### in view of the greater difficulty for contracting authorities / entities to assess , in the context of tenders comprising goods and / or services originating outside the european union , in which the value of the non - covered goods or services exceeds 50 % of the total value of these goods or services , the explanations of tenderers it is appropriate to provide for an increased transparency in the treatment of abnormally low tenders . in addition to the rules provided by article 69 of the directive on public procurement and article 79 of the directive on procurement by entities operating in the water , energy , transport and postal services sectors the contracting authority / entity that intends to accept such an abnormally low tender , should inform the other tenderers of this in writing including the reasons for the abnormally low character of the price or costs charged . this allows these tenderers to contribute to a more accurate assessment as to whether the successful tenderer will be able to fully perform the contract under the conditions spelled out in the tender documentation . therefore , this additional information would achieve a more level playing field on the eu public procurement market . ### in view of the greater difficulty for contracting authorities / entities to assess , in the context of tenders comprising goods and / or services originating outside the european union , in which the value of the non - covered goods or services exceeds 50 % of the total value of these goods or services , the explanations of tenderers it is appropriate to provide for an increased transparency in the treatment of abnormally low tenders . tenders that appear abnormally low in relation to the works , supplies or services might be based on technically , economically or legally unsound assumptions or practices . in addition to the rules provided by article 69 of directive 20xx / xxx / eu of the european parliament and of the council13a and article 79 of directive 20xx / xxx / eu of the european parliament and of the council13b the contracting authority / entity that intends to accept such an abnormally low tender , should inform the other tenderers of this in writing including the reasons for the abnormally low character of the price or costs charged . where the tenderer cannot provide a sufficient explanation , the contracting authority should be entitled to reject the tender . this allows these tenderers to contribute to a more accurate assessment as to whether the successful tenderer will be able to fully perform the contract under the conditions spelled out in the tender documentation . therefore , this additional information would achieve a more level playing field on the eu public procurement market . _________________ 13a directive 20xx / xxx / eu of the european parliament and of the council on public procurement ) . 13b directive 20xx / xxx / eu of the european parliament and of the council on procurement by entities operating in the water , energy , transport and postal services sectors ) .


### where the commission has , on the basis of information available to it , reason to believe that a third country has adopted or maintains a restrictive procurement practice , it should be able to start an investigation . if the existence of a restrictive procurement practice in a third country is confirmed the commission should invite the country concerned to enter into consultations with a view to improving the tendering opportunities for economic operators , goods and services in public procurement in that country . ### where the commission has , on the basis of information available to it , reason to believe that a third country has adopted or maintains a restrictive procurement practice or continues to violate fundamental workers ' rights and international law , including fundamental international conventions in the field of labour , social and environmental law , including ilo convention no . 94 , it should be able to start an investigation . if the existence of a restrictive procurement practice or of the above mentioned violations in a third country is confirmed the commission should invite the country concerned to enter into consultations with a view to improving the tendering opportunities for economic operators , goods and services in public procurement in that country .


### if the consultations with the country concerned do not lead to sufficient improvement in the tendering opportunities for eu economic operators , goods and services , the commission should take appropriate restrictive measures . ### if the consultations with the country concerned do not lead to sufficient improvement in the tendering opportunities for eu economic operators , goods and services within a reasonable timeframe or remedial / corrective measures taken by the third country concerned are not considered satisfactory , the commission should take appropriate restrictive measures .


### such measures may entail the mandatory exclusion of certain third - country goods and services from public procurement procedures in the european union , or may subject tenders made up of goods or services originating in that country to a mandatory price penalty . to avoid circumvention of these measures , it may also be necessary to exclude certain foreign - controlled or owned juridical persons established in the european union , that are not engaged in substantive business operations such that it has a direct and effective link with the economy of a member state concerned . appropriate measures should not be disproportionate to the restrictive procurement practices to which they respond . ### such measures may entail the mandatory exclusion of certain third - country goods and services from public procurement procedures in the european union , or may subject tenders made up of goods or services originating in that country to a mandatory price penalty . to avoid circumvention of these measures , it may also be necessary to exclude certain foreign - controlled or owned juridical persons established in the european union , that are not engaged in substantive business operations such that it has a direct and effective link with the economy of a member state concerned . appropriate measures should not be disproportionate to the restrictive procurement practices to which they respond . they should in particular take into account possible negative impacts on the social , labour and environmental situation in the country concerned , in particular in case of developing countries .


### in the light of the overall policy of the union with regard to least - developed countries as provided for , inter alia , in council regulation no 732 / 2008 of 22 july 2008 applying a scheme of generalised tariff preferences from 1 january 2009 , it is appropriate to assimilate goods and services from these countries to union goods and services . ### in the light of the overall policy objective of the union to support the economic growth of developing countries and their integration into the global value chain , which is the basis for the establishment by the union of a generalised system of preferences as outlined in the european parliament and council regulation no 978 / 2012 , it is appropriate to assimilate goods and services from least - developed countries benefitting from the ' everything but arms ' arrangement as well as goods and services from developing countries considered to be vulnerable due to a lack of diversification and insufficient integration within the international trading system as defined respectively in annexes iv and vii to the european parliament and council regulation no 978 / 2012 applying a scheme of generalised tariff preferences , to union goods and services .


### in order to reflect in the legal order of the european union the international market access commitments undertaken in the field of public procurement after the adoption of this regulation , the commission should be empowered to adopt acts in accordance with article 290 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union amendments to the list of international agreements annexed to this regulation . it is of particular importance that the commission should carry out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work , including at expert level . the commission , when preparing and drawing up delegated acts , should ensure simultaneous , timely and appropriate transmission of relevant documents to the european parliament and the council . ### in order to reflect in the legal order of the european union the international market access commitments undertaken in the field of public procurement and concessions after the adoption of this regulation , the commission should be empowered to adopt acts in accordance with article 290 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union amendments to the list of international agreements annexed to this regulation . it is of particular importance that the commission should carry out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work , including at expert level . the commission , when preparing and drawing up delegated acts , should ensure a simultaneous , timely and appropriate transmission of relevant documents to the european parliament and to the council .


### the commission should report at least every three years on the application of this regulation . ### the commission should report at least every three years on the application of this regulation . in its report , the commission should assess the functioning of the regulation as well as the progress made in achieving reciprocity in the opening of public procurement markets . together with the second report on the application of this regulation , due at the latest six years following the regulation ' s entry into force , the commission should either submit a proposal to improve the regulation or set out the reasons why , in the commission ' s view , no changes to this regulation are needed . in the event that the commission neither submits a proposal nor sets out the reasons why no changes are needed to this regulation , this regulation should cease to apply .


### ‘ covered goods or services’ means a good or service originating in a country with which the union has concluded an international agreement in the field of public procurement including market access commitments and in respect of which the relevant agreement applies . annex i to this regulation contains a list of relevant agreements ; ### ‘ covered goods or services’ means a good or service originating in a country with which the union has concluded an international agreement in the field of public procurement and concessions including market access commitments and in respect of which the relevant agreement applies . annex i to this regulation contains a list of relevant agreements ; ; adoption of the regulation will entail technical changes throughout the text . )


### ‘ covered goods or services’ means a good or service originating in a country with which the union has concluded an international agreement in the field of public procurement including market access commitments and in respect of which the relevant agreement applies . annex i to this regulation contains a list of relevant agreements ; ### ‘ covered goods or services’ means a good or service originating in a country with which the union has concluded an international agreement in the field of public procurement including market access commitments and in respect of which the relevant agreement applies . annex i to this regulation contains a list of relevant agreements and information on effective scope of procurement covered by them ;


### the origin of a good shall be determined in accordance with article 22 to 26 of regulation no 2913 / 1992 of the european parliament and of the council of 12 october 1992 establishing the community customs code18 . __________________ 18 oj l 302 , 19 . 10 . 1992 , p . 1 ### the origin of a good shall be determined in accordance with regulation no xxxx / yyyy of the european parliament and of the council of . . . . laying down the union customs code1 x . __________________ 1 x 2012 / 0027


### when awarding contracts for the execution of works and / or a work , the supply of goods or the provision of services , contracting authorities / entities shall treat covered goods and services equally to goods and services originating in the european union . ### without prejudice to articles 10 and 11 , when awarding contracts for the supply of covered goods or the provision of covered services , contracting authorities / entities shall treat economic operators from third countries equally to economic operators originating in the eu to the extend , in which offered by them services and goods are covered according to annex i .


