March 2010, the Council adopted Decision 2010/168/CFSP (1) appointing Mr Vygaudas UŠACKAS as European Union Special Representative (‘EUSR’) in Afghanistan.

               (2)

               The mandate of the EUSR should be extended until 30 June 2012.

               (3)

               The EUSR will implement his mandate in the context of a situation which may deteriorate and could impede the achievement of the objectives of the Union’s external action as set out in Article 21 of the Treaty,

         HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:
   Article 1
   European Union Special Representative
   The mandate of Mr Vygaudas UŠACKAS as the European Union Special Representative (‘EUSR’) in Afghanistan is hereby extended until 30 June 2012. The mandate of the EUSR may be terminated earlier, if the Council so decides, upon a proposal from the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy (‘HR’).
   Article 2
   Policy objectives
   The EUSR shall represent the European Union and promote Union policy objectives in Afghanistan, in close coordination with Member States’ representatives in Afghanistan. More specifically, the EUSR shall:

               (a)

               contribute to the implementation of the EU-Afghanistan Joint Declaration and lead the implementation of the EU Action Plan on Afghanistan and Pakistan, in so far as it concerns Afghanistan, thereby working with Member States’ representatives in Afghanistan;

               (b)

               support Union-Afghanistan political dialogue;

               (c)

               support the pivotal role played by the United Nations (‘UN’) in Afghanistan with particular emphasis on contributing to better coordinated international assistance, thereby promoting the implementation of the London and Kabul Conference Communiqués, as well as relevant UN Resolutions.

         Article 3
   Mandate
   In order to fulfil the mandate, the EUSR shall, in close cooperation with Member States’ representatives in Afghanistan:

               (a)

               promote the views of the Union on the political process and developments in Afghanistan;

               (b)

               maintain close contact with, and support the development of, relevant Afghan institutions, in particular the government and the parliament as well as the local authorities. Contact should also be maintained with other Afghan political groups and other relevant actors in Afghanistan;

               (c)

               maintain close contact with relevant international and regional stakeholders in Afghanistan, notably the Special Representative of the Secretary-General of the UN and the Senior Civilian Representative of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation and other key partners and organisations;

               (d)

               advise on the progress achieved in meeting the objectives of the EU-Afghanistan Joint Declaration, of the EU Action Plan for Afghanistan and Pakistan, in so far as it concerns Afghanistan, and of the London, Kabul and forthcoming Bonn Conferences, in particular in the following areas:

                           —

                           civilian capacity building, notably at sub-national level,

                           —

                           good governance and the establishment of institutions necessary for the existence of the rule of law, in particular an independent judiciary,

                           —

                           electoral reforms,

                           —

                           security sector reforms, including the strengthening of judicial institutions, the national army and the police force,

                           —

                           promotion of growth, namely through agriculture and rural development,

                           —

                           respect for Afghanistan’s international human rights obligations, including respect for the rights of persons belonging to minorities and the rights of women and children,

                           —

                           respect of democratic principles and the rule of law,

                           —

                           fostering participation by women in public administration and civil society,

                           —

                           respect for Afghanistan’s international obligations, including cooperation in international efforts to combat terrorism, illicit drug trafficking, trafficking in human beings and proliferation of arms and weapons of mass destruction and related materials,

                           —

                           facilitation of humanitarian assistance and the orderly return of refugees and internally displaced persons, and

                           —

                           enhancing the effectiveness of Union presence and activities in Afghanistan and contributing to the formulation of the regular 6-monthly implementation reports on the EU Action Plan, as requested by the Council;

               (e)

               actively participate in local coordination forums such as the Joint Coordination and Monitoring Board, while keeping non-participating Member States fully informed of decisions taken at these levels;

               (f)

               advise on the participation and the positions of the Union in international conferences with regard to Afghanistan and contribute to promoting regional cooperation;

               (g)

               contribute to the implementation of the Union’s human rights policy and the Union Guidelines on Human Rights, in particular with regard to women and children in conflict-affected areas, especially by monitoring and addressing developments in this regard.

