# Official Journal C 32/2008

| | ISSN 1725-2423 |
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| Official Journal
  of the European Union | C 32 |
| | |
| English edition | Information and Notices | Volume 516 February 2008 |

ISSN 1725-2423

Official Journal

of the European Union

C 32

English edition

Information and Notices

Volume 516 February 2008

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| Notice No | Contents | page |
| --- | --- | --- |
| | II   Information |
| | JOINT DECLARATIONS |
| | Commission |
| 2008/C 032/01 | Joint Declaration on Relations and Cooperation between the European Union and New Zealand | 1 |
| | INFORMATION FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS AND BODIES |
| | Commission |
| 2008/C 032/02 | Non-opposition to a notified concentration (Case COMP/M.4804 — Serafina/Intelsat) (
  1
  ) | 7 |

Notice No

Contents

page

II   Information

JOINT DECLARATIONS

Commission

2008/C 032/01

Joint Declaration on Relations and Cooperation between the European Union and New Zealand

1

INFORMATION FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS AND BODIES

Commission

2008/C 032/02

Non-opposition to a notified concentration (Case COMP/M.4804 — Serafina/Intelsat) (
  1
  )

1

7

| | IV   Notices |
| --- | --- |
| | NOTICES FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS AND BODIES |
| | Commission |
| 2008/C 032/03 | Euro exchange rates | 8 |
| | NOTICES FROM MEMBER STATES |
| 2008/C 032/04 | Information communicated by Member States regarding State aid granted under Commission Regulation (EC) No 1857/2006 on the application of Articles 87 and 88 of the EC Treaty to State aid to small and medium-sized enterprises active in the production of agricultural products and amending Regulation (EC) No 70/2001 | 9 |

IV   Notices

NOTICES FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS AND BODIES

Commission

2008/C 032/03

Euro exchange rates

8

NOTICES FROM MEMBER STATES

2008/C 032/04

Information communicated by Member States regarding State aid granted under Commission Regulation (EC) No 1857/2006 on the application of Articles 87 and 88 of the EC Treaty to State aid to small and medium-sized enterprises active in the production of agricultural products and amending Regulation (EC) No 70/2001

9

| | V   Announcements |
| --- | --- |
| | ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES |
| | European Personnel Selection Office (EPSO) |
| 2008/C 032/05 | Notice of open competition EPSO/AD/124/08 | 14 |
| | PROCEDURES RELATING TO THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE COMPETITION POLICY |
| | Commission |
| 2008/C 032/06 | Prior notification of a concentration (Case COMP/M.5054 — Schwenk-Gruppe/Paul Hartmann) — Candidate case for simplified procedure (
  1
  ) | 15 |

V   Announcements

ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES

European Personnel Selection Office (EPSO)

2008/C 032/05

Notice of open competition EPSO/AD/124/08

14

PROCEDURES RELATING TO THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE COMPETITION POLICY

Commission

2008/C 032/06

Prior notification of a concentration (Case COMP/M.5054 — Schwenk-Gruppe/Paul Hartmann) — Candidate case for simplified procedure (
  1
  )

1

15

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| --- | --- |
| | (1)   Text with EEA relevance |

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(1)   Text with EEA relevance

1

| EN | |
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EN

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II Information

JOINT DECLARATIONS

Commission

| 6.2.2008 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 32/1 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

6.2.2008

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 32/1

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JOINT DECLARATION ON RELATIONS AND COOPERATION BETWEEN THE EUROPEAN UNION AND NEW ZEALAND

(2008/C 32/01)

The European Union and New Zealand (‘the Participants’),

| — | guided by their close historical, political, economic and cultural connections, |
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guided by their close historical, political, economic and cultural connections,

| — | encouraged by their shared commitment to human rights, fundamental freedoms, civil liberties and democracy, |
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encouraged by their shared commitment to human rights, fundamental freedoms, civil liberties and democracy,

| — | recognising the strong links that already exist, |
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recognising the strong links that already exist,

| — | committed to addressing international conflicts in view of preserving or restoring peace and security, |
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committed to addressing international conflicts in view of preserving or restoring peace and security,

| — | wishing to enhance consultations on bilateral and international issues of mutual interest, and to increase practical cooperation in areas of mutual interest, |
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wishing to enhance consultations on bilateral and international issues of mutual interest, and to increase practical cooperation in areas of mutual interest,