### treatment of covered goods and services when awarding contracts for the execution of works and / or a work , the supply of goods or the provision of services , contracting authorities / entities shall treat covered goods and services equally to goods and services originating in the european union . goods or services originating in least - developed countries listed in annex i to regulation no 732 / 2008 shall be treated as covered goods and services . ### general provisions when awarding contracts for the execution of works and / or a work , the supply of goods or the provision of services , contracting authorities / entities shall treat covered goods and services equally to goods and services originating in the european union . goods or services originating in the following classifications of third countries shall be treated as covered goods and services : least - developed countries listed in annex i to regulation no 732 / 2008 ; countries that have been classified by the world bank as a low - income country during three consecutive years . 2 . member states or their contracting authorities / entities shall not restrict the access of non - covered goods or services to their tendering procedures by any measure other than those provided for in this regulation . 3 . non - covered goods and services may be subject to restrictive measures taken by the commission according to the rules set out in articles 10 and 11 .


### where contracting authorities / entities receive tenders that meet the conditions of paragraph 1 for which they intend to request the exclusion for that reason , they shall notify the commission . during the notification procedure the contracting authority / entity may continue its analysis of the tenders . ### where contracting authorities / entities receive tenders that meet the conditions of paragraph 1 for which they intend to request the exclusion for that reason , they shall notify the commission within one week . during the notification procedure the contracting authority / entity may continue its analysis of the tenders .


### that information shall be provided within eight working days , commencing on the first working day following the date on which it receives the request for additional information . if the commission receives no information within this period the period established in paragraph 3 shall be suspended , until the commission receives the requested information . ### that information shall be provided within eight calendar days , commencing on the first calendar day following the date on which it receives the request for additional information . if the commission receives no information within this period the period established in paragraph 3 shall be suspended , until the commission receives the requested information .


### where the commission considers it to be in the interest of the union , it may at any time , on its own initiative or upon application of interested parties or a member state , may initiate an external procurement investigation into alleged restrictive procurement measures . ### the commission shall , upon application of interested parties , a contracting authority / entity or member state , initiate an external investigation into an alleged lack of substantial reciprocity as regards procurement . should the commission decline to initiate an investigation , it shall justify its decision to the member state , interested party or the contracting entity that submitted the application .


### where the commission considers it to be in the interest of the union , it may at any time , on its own initiative or upon application of interested parties or a member state , may initiate an external procurement investigation into alleged restrictive procurement measures . ### where an intended exclusion has been approved in accordance with article 6 of this regulation , the commission shall initiate an external investigation into alleged restrictive procurement measures . 2 . furthermore , where the commission considers it to be in the interest of the union , it may at any time , on its own initiative or upon application of interested parties , a contracting authority / entity or a member state , initiate an external procurement investigation into alleged restrictive procurement measures .


### where the commission considers it to be in the interest of the union , it may at any time , on its own initiative or upon application of interested parties or a member state , may initiate an external procurement investigation into alleged restrictive procurement measures . ### the commission may at any time , on its own initiative or upon application of interested parties , contracting authority / entity or a member state , may initiate an external procurement investigation into alleged restrictive procurement measures .


### the commission may terminate the consultation if the country concerned undertakes international commitments agreed with the union in any of the following frameworks : ### the commission may terminate the consultation if : - corrective measures have been adopted by the country concerned - the country concerned undertakes international commitments agreed with the union with no exclusion or derogation in respect of the areas being investigated under article 8 in any of the following frameworks :


### where it is found in an investigation pursuant to article 8 , and after following the procedure foreseen in article 9 , that restrictive procurement measures adopted or maintained by that third country leads to an lack of substantial reciprocity in market opening between the union and the third country as referred to in article 6 , the commission may adopt implementing acts to temporarily limit the access of non - covered goods and services originating in a third country . those implementing acts shall be adopted in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in article 17 . ### where it is found in an investigation pursuant to article 8 , and after following the procedure foreseen in article 9 , that restrictive procurement measures adopted or maintained by that third country leads to an lack of substantial reciprocity in market opening between the union and the third country as referred to in article 6 , the commission may adopt implementing acts to temporarily limit for up to five years the access of non - covered goods and services originating in a third country . those implementing acts shall be adopted in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in article 17 .


### contracting authorities / entities may decide not to apply the measures pursuant to article 10 with respect to a procurement procedure if : ### contracting authorities / entities may request the commission not to apply the measures pursuant to article 10 with respect to a procurement procedure if :


### where a contracting authority / entity intends not to apply measures adopted pursuant to article 10 of this regulation , or reinstated pursuant to article 11 , it shall indicate its intention in the contract notice that it shall publish pursuant to article 35 of directive 2004 / 18 / ec or article 42 of directive 2004 / 17 / ec . it shall notify the commission no later than ten calendar days after the publication of the contract notice . ### where a contracting authority / entity intends not to apply measures adopted pursuant to article 10 of this regulation , or reinstated pursuant to article 11 , it shall indicate its intention in the contract notice that it shall publish pursuant to article 35 of directive 2004 / 18 / ec or article 42 of directive 2004 / 17 / ec .


### this notification shall be sent by electronic using a standard form . the commission shall adopt implementing acts establishing the standard forms for contract notices and notification in accordance with the advisory procedure referred to in article 17 . ### the commission shall adopt implementing acts establishing the standard forms for contract notices in accordance with the advisory procedure referred to in article 17 .


### the delegation of power referred to in article 14may be revoked at any time by the european parliament or by the council . a revocation decision shall put an end to the delegation of the power specified in that decision . it shall take effect on the day following the publication of the decision in the official journal of the european union or at a later date specified therein . it shall not affect the validity of any delegated acts already in force . ### the delegation of power referred to in article 14 may be revoked at any time by the european parliament or by the council . a revocation decision shall put an end to the delegation of the power specified in that decision . it shall take effect on the calendar day following the publication of the decision in the official journal of the european union or at a later date specified therein . it shall not affect the validity of any delegated acts already in force .


### by 1 january 2017 and at least every three years after the entry into force of this regulation , the commission shall submit a report to the european parliament and the council on the application of this regulation and on progress made in international negotiations regarding access for eu economic operators to public contract award procedures in third countries undertaken under this regulation . to this effect , member states shall upon request provide the commission with appropriate information . ### one year after entry into force of this regulation and thereafter at least every three years , the commission shall submit a report to the european parliament and the council on the application of this regulation and on progress made in international negotiations regarding access for eu economic operators to public contract award procedures in third countries undertaken under this regulation . to this effect , member states shall upon request provide the commission with appropriate information .


### articles 58 and 59 of directive 2004 / 17 / ec shall be repealed with effect from the entry into force of this regulation . ### articles 58 and 59 of directive 2004 / 17 / ec shall be repealed with effect from the entry into force of this regulation . the transitional period for the member states to repeal national provisions related to implementing articles 58 and 59 of directive 2004 / 17 / ec shall not exceed 6 months .


### the financing decisions should take the forms of annual or multiannual action programmes and individual measures when following the planning provided for by the multiannual indicative programming , of special measures where required by unforeseen and justified needs , and of support measures . ### the financing decisions should take the forms of either annual or multiannual action programmes and individual measures when following the planning provided for by the multiannual indicative programming , or special measures where required by unforeseen or justified needs , and of support measures as provided for in article 3 .


### taking into account the policy programming or financial execution nature of those implementing acts , in particular their budgetary implications , the examination procedure should in general be used for their adoption , except for measures of a small financial scale . however , the commission should adopt immediately applicable implementing acts where , in duly justified cases relating to the need for a swift response from the union , imperative grounds of urgency so requires . ### taking into account the policy programming or financial execution nature of those implementing acts , in particular their budgetary implications , the examination procedure should in general be used for their adoption , except for measures of a small financial scale . however , the commission should adopt immediately applicable implementing acts where , in duly justified cases relating to the need for a swift response from the union , imperative grounds of urgency so requires . the european parliament should be duly and promptly informed thereof . all measures adopted should also take into account the relevant provisions of regulation no [ . . . ] of the european parliament and of the council on the financial rules applicable to the annual budget of the union .