         Article 4
   Implementation of the mandate
   1.   The EUSR shall be responsible for the implementation of the mandate, acting under the authority of the HR.
   2.   The Political and Security Committee (‘PSC’) shall maintain a privileged link with the EUSR and shall be the EUSR’s primary point of contact with the Council. The PSC shall provide the EUSR with strategic guidance and political direction within the framework of the mandate, without prejudice to the powers of the HR.
   3.   The EUSR shall work in close coordination with the European External Action Service (‘EEAS’).
   Article 5
   Financing
   1.   The financial reference amount intended to cover the expenditure related to the mandate of the EUSR in the period from 1 September 2011 to 30 June 2012 shall be EUR 3 560 000.
   2.   The expenditure shall be managed in accordance with the procedures and rules applicable to the general budget of the Union.
   3.   The management of the expenditure shall be subject to a contract between the EUSR and the Commission. The EUSR shall be accountable to the Commission for all expenditure.
   Article 6
   Constitution and composition of the team
   1.   Within the limits of his mandate and the corresponding financial means made available, the EUSR shall be responsible for constituting his team. The team shall include the expertise on specific policy issues as required by the mandate. The EUSR shall promptly and regularly inform the Council and the Commission of the composition of his team.
   2.   Member States, institutions of the Union and the EEAS may propose the secondment of personnel to work with the EUSR. The salary of such seconded personnel shall be covered by the Member State, the institution of the Union concerned or the EEAS, respectively. Experts seconded by Member States to the institutions of the Union or the EEAS may also be posted to work with the EUSR. Internationally contracted personnel shall have the nationality of a Member State.
   3.   All seconded personnel shall remain under the administrative authority of the sending Member State, institution of the Union or the EEAS and shall carry out their duties and act in the interest of the mandate of the EUSR.
   Article 7
   Privileges and immunities of the EUSR and his personnel
   The privileges, immunities and further guarantees necessary for the completion and smooth functioning of the mission of the EUSR and the members of his staff shall be agreed with the host party or parties, as appropriate. Member States and the Commission shall grant all necessary support to such effect.
   Article 8
   Security of EU classified information
   The EUSR and the members of his team shall respect the security principles and minimum standards established by Council Decision 2011/292/EU of 31 March 2011 on the security rules for protecting EU classified information (2).
   Article 9
   Access to information and logistical support
   1.   Member States, the Commission and the General Secretariat of the Council shall ensure that the EUSR is given access to any relevant information.
   2.   Union delegations and/or Member States, as appropriate, shall provide logistical support in the region.
   Article 10
   Security
   In accordance with the Union’s policy on the security of personnel deployed outside the Union in an operational capacity under Title V of the Treaty, the EUSR shall take all reasonably practicable measures, in conformity with his mandate and the security situation in his geographical area of responsibility, for the security of all personnel under his direct authority, notably by:

               (a)

               establishing a mission-specific security plan, including mission-specific physical, organisational and procedural security measures, governing management of the secure movement of personnel to, and within, the mission area, as well as management of security incidents and a mission contingency and evacuation plan;

               (b)

               ensuring that all personnel deployed outside the Union are covered by high-risk insurance as required by the conditions in the mission area;

               (c)

               ensuring that all members of his team to be deployed outside the Union, including locally contracted personnel, have received appropriate security training before or upon arriving in the mission area, based on the risk ratings assigned to the mission area;

               (d)

               ensuring that all agreed recommendations made following regular security assessments are implemented and providing the HR, the Council and the Commission with written reports on their implementation and on other security issues within the framework of the mid-term and mandate implementation reports.