| — | having regard to their common commitment to free and open market principles and the strengthening of the multilateral trading system in accordance with the aims and principles of the WTO, and the development of a healthy and prosperous world economy, |
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having regard to their common commitment to free and open market principles and the strengthening of the multilateral trading system in accordance with the aims and principles of the WTO, and the development of a healthy and prosperous world economy,

| — | taking account of the ‘Joint Declaration on Relations between New Zealand and the European Union’ of 1999 and the ‘New Zealand and the European Union: priorities for future cooperation’ document of 2004, |
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taking account of the ‘Joint Declaration on Relations between New Zealand and the European Union’ of 1999 and the ‘New Zealand and the European Union: priorities for future cooperation’ document of 2004,

| — | having regard to the Participants' support for the protection and promotion of diversity of cultural expressions, |
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having regard to the Participants' support for the protection and promotion of diversity of cultural expressions,

| — | recalling existing Agreements between the Participants, |
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recalling existing Agreements between the Participants,

have decided to consolidate as well as to broaden and deepen the overall framework of their relationship with a view to extending the already established cooperation further into the future.

COMMON GOALS

The Participants reaffirm their intention to further strengthen their partnership, in particular by working together to:

| — | support democracy, the rule of law and respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, within their own societies and internationally, |
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support democracy, the rule of law and respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, within their own societies and internationally,

| — | support the maintenance of international peace and security, including through peace support operations, |
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support the maintenance of international peace and security, including through peace support operations,

| — | support the role of the United Nations and promote its effectiveness, |
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support the role of the United Nations and promote its effectiveness,

| — | support international efforts in non-proliferation, disarmament and arms control, and counter-terrorism, |
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support international efforts in non-proliferation, disarmament and arms control, and counter-terrorism,

| — | cooperate on development and governance issues, in particular in relation to countries in the South Pacific, |
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cooperate on development and governance issues, in particular in relation to countries in the South Pacific,

| — | promote free market principles for trade in goods and services and for investment, reject protectionism and work to expand and further strengthen the multilateral trading system within the WTO framework, |
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promote free market principles for trade in goods and services and for investment, reject protectionism and work to expand and further strengthen the multilateral trading system within the WTO framework,

| — | promote sustainable development and the protection of the global environment including in particular the need to address the issue of climate change, |
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promote sustainable development and the protection of the global environment including in particular the need to address the issue of climate change,

| — | encourage innovation, increased productivity and competitiveness, |
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encourage innovation, increased productivity and competitiveness,

| — | foster mutual knowledge and understanding between their peoples and of their cultures. |
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foster mutual knowledge and understanding between their peoples and of their cultures.

The existing basis for cooperation

| 1. | The Participants had laid down priority areas for cooperation in the ‘Joint Declaration on Relations between New Zealand and the European Union’ of 1999. A joint statement, ‘New Zealand and the European Union: priorities for future cooperation’, also referred to as the European Union-New Zealand Action Plan, was made in 2004. |
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1.

The Participants had laid down priority areas for cooperation in the ‘Joint Declaration on Relations between New Zealand and the European Union’ of 1999. A joint statement, ‘New Zealand and the European Union: priorities for future cooperation’, also referred to as the European Union-New Zealand Action Plan, was made in 2004.

| 2. | The Action Plan included a programme of consultation and cooperation across a range of areas that has since been carried out effectively. Consultations at ministerial and senior official level have provided regular opportunities to exchange views, raise issues of concern, and explore scope for enhanced cooperation. The Agreement on mutual recognition in relation to conformity assessment between the Participants (MRA) and the Agreement between the European Community and New Zealand on sanitary measures applicable to trade in live animals and animal products were signed respectively in June 1998 and December 1996 and entered into effect respectively in 1999 and 2003. Areas of longstanding cooperation include science and technology, education, development cooperation and human rights. |
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2.

The Action Plan included a programme of consultation and cooperation across a range of areas that has since been carried out effectively. Consultations at ministerial and senior official level have provided regular opportunities to exchange views, raise issues of concern, and explore scope for enhanced cooperation. The Agreement on mutual recognition in relation to conformity assessment between the Participants (MRA) and the Agreement between the European Community and New Zealand on sanitary measures applicable to trade in live animals and animal products were signed respectively in June 1998 and December 1996 and entered into effect respectively in 1999 and 2003. Areas of longstanding cooperation include science and technology, education, development cooperation and human rights.

| 3. | This new Declaration builds on the Joint Declaration and the substantive achievements under the Action Plan. It includes further specific, practical proposals for cooperation and for strengthening the framework of the relationship. |
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3.