### while financing needs of the union’s external assistance are increasing , the economic and budgetary situation of the union limits the resources available for such assistance . the commission must therefore seek the most efficient use of available resources , in particular by using financial instruments that have a leverage effect . such leverage effect is increased by allowing funds invested and generated by the financial instruments to be used and re - used . ### while financing needs of the union’s external assistance are increasing , the economic and budgetary situation of the union limits the resources available for such assistance . the commission should aim to create budgetary synergies between national , union , multilateral and international measures and existing instruments by avoiding any potential overlap , and must therefore seek the most efficient use of available resources without compromising the just and fair use of the union ' s resources , in particular by using financial instruments that have a leverage effect , allowing funds invested and generated by the financial instruments to be used and re - used in accordance with the relevant provisions of the financialrules .


### further provisions should be made for financing methods , the protection of the union ' s financial interests , rules on nationality and origin , and evaluation of the instruments , ### further provisions should be made for financing methods , the protection of the union ' s financial interests , rules on nationality and origin , evaluation of actions , reporting and review and evaluation of the instruments .


### in applying this regulation , the commission shall , where possible and appropriate in light of the nature of the action , favour the use of the most flexible procedures in order to ensure an effective and efficient implementation . ### in applying this regulation , the commission shall , where possible and appropriate in light of the nature of the action , favour the use of the most flexible procedures in order to ensure an effective and efficient implementation without compromising the rightful use of union funds and without prejudice to the powers of the budgetary authority .


### the commission shall adopt annual or multi - annual action programmes , where required based on the indicative programming documents referred to in the applicable instrument . ### the commission shall adopt annual or multi - annual action programmes , where required based on the general and global axes envisaged in the indicative programming documents referred to in the applicable instrument .


### appropriate environmental screening , including for climate change and biodiversity impacts , shall be undertaken at project level including where applicable environmental impact assessment for environmentally sensitive projects , in particular for major new infrastructure . where relevant , strategic environmental assessments shall be used in the implementation of sectoral programmes . the involvement of interested stakeholders in environmental assessments and public access to the results shall be ensured . ### appropriate environmental screening shall be carried out in accordance with the legislation in force and the provisions of the environmental impact assessment directive . where relevant , strategic environmental assessments shall be used in the implementation of sectoral programmes . the eia shall be made publicly available and used in the decision - making process .


### provided that the activities listed in points , and are related to the general objectives of the applicable instrument implemented through the action , union financing may cover ### provided that the activities listed in points , and are directly linked to the general objectives of the applicable instrument implemented through the action , union financing may cover


### support measures may be financed outside the scope of indicative programming documents . where applicable , the commission shall adopt support measures in accordance with the advisory procedure referred to in article 15 . ### support measures may be financed in a way proportionate to their objectives outside the scope of indicative programming documents . where applicable , the commission shall adopt support measures in accordance with article 15 . in the event that the total amount of support measures exceeds the thresholds for small - scale financing , as referred to in article 2 , the commission shall adopt support measures in accordance with article 15 .


### contributions to the costs necessary to set up and administer a public - private partnership , and ### proportionate contributions to the costs necessary to set up and administer a public - private partnership , and


### budgetary commitments for actions under the ipa and the eni extending over more than one financial year may be broken down over several years into annual instalments . ### budgetary commitments for actions under the ipa , the dci , the partnership instrument for cooperation with third countries and the eni extending over more than one financial year may be broken down over several years into annual instalments .


### biennal report ### biennial report


### the biennal report shall contain information relating to the previous year on the measures financed , the results of monitoring and evaluation exercises , the involvement of the relevant partners , and the implementation of budgetary commitments and of payments appropriations . it shall assess the results of the union ' s financial assistance , using as far as possible , specific and measurable indicators of its role in meeting the objectives of the instruments . ### the biennial report shall contain information relating to the two previous years on the measures financed , the results of monitoring and evaluation exercises , the involvement of the relevant partners , and the implementation of budgetary commitments and of payments appropriations . it shall assess the results of the union ' s financial assistance , using as far as possible , specific and measurable indicators of its role in meeting the objectives of the instruments , including economic development and human rights .


### no later than 31 december 2017 , a report shall be established by the commission on the achievement of the objectives of each of the instruments by means of result and impact indicators measuring the efficiency of the use of resources and the european added value of the instruments , in view of a decision on the renewal , modification or suspension of the types of actions implemented under the instruments . the report shall , in addition , address the scope for simplification , internal and external coherence , the continued relevance of all objectives , as well as the contribution of the measures to the union priorities for smart , sustainable and inclusive growth . it shall take into account any findings and conclusions on the long - term impact of the instruments . ### no later than 31 december 2017 , a report shall be established by the commission on the achievement of the objectives of each of the instruments and on the overall performance of , and added value afforded by , this regulation , by means of transparent , clear and specific indicators measuring the efficiency of the use of resources and the european added value of the instruments , in view of a decision on the renewal , modification or suspension of the types of actions implemented under the instruments . the report shall , in addition , address the scope for simplification , internal and external coherence , the continued relevance of all objectives , as well as the contribution of the measures to the union priorities for smart , sustainable and inclusive growth . it shall take into account any findings and conclusions on the long - term impact of the instruments .


### this report shall be submitted to the european parliament and to the council , and shall be accompanied if appropriate , by legislative proposals introducing the necessary modifications to the instruments . ### this report shall be submitted to the european parliament and to the council , and shall be accompanied if appropriate , by legislative proposals introducing the necessary modifications to the instruments and to this regulation .


### research and innovation activities supported by horizon 2020 should respect fundamental ethical principles . the opinions of the european group on ethics in science and new technologies should be taken into account . research activities should also take into account article 13 tfeu and reduce the use of animals in research and testing , with a view ultimately to replacing animal use . all activities should be carried out ensuring a high level of human health protection in accordance with article 168 tfeu . ### research and innovation activities supported by horizon 2020 should respect fundamental ethical principles . the opinions of the european group on ethics in science and new technologies should be taken into account . research activities should also take into account article 13 tfeu and reduce the use of animals in research and testing , with a view ultimately to replacing animal use . research activities should also respect the constitutional and administrative provisions and customs of member states . all activities should be carried out ensuring a high level of human health protection in accordance with article 168 tfeu .


### linkages and interfaces shall be implemented across and within the priorities of horizon 2020 . particular attention shall be paid in this respect to the development and application of key enabling and industrial technologies , to bridging from discovery to market application , to cross - disciplinary research and innovation , to social and economic sciences and humanities , to fostering the functioning and achievement of the era , to cooperation with third countries , to responsible research and innovation including gender , and to enhancing the attractiveness of the research profession and to facilitating cross - border and cross - sector mobility of researchers . ### linkages and interfaces shall be implemented across and within the priorities of horizon 2020 . particular attention shall be paid in this respect to the development and application of key enabling and industrial technologies , to bridging from discovery to market application , to cross - disciplinary research and innovation , to social and economic sciences and humanities , to fostering the functioning and achievement of the era , to cooperation with third countries , to responsible research and innovation , and to enhancing the attractiveness of the research profession and to facilitating cross - border and cross - sector mobility of researchers .


### supporting the union ' s external and development policy objectives , complementing external and development programmes . ### supporting the union ' s external and development policy objectives as set out in the european consensus on development and agenda for change , complementing external and development programmes , and contributing to the fulfilment of international commitments in the field of sustainable development , in particular the achievement of the millennium development goals and their subsequently internationally agreed adaptations .


### infectious diseases , are a global concern , accounting for 41% of the 1 . 5 billion disability adjusted life years worldwide , with 8 % of these in europe . emerging epidemics and the threat of increasing anti - microbial resistance must also be prepared for . ### infectious diseases , accounting for 41 % of the 1 . 5 billion disability adjusted life years worldwide , with 8% of these in europe , are a global concern , as well as non - communicable diseases such as cancer . emerging epidemics and the threat of increasing anti - microbial resistance must also be prepared for .