         Article 11
   Reporting
   The EUSR shall regularly provide the HR and the PSC with oral and written reports. The EUSR shall also report, as necessary, to Council working parties. Regular written reports shall be circulated through the COREU network. Upon recommendation of the HR or the PSC, the EUSR shall provide the Foreign Affairs Council with reports.
   Article 12
   Coordination
   1.   The EUSR shall promote overall Union political coordination. He shall help ensure that all Union instruments in the field are engaged coherently to attain the Union’s policy objectives. The activities of the EUSR shall be coordinated with those of the Commission, as well as with those of the EUSR for Central Asia and with the Union’s Delegation in Pakistan. The EUSR shall provide Member States’ missions and Union delegations with regular briefings.
   2.   In the field, close liaison shall be maintained with the Heads of the Union delegations and Member States’ Heads of Mission. They shall make every effort to assist the EUSR in the implementation of the mandate. The EUSR shall provide the Head of the EU Police Mission in Afghanistan (EUPOL AFGHANISTAN) with local political guidance. The EUSR and the Civilian Operation Commander shall consult each other as required. The EUSR shall also liaise with other international and regional actors in the field.
   Article 13
   Review
   The implementation of this Decision and its consistency with other contributions from the Union to the region shall be kept under regular review. The EUSR shall present the HR, the Council and the Commission with a progress report at the end of January 2012 and a comprehensive mandate implementation report at the end of the mandate.
   Article 14
   Entry into force
   This Decision shall enter into force on the day of its adoption.

      Done at Brussels, 18 July 2011.

            For the Council

            The President

         C. ASHTON

      (1)  OJ L 75, 23.3.2010, p. 22.

      (2)  OJ L 141, 27.5.2011, p. 17.


Avis juridique important

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32003D0855

2003/855/EC: Commission Decision of 9 December 2003 terminating the transitional product-specific safeguard proceeding concerning imports of certain prepared or preserved citrus fruits (namely mandarins, etc.) originating in the People's Republic of China

Official Journal L 323 , 10/12/2003 P. 0011 - 0012

Commission Decisionof 9 December 2003terminating the transitional product-specific safeguard proceeding concerning imports of certain prepared or preserved citrus fruits (namely mandarins, etc.) originating in the People's Republic of China(2003/855/EC)THE COMMISSION OF THE EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES,Having regard to the Treaty establishing the European Community,Having regard to Council Regulation (EC) No 427/2003 of 3 March 2003 on a transitional product specific safeguard mechanism for imports originating in the People's Republic of China and amending Regulation (EC) No 519/94 on common rules for imports from certain third countries(1), and in particular Article 8 thereof,After consultations within the Advisory Committee established under Article 15 of Regulation (EC) No 427/2003,Whereas:(1) On 20 June 2003, the Spanish Government informed the Commission that prepared or preserved citrus fruits (namely mandarins, etc.) (hereafter referred to as "mandarins") originating in the People's Republic of China (PRC) were being imported into the Community in such increased quantities as to cause or threaten to cause market disruption to the Community industry, submitted information containing the evidence available as determined on the basis of the criteria laid down in Articles 1 and 2 of that regulation, and informed the Commission that trends in imports appeared to call for safeguard measures provided for by Regulations (EC) No 519/94(2) and (EC) No 3285/94(3).(2) Spain provided evidence that imports into the EC of the product concerned, originating in China, were increasing rapidly both in absolute terms, and relative to Community production and consumption, and, in particular, that imports had increased rapidly in recent years.(3) Spain alleged that the increase in the volume of imports of the product concerned had, among other consequences, had a negative impact on the prices of like or directly competitive products in the Community, and on the market share held and the quantities sold by the Community industry, resulting in damage to the Community industry.(4) Spain further advised that, based on the information submitted by the Community industry, any delay in the adoption of safeguard measures by the European Community would cause damage which it would be difficult to repair, and urged their adoption as a matter of urgency.(5) Spain also requested that the Commission initiate a safeguard investigation and take provisional safeguard measures under Council Regulations (EC) No 519/94 and (EC) No 3285/94.(6) The Commission informed all Member States of the situation and consulted with them on the terms and conditions of imports, import trends and the evidence as to material injury or threat thereof, and the various aspects of the economic and commercial situation with regard to the Community product in question.(7) On 11 July 2003, the Commission initiated an investigation relating to serious injury or threat thereof to the Community producers of the product like or directly competing with the imported product. That investigation was based on Regulation (EC) No 427/2003 (the "TPSSM investigation") and also on Council Regulations (EC) No 519/94 and (EC) No 3285/94 (the general erga omnes safeguard investigation).(8) On 8 November 2003, the Commission published Regulation (EC) No 1964/2003(4) imposing provisional safeguard measures against imports of certain prepared or preserved citrus fruits (namely mandarins, etc.) on the basis of its preliminary findings in the general erga omnes safeguard investigation. The general erga omnes safeguard investigation is continuing with a view to establishing whether or not definitive safeguard measures are justified, and, if so, the form and content of such measures. As the provisional measures imposed in the context of the general erga omnes safeguard investigation were considered sufficient to protect the Community industry, no provisional measures were imposed on the basis of the TPSSM investigation.(9) The Commission considers it is not in the Community interest to continue with two proceedings which are different in their conditions and their possible outcome.(10) Therefore, continuing the investigation with a view to taking a safeguard measure under Council Regulation (EC) No 427/2003 is not appropriate and therefore not necessary. No objection having been raised within the Advisory Committee, the Commission considers that the TPSSM investigation should be terminated without measures,HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:Sole ArticleThe safeguard investigation under Regulation (EC) No 427/2003 initiated by the Commission on 11 July 2003 is hereby terminated.Done at Brussels, 9 December 2003.For the CommissionPascal LamyMember of the Commission(1) OJ L 65, 8.3.2003, p. 1.(2) OJ L 67, 10.3.1994, p. 89, as last amended by Council Regulation (EC) No 427/2003 (OJ L 65, 8.3.2003, p. 1).(3) OJ L 349, 31.12.1994, p. 53, as last amended by Regulation (EC) No 2474/2000 (OJ L 286, 11.11.2000, p. 1).(4) OJ L 290, 8.11.2003, p. 3.