This new Declaration builds on the Joint Declaration and the substantive achievements under the Action Plan. It includes further specific, practical proposals for cooperation and for strengthening the framework of the relationship.

| 4. | The Participants resolve to promote and strengthen their relationship in the following areas: |
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4.

The Participants resolve to promote and strengthen their relationship in the following areas:

High level contacts

| 5. | In today's increasingly volatile and complex international environment, the value of dialogue and the exchange of information cannot be underestimated. Both Participants welcome the existing twice-yearly bilateral Ministerial Troika consultations. Moreover, regular contacts also take place between the President of the Commission, the European Union High Representative and the New Zealand Prime Minister. The participants also note the regular dialogue between the New Zealand Parliament and the European Parliament. |
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5.

In today's increasingly volatile and complex international environment, the value of dialogue and the exchange of information cannot be underestimated. Both Participants welcome the existing twice-yearly bilateral Ministerial Troika consultations. Moreover, regular contacts also take place between the President of the Commission, the European Union High Representative and the New Zealand Prime Minister. The participants also note the regular dialogue between the New Zealand Parliament and the European Parliament.

| 6. | Both Participants expect these exchanges to continue on a regular basis. Opportunities will be sought for further dialogue through bilateral visits at Ministerial and Commissioner level and in the margins of international meetings. This will be supplemented with regular information exchange through diplomatic missions and in other fora. |
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6.

Both Participants expect these exchanges to continue on a regular basis. Opportunities will be sought for further dialogue through bilateral visits at Ministerial and Commissioner level and in the margins of international meetings. This will be supplemented with regular information exchange through diplomatic missions and in other fora.

Global and regional security, counter-terrorism and human rights

| 7. | The Participants share the objective of promoting global peace and security through multi-lateral cooperation and respect for international law. We jointly support the central role of the United Nations and the work of other multinational institutions and regimes. We appreciate each other's efforts to mediate in difficult international and regional situations and give priority to resolving conflict by peaceful means. |
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7.

The Participants share the objective of promoting global peace and security through multi-lateral cooperation and respect for international law. We jointly support the central role of the United Nations and the work of other multinational institutions and regimes. We appreciate each other's efforts to mediate in difficult international and regional situations and give priority to resolving conflict by peaceful means.

| 8. | The Participants will identify opportunities for closer dialogue and cooperation between the Participants on counter-terrorism. We are both committed to the ratification and implementation of all UN counter-terrorism conventions and protocols, as well as to the implementation of all relevant UN Security Council Resolutions, including UNSCR 1373 (2001), and of the United Nations Counter-Terrorism Strategy. The Participants stand ready to assist third countries in meeting their international counter-terrorism obligations. Effective measures to counter terrorism and the protection of human rights are complementary and mutually reinforcing goals. We are committed to reducing the threat posed by terrorism and to addressing conditions that may be conducive to its spread. We support initiatives contributing to greater tolerance and understanding, including dialogue, between cultures, faiths and civilisations. |
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8.

The Participants will identify opportunities for closer dialogue and cooperation between the Participants on counter-terrorism. We are both committed to the ratification and implementation of all UN counter-terrorism conventions and protocols, as well as to the implementation of all relevant UN Security Council Resolutions, including UNSCR 1373 (2001), and of the United Nations Counter-Terrorism Strategy. The Participants stand ready to assist third countries in meeting their international counter-terrorism obligations. Effective measures to counter terrorism and the protection of human rights are complementary and mutually reinforcing goals. We are committed to reducing the threat posed by terrorism and to addressing conditions that may be conducive to its spread. We support initiatives contributing to greater tolerance and understanding, including dialogue, between cultures, faiths and civilisations.

| 9. | To be fully effective in their efforts, the Participants have taken concrete action and cooperated closely on the ground, for example through New Zealand's recently completed participation in the European Union-led stabilisation force in Bosnia-Herzegovina and through New Zealand participation in the EUPOL mission in Afghanistan. Both Participants will look to continue this practice of close, practical cooperation in similar crisis management and post-conflict stabilisation activities. |
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9.