### similarly , the complexity of the challenge and the interdependency of its components demand a european level response . many approaches , tools and technologies have applicability across many of the research and innovation areas of this challenge and are best supported at union level . these include the development of long term cohorts and the conduct of clinical trials , the clinical use of ‘ - omics’ or the development of ict and their applications in healthcare practice , notably e - health . the requirements of specific populations are also best addressed in an integrated manner , for example in the development of stratified and / or personalised medicine , in the treatment of rare diseases , and in providing assisted and independent living solutions . ### similarly , the complexity of the challenge and the interdependency of its components demand a european level response . many approaches , tools and technologies have applicability across many of the research and innovation areas of this challenge and are best supported at union level . these include international collaboration between researchers in order to acquire the necessary critical mass and expertise , the development of long term cohorts and the conduct of clinical trials , the clinical use of ' - omics ' or the development of ict and their applications in healthcare practice , notably e - health . the requirements of specific populations are also best addressed in an integrated manner , for example in the development of stratified and / or personalised medicine , in the treatment of poverty - related , neglected and rare and non - communicable diseases , and in providing assisted and independent living solutions .


### over the coming decades , europe will be challenged by increased competition for limited and finite natural resources , by the effects of climate change , in particular on primary production systems and by the need to provide a sustainable , safe and secure food supply for the european and an increasing global population . a 70% increase of the world food supply is estimated to be required to feed the 9 billion global population by 2050 . agriculture accounts for about 10% of union greenhouse gases emissions , and while declining in europe , global emissions from agriculture are projected to increase up to 20% by 2030 . furthermore , europe will need to ensure sufficient supplies of raw materials , energy and industrial products , under conditions of decreasing fossil carbon resources , while maintaining its competitiveness . bio - waste represents a huge problem and cost , despite its high potential added value . for example , an estimated 30% of all food produced in developed countries is discarded . major changes are needed to reduce this amount by 50% in the union by 2030 . in addition , national borders are irrelevant in the spread of animal and plant pests and diseases , including zoonotic diseases , and food borne pathogens . while effective national prevention measures are needed , action at union level is essential for ultimate control and the effective running of the single market . the challenge is complex , affects a broad range of interconnected sectors and requires a plurality of approaches . ### over the coming decades , europe will be challenged by increased competition for limited and finite natural resources , by the effects of climate change , in particular on primary production systems and by the need to provide a sustainable , safe and secure food supply for the european and an increasing global population . a 70% increase of the world food supply is estimated to be required to feed the 9 billion global population by 2050 . agriculture accounts for about 10% of union greenhouse gases emissions , and while declining in europe , global emissions from agriculture are projected to increase up to 20% by 2030 . furthermore , europe will need to ensure sustainable and sufficient supplies of raw materials , energy and industrial products , under conditions of decreasing fossil carbon resources , while maintaining its competitiveness . bio - waste represents a huge problem and cost , despite its high potential added value . for example , an estimated 30% of all food produced in developed countries is discarded . major changes are needed to reduce this amount by 50% in the union by 2030 . in addition , national borders are irrelevant in the spread of animal and plant pests and diseases , including zoonotic diseases , and food borne pathogens . while effective national prevention measures are needed , action at union level is essential for ultimate control and the effective running of the single market . the challenge is complex , affects a broad range of interconnected sectors and requires a plurality of approaches .


### research and innovation will interface with a wide spectrum of union policies and related targets , including the common agriculture policy and the european innovation partnership ‘ agricultural productivity and sustainability’ , the common fisheries policy , the integrated maritime policy , the european climate change programme , the water framework directive , the marine strategy framework directive , the forestry action plan , the soil thematic strategy , the union ' s 2020 biodiversity strategy , the strategic energy technology plan , the union ' s innovation and industrial policies , external and development aid policies , plant health strategies , animal health and welfare strategies and regulatory frameworks to protect the environment , health and safety , to promote resource efficiency and climate action , and to reduce waste . a better integration of research and innovation into related union policies will significantly improve their european added value , provide leverage effects , increase societal relevance and help to further develop sustainable land , seas and oceans management and bio - economy markets . ### research and innovation will interface with a wide spectrum of union policies and related targets , including the common agriculture policy and the european innovation partnership ' agricultural productivity and sustainability ' , the common fisheries policy , the integrated maritime policy , the european climate change programme , the water framework directive , the marine strategy framework directive , the forestry action plan , the soil thematic strategy , the union ' s 2020 biodiversity strategy , the strategic energy technology plan , the union ' s innovation and industrial policies , external and development aid policies , internationally agreed commitments on global food security , biodiversity and sustainable development , plant health strategies , animal health and welfare strategies and regulatory frameworks to protect the environment , health and safety , to promote resource efficiency and climate action , and to reduce waste . a better integration of the full cycle from basic research to innovation into related union policies will significantly improve their added value , provide leverage effects , increase societal relevance , provide healthy food products and help to further develop sustainable land , seas and oceans management and bio - economy markets .


### in order to secure the best possible use of union funds and to ensure european added value , the power to adopt acts in accordance with article 290 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union should be delegated to the commission in respect of eligibility criteria for project selection , criteria for the application of geographical balance to ‘ integrated projects’ , and performance indicators applicable to specific thematic priorities . it is of particular importance that the commission carry out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work , including at expert level . the commission , when preparing and drawing up delegated acts , should ensure a simultaneous , timely and appropriate transmission of relevant documents to the european parliament and to the council . ### in order to secure the best possible use of union funds and to ensure european added value , the power to adopt acts in accordance with article 290 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union should be delegated to the commission in respect of eligibility criteria for project selection , criteria for the application of geographical balance to ' integrated projects ' , and performance indicators applicable to specific thematic priorities . it is of particular importance that the commission carry out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work , including at expert level . the commission , when preparing and drawing up delegated acts , should ensure a simultaneous , timely and appropriate transmission of relevant documents to the european parliament and to the council . delegated acts , however , should be adopted only when appropriate , safeguarding the european parliament ' s right to object the measures adopted by the commission .


### to support communication , management , and dissemination of information in the field of environment , and to facilitate knowledge sharing on successful environmental solutions and practice , including by developing cooperation platforms between stakeholders and training ; ### to support communication , management , and dissemination of information in the field of environment , and to facilitate knowledge sharing on successful environmental solutions and practice , including by developing regional cooperation platforms between stakeholders and training


### the life programme may fund public and private bodies . ### the life programme may fund public bodies .


### the opening of the rail freight market has made it possible for new operators to enter the rail network . to optimise the use of the network and ensure its reliability it is useful to introduce additional procedures to strengthen cooperation on allocation of international train paths for freight trains between infrastructure managers ; ### although the opening of the rail freight market has made it possible for new operators to enter the rail network , market mechanisms have not been sufficient to organise , regulate and secure rail freight traffic . to optimise the use of the network and ensure its reliability it is useful to introduce additional procedures to strengthen cooperation on allocation of international train paths for freight trains between infrastructure managers ;


### in addition , the commission should be empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with article 290 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union in respect of the adaptation of annex ii . it is of particular importance that the commission consults experts during its preparatory work , in accordance with the commitments made in the commission communication of 9 december 2009 on the implementation of article 290 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union ; ### in addition , the commission should be empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with article 290 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union in respect of the creation and modification of freight corridors as well of the adaptation of annex i . it is of particular importance that the commission carries out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work , including at experts ' level ;


### this regulation lays down rules for the establishment and organisation of international rail corridors for a european rail network for competitive freight . it sets out rules for the selection , organisation and management of freight corridors . ### this regulation lays down rules for the establishment and organisation of international rail corridors for competitive rail freight with a view to the development of a european rail network for competitive freight . it sets out rules for the selection , organisation and management of freight corridors .


### this regulation shall apply to the management and use of railway infrastructure in freight corridors . ### this regulation shall apply to the management and use of railway infrastructure included in freight corridors .


### for each freight corridor , the infrastructure managers concerned and , where relevant , the allocation bodies as referred to in article 14 of directive 2001 / 14 / ec , shall establish a management board responsible for taking the measures as expressly provided for in paragraph 6 of this article and in articles 8 , 10 , 12 , 13 , and , 15 , 16 and 17 and of this regulation . the management board shall be composed of the representatives of the infrastructure managers . ### for each freight corridor , the infrastructure managers concerned and , where relevant , the allocation bodies as referred to in article 14 of directive 2001 / 14 / ec shall establish a management board responsible for taking the measures as expressly provided for in paragraph 6 this article and in articles 6 , 7 , 8 , 9 , 10 , 11 , 12 , 13 , 14 , 15 and 16 of this regulation the management board shall be composed of the representatives of the infrastructure managers . the interested railway undertakings or groupings of railway undertakings using the corridor regularly participate in this body on a consultative basis .