title: 2008/509/EC: Decision of the European Parliament of 24 April 2007 on the discharge for implementation of the budget of the European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions for the financial year 2005

text:
               15.7.2008

               EN

               Official Journal of the European Union

               L 187/85

         DECISION OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT
   of 24 April 2007
   on the discharge for implementation of the budget of the European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions for the financial year 2005
   (2008/509/EC)
   THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT,
   having regard to the final annual accounts of the European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions for the financial year 2005 (1),
   having regard to the Court of Auditors' report on the final annual accounts of the European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions for the financial year 2005, together with the Foundation's replies (2),
   having regard to the Council's Recommendation of 27 February 2007 (5711/2007 — C6-0080/2007),
   having regard to the EC Treaty, and in particular Article 276 thereof,
   having regard to Council Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 1605/2002 of 25 June 2002 on the Financial Regulation applicable to the general budget of the European Communities (3), and in particular Article 185 thereof,
   having regard to Council Regulation (EEC) No 1365/75 of 26 May 1975 on the creation of a European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions (4), and in particular Article 16 thereof,
   having regard to Commission Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 2343/2002 of 19 November 2002 on the framework Financial Regulation for the bodies referred to in Article 185 of Council Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 1605/2002 (5), and in particular Article 94 thereof,
   having regard to Rule 71 of and Annex V to its Rules of Procedure,
   having regard to the Report of the Committee on Budgetary Control and the opinion of the Committee on Employment and Social Affairs (A6-0098/2007),

               1.

               Grants the executive director of the European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions discharge for the implementation of the Foundation's budget for the financial year 2005;

               2.

               Sets out its observations in the Resolution below;

               3.

               Instructs its President to forward this Decision and the Resolution that forms an integral part of it to the executive director of the European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions, the Council, the Commission and the Court of Auditors, and to arrange for their publication in the Official Journal of the European Union (L series).

            The President

         Hans-Gert PÖTTERING

            The Secretary-General

         Harald RØMER

      (1)  OJ C 266, 31.10.2006, p. 37.

      (2)  OJ C 312, 19.12.2006, p. 80.

      (3)  OJ L 248, 16.9.2002, p. 1. Regulation as amended by Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 1995/2006 (OJ L 390, 30.12.2006, p. 1).

      (4)  OJ L 139, 30.5.1975, p. 1. Regulation as last amended by Regulation (EC) No 1111/2005 (OJ L 184, 15.7.2005, p. 1).