### the management board shall set up an advisory group made up of managers and owners of the terminals of the freight corridor . this advisory group may issue an opinion on any proposal by the management board which has direct consequences for investment and the management of terminals . the advisory group may also issue own initiative opinions . the management board shall take any of these opinions into account ### the management board shall set up an advisory group made up of managers and owners of the terminals of the freight corridor , including sea and inland waterway ports , as well as railway undertakings . this advisory group may issue an opinion on any proposal by the management board which has direct consequences for investment and the management of terminals . it may also issue own - initiative opinions . the management board shall take any of these opinions into account .


### the essential elements of the transport and traffic study referred to in paragraph 3 ; ### the essential elements of the market study referred to in paragraph 3 ;


### the management board shall periodically carry out a transport and traffic study relating to the observed and expected changes in the traffic in the freight corridor , covering the different types of traffic , both regarding the transport of freight and the transport of passengers . ### a market study shall be carried out and periodically updated relating to the observed and expected changes in the traffic in the freight corridor and those parts of the transport system which are connected to it , with a view to developing or adapting , if necessary , its implementation plan . it shall examine changes in the different types of traffic and include the main features of the socio - economic analysis referred to in article 2a , as well as the possible scenarios as regards costs and benefits and the long - term financial impact .


### the implementation plan shall take into account the development of terminals to meet the needs of rail freight running on the freight corridor . ### the implementation plan shall take into account – along with other measures – the development of terminals to meet the needs of rail freight running on the freight corridor . it must also take into account the implementation of appropriate safety measures for the transport of hazardous freight by rail . in particular , keepers of wagons for the transport of hazardous freight must entrust the maintenance of the wagons they own to certified maintenance workshops and take out minimum insurance cover of eur 150 million against accidents that may arise in the course of that transport .


### the management board shall introduce consultation mechanisms with a view to the proper participation of the applicants likely to use the freight corridor . in particular , it shall ensure that applicants are consulted before the implementation plan referred to in article 8 is submitted to the executive board . ### the management board shall introduce consultation mechanisms with a view to the proper participation of the applicants likely to use the freight corridor . in particular , it shall ensure that applicants including rail freight operators , passenger operators , shippers , forwarders and their representative bodies are consulted before the implementation plan referred to in article 8 is submitted to the executive board .


### the infrastructure managers concerned shall coordinate and publish , according to an appropriate manner and timeframe , their schedule for carrying out all the works on infrastructure and its equipment that would restrict available capacity on the freight corridor . ### the management board shall coordinate and publish , in accordance with an appropriate manner and timeframe and in line with article 6 of directive 2001 / 14 / ec , their schedule for carrying out all the works on the infrastructure and its equipment that would restrict available capacity on the network .


### member states shall cooperate on defining the framework for the allocation of the infrastructure capacity in the freight corridor in accordance with their competences as set&#160 ; out in article 14 of directive 2001 / 14 / ec . ### the management board of the freight corridor and the advisory group referred to in article 7 shall put in place procedures to ensure optimal coordination of the allocation of railway infrastructure capacity and terminal capacity .


### the management board shall evaluate the need for capacity to be allocated to freight trains running on the freight corridor taking into account the transport and traffic study referred to in article 8 of this regulation , the requests for infrastructure capacity relating to the past and present working timetables and the framework agreements . ### the management board shall evaluate the need for capacity to be allocated to freight trains running on the freight corridor taking into account the market study referred to in article 8 , the requests for infrastructure capacity relating to the past and present working timetables and the framework agreements .


### on the basis of the evaluation specified in paragraph 2 of this article , infrastructure managers of the freight corridor shall jointly define and organise international pre - arranged train paths for freight trains following the procedure referred to in article 15 of directive 2001 / 14 / ec recognising the need for capacity of other types of transport , including passenger transport . these pre arranged paths shall be published no later than three months before the final date for receipt of requests for capacity referred to in annex iii to directive 2001 / 14 / ec . the infrastructure managers of several freight corridors may , if necessary , coordinate international pre arranged train paths offering capacity on the freight corridors concerned . ### in addition to the cases referred to in article 20 of directive 2001 / 14 / ec , the management board shall maintain a reserve of capacity , on the basis of the evaluation specified in paragraph 2 . the management board shall publish the working timetable of the train paths needed to meet the requirements of international facilitated freight traffic for the coming financial year , prior to the annual exercise to define the working timetable referred to in article 18 of directive 2001 / 14 / ec and using as a basis the freight traffic observed and the market study referred to in article 8 .


### infrastructure managers shall , if justified by market need and the evaluation referred to in paragraph 2 of this article , jointly define the reserve capacity for international freight trains running on the freight corridors recognising the need for capacity of other types of transport , including passenger transport and keep this reserve available within their final working timetables to allow them to respond quickly and appropriately to ad hoc requests for capacity as referred to in article 23 of directive 2001 / 14 / ec . this capacity shall be reserved until the time - limit before its scheduled time as decided by the management board . this time limit shall not exceed 90 days . ### the management board shall keep , following the preliminary evaluation of the appropriate need to constitute a reserve of capacity for ad hoc requests , such a reserve , whilst guaranteeing a sufficient level of quality of the allocated train path for journey time and timetables adapted for international facilitated freight traffic , within the final working timetable to allow them to respond quickly and appropriately to ad hoc requests for capacity as referred to in article 23 of directive 2001 / 14 / ec . this capacity shall be reserved until the time limit before its scheduled time as decided by the management board . this time limit shall not exceed one month .


### save in the case of force majeure , a train path allocated to a freight operation under this article may not be cancelled less than one month before its scheduled time in the working timetable except if the applicant concerned gives its approval for such cancellation . in such a case the infrastructure manager concerned shall make an effort to propose to the applicant a train path of an equivalent quality and reliability which the applicant has the right to accept or refuse . this provision shall be without prejudice to any rights the applicant may have under an agreement as referred to in article 19 of directive 2001 / 14 / ec . ### save in the case of force majeure and in the event of safety - critical line closures and construction work required at short notice on the railway infrastructure , a train path allocated to a freight operation under this article may not be cancelled less than one month before its scheduled time in the working timetable except if the applicant concerned gives its approval for such cancellation . in such a case the infrastructure manager concerned shall make an effort to propose to the applicant a train path of an equivalent quality and reliability which the applicant has the right to accept or refuse . this provision shall be without prejudice to any rights the applicant may have under an agreement as referred to in article 19 of directive 2001 / 14 / ec .


### save in the case of force majeure , a train path allocated to a freight operation under this article may not be cancelled less than one month before its scheduled time in the working timetable except if the applicant concerned gives its approval for such cancellation . in such a case the infrastructure manager concerned shall make an effort to propose to the applicant a train path of an equivalent quality and reliability which the applicant has the right to accept or refuse . this provision shall be without prejudice to any rights the applicant may have under an agreement as referred to in article 19 of directive 2001 / 14 / ec . ### save in the case of force majeure , a train path allocated to a facilitated freight operation pursuant to this article may not be cancelled less than three months before its working timetable if the applicant concerned does not give its approval for such cancellation . in such a case the infrastructure manager concerned shall make an effort to propose to the applicant a train path of an equivalent quality and reliability which the applicant has the right to accept or refuse . this provision shall be without prejudice to any rights the applicant may have under an agreement as referred to in article 19 of directive 2001 / 14 / ec . in any case , the applicant may refer the matter to the regulatory body .


### infrastructure managers of the freight corridor shall put in place procedures for coordinating traffic management along the freight corridor and may put in place procedures for coordinating traffic management along several freight corridors . ### the management board of the freight corridor shall put in place procedures for coordinating traffic management along the freight corridor .


### the management board shall adopt common targets for punctuality and / or guidelines for traffic management in the event of disturbance to train movements on the freight corridor . ### the management board shall draw up and publish in the network statement referred to in article 3 of and annex i to directive 2001 / 14 / ec . the rules of priority between the different types of traffic in the event of traffic disruption in the freight corridor .


### the principles for establishing the priority rules shall at least provide that the train path referred to in article 13 and 13 allocated to freight trains which comply with their scheduled time in the working timetable shall not be modified , as far as possible . the principles for establishing the priority rules shall aim at minimising the overall network recovery time with regard to the need of all types of transport . for this purpose , infrastructure managers may coordinate the management between the different types of traffic along several freight corridors . ### the principles for establishing the priority rules shall at least provide , with the exception of peak hours where this paragraph shall not apply , that the train path referred to in article 13 and 13 allocated to freight trains which comply with their scheduled time in the working timetable shall not be modified , as far as possible . the principles for establishing the priority rules shall aim at minimising the overall network recovery time with regard to the need of all types of transport . for this purpose , infrastructure managers may coordinate the management between the different types of traffic along several freight corridors .


### the principles for establishing the priority rules shall at least provide that the train path referred to in article 13 and allocated to freight trains which comply with their scheduled time in the working timetable shall not be modified , as far as possible . the principles for establishing the priority rules shall aim at minimising the overall network recovery time with regard to the need of all types of transport . for this purpose , infrastructure managers may coordinate the management between the different types of traffic along several freight corridors . ### the principles for establishing the priority rules shall at least provide that the train path referred to in article 12a allocated to freight trains which comply with their scheduled time in the working timetable shall not be modified , as far as possible . the principles for establishing the priority rules shall aim at minimising the overall network recovery time with regard to the need of all types of transport . for this purpose , infrastructure managers may coordinate the management between the different types of traffic along several freight corridors .


### the information concerning the procedures referred to in articles 13 and 14 ; and ### the information concerning the procedures referred to in articles 12 , 13 , 13a , 14 and 15 ; and


### infrastructure managers of the freight corridor shall promote compatibility between the performance schemes referred to in article 11 of directive 2001 / 14 / ec . ### the management board of the freight corridor shall ensure consistency between the performance schemes along the freight corridor , as referred to in article 11 of directive 2001 / 14 / ec . this consistency shall be overseen by the regulatory bodies , which shall cooperate with regard to this oversight in accordance with article 18 .


### in the event of a complaint to a regulatory body from an applicant regarding international rail freight services , or within the framework of an own - initiative investigation by a regulatory body , this regulatory body shall consult the regulatory bodies of all other member states through which the international train path for freight train concerned runs and request all necessary information from them before taking its decision . ### in the event of a complaint from an applicant regarding international rail freight services , or within the framework of a routine enquiry , the regulatory body concerned shall consult the regulatory body of any other member state on the territory of which the freight corridor concerned passes and ask it for the necessary information before taking its decision . the other regulatory bodies shall provide all the information that they themselves have the right to request under their national legislation . where necessary , the regulatory body receiving the complaint or having initiated the routine enquiry shall transfer the file to the regulatory body responsible in order to take measures regarding the parties concerned in accordance with the procedure established in article 30 and of directive 2001 / 14 / ec .


### the power to adopt the delegated acts referred to in article 4 shall be conferred on the commission for a period of five years following the entry into force of this regulation . the commission shall make a report in respect of the delegated powers at the latest six months before the end of the five year period . the delegation of power shall be automatically extended for periods of an identical duration , unless the european parliament or the council revokes it in accordance with article 21 . ### the power to adopt the delegated acts referred to in articles 2a , 3 and 3 shall be conferred on the commission for a period of five years following the entry into force of this regulation . the commission shall make a report in respect of the delegated powers at the latest six months before the end of the five year period . the delegation of power shall be automatically extended for periods of an identical duration , unless the european parliament or the council revokes it in accordance with article 21 .


### the delegation of power referred to in article 20 may be revoked by the european parliament or by the council . ### the delegation of power referred to in article 20 may be revoked at any time by the european parliament or by the council .


### the institution which has commenced an internal procedure for deciding whether to revoke the delegation of power shall inform the other institution and the commission at the latest one month before the final decision is taken , stating the delegated powers which could be subject to revocation and the reasons for a revocation . ### the institution which has commenced an internal procedure for deciding whether to revoke the delegation of power shall endeavour to inform the other institution and the commission within a reasonable time before the final decision is taken , indicating the delegated powers which could be subject to revocation and possible reasons for a revocation .


### the european parliament or the council may object to the delegated act within a period of three months from the date of notification . ### the european parliament or the council may object to the delegated act within a period of two months from the date of notification .


### if , on expiry of that period , neither the european parliament nor the council has objected to the delegated act , or if , before that date , the european parliament and the council have both informed the commission that they have decided not to raise objections , the delegated act shall enter into force at the date stated therein . ### if , on expiry of that period , neither the european parliament nor the council has objected to the delegated act , it shall be published in the official journal of the european union and shall enter into force at the date stated therein .


### sines - lisboa / leixões - madrid - san sebastian - bordeaux - paris - metz sines - elvas / algeciras ### sines - lisboa / leixões - madrid - san sebastian - bordeaux - paris / le havre / metz sines - elvas / algeciras


### gdynia - katowice - ostrava / zilina - vienna - trieste / koper ### gdynia - warsaw - katowice - ostrava / zilina - bratislava / vienna - graz - klagenfurt - udine - venice / trieste - bologna / ravenna


### almeria - valencia / madrid - zaragoza / barcelona - marseille - lyon - turin - udine - trieste / koper - ljubljana - budapest - zahony ### almería - valencia / madrid - zaragoza / barcelona - marseille - lyon - turin - milan - verona - padua / venice - trieste / koper - lubljana - budapest - zahony


### furthermore , since 2007 the union has strengthened and deepened its cooperation and partnership with developing and transition countries in asia , central asia , and latin america and with iraq , iran , yemen and south africa on the basis of regulation no 1905 / 2006 of the european parliament and of the council of 18 december 2006 establishing a financing instrument for development cooperation . ### furthermore , since 2007 the union has strengthened and deepened its cooperation and partnership with developing and transition countries in latin america , asia , central asia , the middle east and south africa , on the basis of regulation no 1905 / 2006 of the european parliament and of the council of 18 december 2006 establishing a financing instrument for development cooperation .


### it is in the union ' s interest to deepen its relations with partners who are playing an increasingly important role in the international economy and trade , in south - south trade and cooperation , in multilateral fora including group of twenty finance ministers and central bank governors , in global governance and in addressing challenges of global concern . the union needs to build comprehensive partnerships with new players on the international scene , in order to promote a stable and inclusive international order , pursue common global public goods , defend core interests of the union and increase knowledge of the union in these countries . ### it is in the union ' s interest to deepen its relations with partners who are playing an increasingly important role in the international economy and trade , in south - south trade and cooperation , in the management of resources and energy markets , in multilateral fora including group of twenty finance ministers and central bank governors , in global governance and in addressing challenges of global concern . the union needs to build comprehensive partnerships with new players on the international scene , in order to promote a stable and inclusive international order , pursue common global public goods , defend core interests of the union and increase knowledge of the union in these countries .


### the eu needs a financial instrument of global scope allowing the financing of measures that might not qualify as oda but which are crucially important for deepening and consolidating its relations with the partner countries concerned , in particular through policy dialogues and development of partnerships . ### the eu needs a financial instrument of global scope allowing the financing of measures that might not qualify as oda but which are crucially important for deepening and consolidating its relations with the partner countries concerned , in particular through policy dialogues and partnerships , as well as development of key projects of mutual interest .


### in particular , fighting climate change is recognised as one of the great challenges which the union faces and the area where urgent international action is necessary . in accordance with the intent stated in the commission communication ‘ a budget for europe 2020’ of increasing the climate related proportion of the union budget to at least 20% , this regulation should contribute to that goal . ### fighting climate change is recognised as one of the challenges which the union faces and the area where urgent international action is necessary . therefore , the union should act with a view to securing a global deal on tackling climate change .


### the union should be able to respond in a flexible and timely manner to evolving and / or unforeseen needs in order to make its commitment to promote its interests in its relations with third countries more effective , by adopting special measures not covered by multi - annual indicative programmes . ### the union should be able to respond in a tailor - made and timely manner to evolving needs and / or unforeseen events in order to make its commitment to promote its interests in its relations with third countries more effective , by adopting special measures not covered by multi - annual indicative programmes .