      (5)  OJ L 357, 31.12.2002, p. 72.
    ---documentbreak---

               15.7.2008

               EN

               Official Journal of the European Union

               L 187/86

         RESOLUTION OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT
   of 24 April 2007
   with observations forming an integral part of the Decision on the discharge for implementation of the budget of the European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions for the financial year 2005
   THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT,
   having regard to the final annual accounts of the European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions for the financial year 2005 (1),
   having regard to the Court of Auditors' report on the final annual accounts of the European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions for the financial year 2005, together with the Foundation's replies (2),
   having regard to the Council's Recommendation of 27 February 2007 (5711/2007 — C6-0080/2007),
   having regard to the EC Treaty, and in particular Article 276 thereof,
   having regard to Council Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 1605/2002 of 25 June 2002 on the Financial Regulation applicable to the general budget of the European Communities (3), and in particular Article 185 thereof,
   having regard to Council Regulation (EEC) No 1365/75 of 26 May 1975 on the creation of a European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions (4), and in particular Article 16 thereof,
   having regard to Commission Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 2343/2002 of 19 November 2002 on the framework Financial Regulation for the bodies referred to in Article 185 of Council Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 1605/2002 (5), and in particular Article 94 thereof,
   having regard to Rule 71 of and Annex V to its Rules of Procedure,
   having regard to the Report of the Committee on Budgetary Control and the opinion of the Committee on Employment and Social Affairs (A6-0098/2007),

               A.

               whereas the Court of Auditors stated that it obtained reasonable assurance that the annual accounts for the financial year ended 31 December 2005 were reliable and that the underlying transactions, taken as a whole, were legal and regular,

               B.

               whereas on 27 April 2006 Parliament gave discharge to the director in respect of the implementation of the Foundation's budget for the 2004 financial year (6) and in the Resolution accompanying the discharge Decision Parliament, inter alia,

                           —

                           noted the Court of Auditors' finding that 37 % of appropriations carried over into 2005 related to commitments entered into in December 2004 and that the majority of these related contracts for studies to be carried out in 2005,

                           —

                           reminded the Foundation of the principle of budget annuality and urged it to respect this principle in order to allow a correct and transparent implementation of the budgets set by the Budgetary Authority;

         General points concerning the majority of EU Agencies requiring individual discharge

               1.

               Considers that the ever-growing number of Community Agencies and the activities of certain of them do not seem to form part of an overall policy framework, and that the remits of some Agencies do not always reflect the real needs of the Union or the expectations of its citizens, and notes that in general terms the Agencies do not always have a good image or a good press;

               2.

               Invites the Commission therefore to define an overall policy framework for the setting up of new Community Agencies and to present a cost-benefit study before the setting up of any new agency, while being careful to avoid any overlap of activities between Agencies or with the remits of other European organisations;

               3.

               Calls on the Court of Auditors to give its opinion on the cost-benefit study before Parliament takes its decision;

               4.

               Invites the Commission to present every five years a study on the added value of every existing Agency; invites all relevant institutions in the case of a negative evaluation of the added value of an Agency to take the necessary steps by reformulating the mandate of that Agency or by closing it;

               5.

               Considers it regrettable, given the growing number of regulatory agencies, that the negotiations on the draft interinstitutional agreement on the operating framework for the European regulatory agencies have not yet been concluded, and calls on the relevant departments of the Commission, in consultation with the Court of Auditors, to do their utmost to ensure that the agreement is brought to a rapid conclusion;

               6.

               Notes that the Commission's budgetary responsibility calls for closer linking of the Agencies to the Commission; calls on the Commission and the Council to take all necessary steps to give the Commission a blocking minority in the supervisory bodies of the regulatory Agencies by 31 December 2007 and to provide for such a minority from the outset when new Agencies are set up;

               7.

               Invites the Court of Auditors to create an additional chapter in its Annual Report, devoted to all Agencies to be discharged under the Commission's accounts in order to have a much clearer picture of the use of EU funds by Agencies;

               8.

               Recalls the principle according to which all Community Agencies, whether subsidised or not, are subject to discharge by the Parliament, even where a discharge authority exists by virtue of their constitutive texts;

               9.