### improving market access and developing trade , investment and business opportunities for european companies by means of economic partnerships and business and regulatory cooperation . this objective shall be measured by the union ' s share in foreign trade with key partner countries and by trade and investments flows to partner countries specifically targeted by actions , programmes and measures under this regulation ; ### improving market access and developing trade , investment and business opportunities for european companies by means of economic partnerships and business and regulatory cooperation . this objective shall be measured by the union ' s share in foreign trade with key partner countries and by trade and investments flows to partner countries specifically targeted by actions , programmes and measures under this regulation . special attention shall be paid to supporting small and medium - sized enterprises within the union and their internationalisation bearing in mind their role in the union ' s economy ;


### the promotion of initiatives and actions of union or mutual interest in areas such as climate change , environmental matters including biodiversity , resource efficiency , raw materials , energy , transport , science , research and innovation , employment and social policy , sustainable development , including promotion of decent work , and corporate social responsibility , south - south trade and cooperation , education , culture , tourism , information and communication technologies , health , justice , customs , taxation , financial , statistics and any other matter pertaining to the union ' s specific interests or of mutual interest between the union and third countries ; ### the promotion of initiatives , actions and projects of union or mutual interest in areas such as climate change , environmental matters including biodiversity , resource efficiency , raw materials , energy , transport , science , research and innovation , employment and social policy , sustainable development , including promotion of decent work , and corporate social responsibility , south - south trade and cooperation , education , culture , tourism , information and communication technologies , health , justice , customs , taxation , financial , statistics and any other matter pertaining to the union ' s specific interests or of mutual interest between the union and third countries ;


### implementation of innovative projects in the context of the eip for agricultural productivity and sustainability should be undertaken by operational groups bringing together farmers , researchers , advisors , businesses and other actors concerned by innovation in the agricultural sector . in order to ensure that results of such projects profit to the sector as a whole , their results should be disseminated . ### implementation of innovative projects in the context of the eip for agricultural productivity and sustainability should be undertaken by operational groups bringing together farmers , researchers , advisors , businesses and other actors concerned by innovation in the agricultural sector . in order to ensure that results of such projects profit to the sector as a whole , their results should be disseminated . cooperation with innovation networks in developing countries , which pursue similar objectives , should be encouraged , in particular those which support decentralized participatory research and the dissemination of knowledge about the best sustainable agricultural practises , including schemes designed specifically for women .


### implementation of innovative projects in the context of the eip for agricultural productivity and sustainability should be undertaken by operational groups bringing together farmers , researchers , advisors , businesses and other actors concerned by innovation in the agricultural sector . in order to ensure that results of such projects profit to the sector as a whole , their results should be disseminated . ### implementation of innovative projects in the context of the eip for agricultural productivity and sustainability should be undertaken by operational groups bringing together farmers , researchers , advisors , businesses and other actors concerned by innovation in the agricultural sector . cooperation with innovation networks in developing countries , which pursue similar objectives , should be encouraged . in order to ensure that results of such projects profit to the sector as a whole , their results should be disseminated .


### the coordination of national provisions concerning the presentation and content of annual financial statements and management reports , the measurement bases , used therein and their publication in respect of certain undertakings with limited liability is of special importance for the protection of shareholders , members and third parties . simultaneous coordination is necessary in those fields for such forms of undertaking because , on the one hand , some undertakings operate in more than one member state and , on the other hand , they offer no safeguards to third parties beyond the amounts of their net assets . ### the coordination of national provisions concerning the presentation and content of annual financial statements and management reports , the measurement bases , used therein and their publication in respect of certain undertakings with limited liability is of special importance for the protection of shareholders , members and third parties . simultaneous coordination is necessary in those fields for such forms of undertaking because , on the one hand , some undertakings operate in more than one member state and , on the other hand , they could affect third parties beyond the amounts of their net assets .


### member states shall require large undertakings and all public interest entities active in the extractive industry or the logging of primary forests to prepare and make public a report on payments made to governments on an annual basis . ### member states shall require large undertakings and all public interest entities active in the extractive industry or the logging of primary forests to prepare and make public a report on payments , including payments in kind , made to governments in respect of the extractive industry and forestry activities defined in article 36 , on an annual basis .


### the total amount of payments , including payments in kind , made to each government within a financial year ; ### the amount per type and the total amount of payments made to each recipient federal , national , state , regional or local government , as defined in article 36 , within a financial year ;


### where those payments have been attributed to a specific project the amount per type of payment , including payments in kind , made for each such project within a financial year , and the total amount of payments for each such project . ### where those payments have been attributed to a specific project the amount per type and the total amount of payment made for each such project within a financial year .


### other direct benefits to the government concerned . ### other payments to governments which are part of the commonly recognised revenue stream for the commercial development of oil , natural gas , minerals or primary forests .


### a member state shall require any large undertaking or any public interest entity active in the extractive industry or the logging of primary forests and governed by its national law to draw up a consolidated report on payments to governments in accordance with articles 37 and 38 if that parent undertaking is under the obligation to prepare consolidated financial statements as laid down in article 23 to 23 of this directive . ### a member state shall require any large undertaking or any public interest entity active in the extractive industry or the logging of primary forests and governed by its national law to draw up a consolidated report on payments to governments by such undertaking or public - interest entity and / or by subsidiaries or entities controlled by such undertaking or public - interest entity in accordance with articles 37 and 38 if that parent undertaking is under the obligation to prepare consolidated financial statements as laid down in article 23 to 23 of this directive .


### the commission shall review and report on the implementation and effectiveness of this chapter , in particular as regards the scope of the reporting obligations and the modalities of the reporting on a project basis . the review should also take into account international developments and consider the effects on competitiveness and security of energy supply . it should be completed at the latest five years after the date of entry into force of this directive . the report shall be submitted to the european parliament and the council , together with a legislative proposal , if appropriate . ### the commission shall review and report on the implementation and effectiveness of this chapter , in particular as regards the scope of the reporting obligations , the modalities of the reporting on a project basis and the impact of national criminal legislation prohibiting disclosure of payments . the review should also take into account international developments and further legislative developments , especially in the united states of america , with the aim of building a holistic approach ensuring the correct effects on competitiveness and security of energy supply . it should be completed at the latest four years after the date of entry into force of this directive . the report shall be submitted to the european parliament and the council , together with a legislative proposal , if appropriate .


### where a leakage of those gases is detected , the operators shall ensure that the equipment is repaired without undue delay . ### where a leakage of those gases is detected , the operators shall ensure that the equipment is repaired without undue delay and before any further use of the equipment .


### the use of fluorinated greenhouse gases , or of mixtures that contain fluorinated greenhouse gases , with a global warming potential of 2500 or more , to service or maintain refrigeration equipment with a charge size equivalent to 5 tonnes of co2 or more , shall be prohibited from 1 january 2020 . ### the use of fluorinated greenhouse gases , or of mixtures that contain fluorinated greenhouse gases , with a global warming potential of 2500 or more , to service or maintain stationary refrigeration equipment designed for an operating temperature of - 50 celsius or above and with a charge size equivalent to 50 tonnes of co2 or more , shall be prohibited from 1 january 2020 .


### from [ dd / mm / yyyy ] [ insert date 3 years after entry into force of this regulation ] , refrigeration , air - conditioning and heat pump equipment shall not be charged with hydrofluorocarbons before it is placed on the market or before it is made available to the end - user for its first installation . ### to avoid distortion of competition on the eu market , from [ dd / mm / yy ] [ insert date 1 year after entry into force of this regulation ] , products and equipment placed on the union market shall not be charged with hydrofluorocarbons unless the hydrofluorocarbons were placed on the union market before [ dd / mm / yy ] [ insert starting date of quota system ] or are accounted for within the hydrofluorocarbons quota referred to in article 14 .


### the commission shall ensure that the quantity of hydrofluorocarbons that producers and importers are entitled to place on the market in the union each year does not exceed the maximum quantity for the year in question calculated in accordance with annex v . each producer and importer shall ensure that the quantity of hydrofluorocarbons calculated in accordance with annex v that it places on the market does not exceed the quota allocated to it pursuant to article 14 or transferred to it pursuant to article 16 . ### the commission shall ensure that where safe and technologically - and economically - viable alternatives are available on the market , the quantity of hydrofluorocarbons that producers and importers are entitled to place on the market in the union each year does not exceed the maximum quantity for the year in question calculated in accordance with annex v . each producer and importer shall ensure that the quantity of hydrofluorocarbons calculated in accordance with annex v that it places on the market does not exceed the quota allocated to it pursuant to article 14 or transferred to it pursuant to article 16 .


### this article shall not apply to hydrofluorocarbons imported into the union to be destroyed . ### this article shall not apply to hydrofluorocarbons imported into the union to be destroyed . b ) hydrofluorocarbons placed on the eu market for the following sectors of use : - applications in the healthcare sector ; - aerospace applications ; - electric power generation , transmission and distribution applications ; - cryogenic applications ; - production of industrial gases .


### amending the maximum quantities set out in annex v in the light of developments of the market in hydrofluorocarbons and related emissions ; and ### amending the maximum quantities set out in annex v in the light of developments of the market in hydrofluorocarbons and related emissions , as soon as a safe and technologically - and economically - viable alternative becomes available on the market ; and


### in order to apply certain provisions of regulation no 812 / 2004 , the power to adopt acts in accordance with article 290 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union should be delegated to the commission in respect of technical specifications and conditions of use of acoustic deterrent devices . ### in order to apply certain provisions of regulation no 812 / 2004 , the power to adopt acts in accordance with article 290 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union should be delegated to the commission in respect of technical specifications and conditions of use of acoustic deterrent devices , which should guarantee effective compliance with the intended purpose , without making any significant changes to the selectivity of fishing gear in relation to the respective target species .


### proposal for a regulation of the european parliament and of the council laying down common provisions on the european regional development fund , the european social fund , the cohesion fund , the european agricultural fund for rural development and the european maritime and fisheries fund covered by the common strategic framework and laying down general provisions on the european regional development fund , the european social fund and the cohesion fund and repealing council regulation no 1083 / 2006 ### proposal for a regulation of the european parliament and of the council laying down common provisions on the european regional development fund , the european social fund , the cohesion fund , the european agricultural fund for rural development and the european maritime and fisheries fund and laying down general provisions on the european regional development fund , the european social fund and the cohesion fund and repealing regulation no 1083 / 2006


### in line with the conclusions of the european council of 17 june 2010 , whereby the union strategy for smart , sustainable and inclusive growth was adopted , the union and member states should implement the delivery of smart , sustainable and inclusive growth , while promoting harmonious development of the union and reducing regional disparities . ### in line with the conclusions of the european council of 17 june 2010 , whereby the union strategy for smart , sustainable and inclusive growth was adopted , the union and member states should implement the delivery of smart , sustainable and inclusive growth , while promoting harmonious development of the union and reducing regional disparities . cohesion policy plays a predominant role for the accomplishment of the eu 2020 objectives and a sound autonomous cohesion policy is a prerequisite for a successful implementation of this strategy .


### the outermost regions should benefit from specific measures and additional funding to offset the handicaps resulting from the factors referred to in article 349 of the treaty . ### the outermost regions should benefit from specific measures and additional funding to offset the handicaps resulting from the factors referred to in article 349 of the treaty , specifically their remoteness , insularity , small size , difficult topography and climate , and economic dependence on a few products , the permanence and combination of which severely restrain their economic and social development .


### for the partnership contract and each programme respectively , a member state should organise a partnership with the representatives of competent regional , local , urban and other public authorities , economic and social partners , and bodies representing civil society , including environmental partners , non - governmental organisations , and bodies responsible for promoting equality and non - discrimination . the purpose of such a partnership is to respect the principle of multi - level governance , ensure the ownership of planned interventions by stakeholders and build on the experience and know - how of relevant actors . the commission should be empowered to adopt delegated acts providing for a code of conduct in order to ensure that partners are involved in the preparation , implementation , monitoring and evaluation of partnership contracts and programmes in a consistent manner . ### for the partnership contract and each programme respectively , a member state should , in accordance with their institutional , legal and financial framework , organise a partnership with the representatives of competent regional , local , urban and other public authorities , economic and social partners , and bodies representing civil society , including environmental partners , churches , non - governmental organisations , and bodies responsible for promoting equality and non - discrimination . the purpose of such a partnership is to respect the principle of multi - level governance , ensure the ownership of planned interventions by stakeholders and build on the experience and know - how of relevant actors . the commission should be empowered to adopt delegated acts providing for a code of conduct in order to ensure that partners are involved in the preparation , implementation , monitoring and evaluation of partnership contracts and programmes in a consistent manner .


### for the partnership contract and each programme respectively , a member state should organise a partnership with the representatives of competent regional , local , urban and other public authorities , economic and social partners , and bodies representing civil society , including environmental partners , non - governmental organisations , and bodies responsible for promoting equality and non - discrimination . the purpose of such a partnership is to respect the principle of multi - level governance , ensure the ownership of planned interventions by stakeholders and build on the experience and know - how of relevant actors . the commission should be empowered to adopt delegated acts providing for a code of conduct in order to ensure that partners are involved in the preparation , implementation , monitoring and evaluation of partnership contracts and programmes in a consistent manner . ### for the partnership agreement and each programme respectively , a member state should organise a partnership with the representatives of competent regional , local , urban and other public authorities , economic and social partners and other bodies representing civil society , including environmental partners , non - governmental organisations and bodies responsible for promoting equality and non - discrimination , including , where appropriate , the ' umbrella organisations ' of such bodies , authorities and organisations . the purpose of such a partnership is to respect the principles of multi - level governance , but also of subsidiarity and proportionality and the specificities of the member states ' different legal and institutional frameworks as well as to ensure the ownership of planned interventions by stakeholders and build on the experience and the know - how of relevant actors . the member states should identify the most representative relevant partners , who should include the institutions , organisations and groups which can influence the preparation or be affected by the preparation and implementation of the programmes . in this context member states may also identify , where appropriate , as relevant partners , ' umbrella organisations ' which are the associations , federations or confederations of relevant local , regional and urban authorities or other bodies in accordance with applicable national law and practice . the commission shall be empowered to adopt a delegated act providing for a code of conduct in order to facilitate member states the implementation of partnership with regard to ensure the involvement of relevant partners in the preparation , implementation , monitoring and evaluation of partnership agreements and programmes in a consistent manner . the adopted delegated act should have under no circumstances and in no way of its interpretation retroactive effect or be the basis to establish irregularities leading to financial corrections . the adopted delegated act should not enter into force earlier than the day of its adoption after the entry into force of this regulation . the adopted delegated act should allow member states to determine on the most appropriate modalities for implementing the partnership in accordance with their institutional and legal framework as well as their national and regional competences , provided that its objectives , as laid down in this regulation , are achieved .


### in the context of its effort to increase economic , territorial and social cohesion , the union should , at all stages of implementation of the csf funds , aim at eliminating inequalities and promoting equality between men and women , as well as combating discrimination based on sex , racial or ethnic origin , religion or belief , disability , age or sexual orientation . ### in the context of its effort to increase economic , territorial and social cohesion , the union should , at all stages of implementation of the european structural and investment funds , aim to eliminate inequalities and ensure equality between women and men both through systematic integration of gender aspects in the programming and the implementation process , and through specific measures in accordance with the eu strategy for equality between women and men . during that implementation , the union should also aim to combat discrimination based on sex , racial or ethnic origin , religion or belief , disability , age or sexual orientation as set out in article 2 of the treaty on the european union , article 10 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union and article 21 of the charter of fundamental rights .


### the objectives of the csf funds should be pursued in the framework of sustainable development and the union ' s promotion of the aim of protecting and improving the environment as set out in article 11 and 19 of the treaty , taking into account the polluter pays principle . the member states should provide information on the support for climate change objectives in line with the ambition to devote at least 20% of the union budget to this end , using a methodology adopted by the commission by implementing act . ### the objectives of the european structural and investment funds should be pursued in the framework of sustainable development and the union ' s promotion of the aim of preserving , protecting and improving the quality of the environment as set out in articles 11 and 191 of the treaty , taking into account the polluter pays principle . to this end the member states should provide information on the support for climate change objectives in line with the ambition to devote at least 20% of the union budget using a methodology based on the categories of intervention or measures adopted by the commission by implementing act .


### in order to achieve the targets and objectives of the union strategy for smart , sustainable and inclusive growth , the csf funds should focus their support on a limited number of common thematic objectives . the precise scope of each of the csf funds should be set out in funds - specific rules and may be limited to only some of the thematic objectives defined in this regulation . ### in order to achieve the targets and objectives of the union strategy for smart , sustainable and inclusive growth , the european structural and investment funds should focus their support on a limited number of common thematic objectives , which leave sufficient scope for flexibility in order to accommodate the specific needs of regions and give adequate responses to them . the precise scope of each of the european structural and investment funds should be set out in funds - specific rules and may be limited to only some of the thematic objectives defined in this regulation .