               Calls on the Court of Auditors to perform performance audits for all Agencies and to report back to the relevant committees of Parliament, including the Committee on Budgetary Control;

               10.

               Notes that the number of Agencies is constantly increasing and that, in accordance with the Commission's political responsibility for the operation of the Agencies, which goes far beyond mere logistical support, there is an even higher need for the Directorates-General of the Commission charged with the setting up and monitoring of Agencies to develop a common approach to the Agencies; considers that a structure similar to the one created by the Agencies for coordination among the DGs concerned would be a pragmatic way forward towards a common approach by the Commission on all matters relating to the Agencies;

               11.

               Invites the Commission to improve administrative and technical support to the Agencies, taking into account the growing complexity of the Community's administrative rules and technical problems;

               12.

               Notes the lack of a disciplinary body in any of the Community Agencies, and calls on the Commission to take the necessary steps to ensure that such a mechanism is rapidly put in place;

               13.

               Welcomes the considerable improvements in the coordination among the Agencies, which allows them to tackle recurring problems and makes cooperation with the Commission and Parliament more efficient;

               14.

               Takes the view that the establishment by a number of Agencies of a shared support service aimed at making their computerised financial management systems consistent with those of the Commission is a measure that should be taken further and extended;

               15.

               Calls upon the Agencies to improve their cooperation and benchmarking with actors in the field; urges the Commission to adopt any measures it considers necessary to help the Agencies enhance their image and raise the profile of their activities;

               16.

               Calls upon the Commission to come up with a proposal to harmonise the format of the annual reporting by the Agencies and to develop performance indicators which would allow a comparison of their efficiency;

               17.

               Invites the Agencies to present at the beginning of every year performance indicators against which they could be measured;

               18.

               Invites all Agencies to increasingly use SMART objectives which should lead to more realistic planning and implementation of goals;

               19.

               Agrees with the Court of Auditors that the Commission also bears responsibility for the (financial) management of the Agencies; therefore, urges the Commission to monitor and where necessary direct and help the management of the different Agencies, especially in relation to the proper application of tender procedures, transparency of recruitment procedures, sound financial management (underspending and overbudgeting) and most importantly the proper application of the rules concerning the internal control framework;

               20.

               Considers that the Agencies' work programmes should express their contributions in operational and measurable terms and that due consideration should be given to the Commission's Internal Control Standards;

         Specific points

               21.

               Invites the Foundation to pay better attention to carry-over rates in 2005 in respect to commitments for administrative expenditure (Title II) and operating activities (Title III), which remained high at 37 % and 44 % respectively;

               22.

               Invites the Commission and the Foundation to continue to clarify the situation of non-cancelled appropriations;

               23.

               Invites the Foundation to present a work programme which expresses its contribution in operational and measurable terms;

               24.

               Considers the Foundation to be a source of important information for all EU institutions, for political decision-making and for the general public;

               25.

               Is worried that there was in 2005 no comprehensive document analysing the risks arising from the financial and operational aspects of the Foundation's activities, nor a validation of the procedures introduced by the Authorising Officers in order to ensure the accuracy and the exhaustivity of the financial information it sent to the Accounting Officer, except as regards data-processing aspects;

               26.

               Encourages the Foundation to continue its efforts to improve further its methods of communication in order to ensure that the public can be better informed about the findings of its studies and that the public debate on important issues, such as the effects and causes of restructuring measures by companies, is thereby enhanced.

      (1)  OJ C 266, 31.10.2006, p. 37.

      (2)  OJ C 312, 19.12.2006, p. 80.

      (3)  OJ L 248, 16.9.2002, p. 1. Regulation as amended by Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 1995/2006 (OJ L 390, 30.12.2006, p. 1).

      (4)  OJ L 139, 30.5.1975, p. 1. Regulation as last amended by Regulation (EC) No 1111/2005 (OJ L 184, 15.7.2005, p. 1).

      (5)  OJ L 357, 31.12.2002, p. 72.

      (6)  OJ L 340. 6.12.2006, p. 69.