To be fully effective in their efforts, the Participants have taken concrete action and cooperated closely on the ground, for example through New Zealand's recently completed participation in the European Union-led stabilisation force in Bosnia-Herzegovina and through New Zealand participation in the EUPOL mission in Afghanistan. Both Participants will look to continue this practice of close, practical cooperation in similar crisis management and post-conflict stabilisation activities.

| 10. | Respect for human rights and the rule of law are crucial in the promotion of peace and security. The Participants are both determined to work cooperatively for the protection and promotion of international human rights, as embodied in the Universal Declaration on Human Rights as well as in the core human rights conventions and their protocols. The Participants will continue annual consultations in troika format on international human rights issues, and will closely cooperate in international human rights fora, including the Human Rights Council. |
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10.

Respect for human rights and the rule of law are crucial in the promotion of peace and security. The Participants are both determined to work cooperatively for the protection and promotion of international human rights, as embodied in the Universal Declaration on Human Rights as well as in the core human rights conventions and their protocols. The Participants will continue annual consultations in troika format on international human rights issues, and will closely cooperate in international human rights fora, including the Human Rights Council.

| 11. | The Participants share a common interest in supporting democracy, accountable governance and rule of law as a fundamental contribution to peace and security. Where possible they will work together to achieve this common interest. |
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11.

The Participants share a common interest in supporting democracy, accountable governance and rule of law as a fundamental contribution to peace and security. Where possible they will work together to achieve this common interest.

| 12. | The stability and prosperity of the Asia-Pacific region is a priority for both Participants and is therefore a significant focus of political and security dialogues. We share the concern that some countries in the Pacific face particular challenges in these areas and we will work together to address this. |
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12.

The stability and prosperity of the Asia-Pacific region is a priority for both Participants and is therefore a significant focus of political and security dialogues. We share the concern that some countries in the Pacific face particular challenges in these areas and we will work together to address this.

| 13. | The Participants value their good cooperation as like-minded partners in the ASEAN Regional Forum and will continue their joint efforts to further strengthen the ARF as a regional forum for dialogue and cooperation in the Asia-Pacific, including through developing its preventive diplomacy role. The Participants will continue exchanges through diplomatic channels on their respective cooperation with countries in the region, including ASEAN. |
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13.

The Participants value their good cooperation as like-minded partners in the ASEAN Regional Forum and will continue their joint efforts to further strengthen the ARF as a regional forum for dialogue and cooperation in the Asia-Pacific, including through developing its preventive diplomacy role. The Participants will continue exchanges through diplomatic channels on their respective cooperation with countries in the region, including ASEAN.

| 14. | The Participants welcome the regular dialogue at ministerial and official levels on these issues and will hold informal senior officials' consultations on Common Foreign and Security Policy issues with appropriate EU interlocutors. |
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14.

The Participants welcome the regular dialogue at ministerial and official levels on these issues and will hold informal senior officials' consultations on Common Foreign and Security Policy issues with appropriate EU interlocutors.

Movement of people

| 15. | The incorporation of the Schengen Agreement into EC law has the potential to cut across the visa-free arrangements New Zealand has with all current European Union members, which permit New Zealanders to spend up to three months visa-free in each Member State. The European Union recognises the difficulties this could pose for travelling New Zealanders. The Commission confirms that the bilateral agreements that New Zealand has with Member States are in force and will remain so until new concrete actions are taken and enter into force to replace them. The Commission will consult fully with New Zealand with respect to any developments that could have implications for these bilateral agreements and work to reach a solution, based on reciprocity. |
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15.

The incorporation of the Schengen Agreement into EC law has the potential to cut across the visa-free arrangements New Zealand has with all current European Union members, which permit New Zealanders to spend up to three months visa-free in each Member State. The European Union recognises the difficulties this could pose for travelling New Zealanders. The Commission confirms that the bilateral agreements that New Zealand has with Member States are in force and will remain so until new concrete actions are taken and enter into force to replace them. The Commission will consult fully with New Zealand with respect to any developments that could have implications for these bilateral agreements and work to reach a solution, based on reciprocity.

| 16. | Also of importance in terms of mutual understanding are the reciprocal arrangements that enable young people to visit other countries for up to a year and take up work and study options while doing so — known as working holiday schemes. The visits that take place under these schemes represent a significant investment for the future. New Zealand now has such arrangements with thirteen European Union Member States and is working actively to conclude a number of others in accordance with national legislation and particularities. |
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16.

Also of importance in terms of mutual understanding are the reciprocal arrangements that enable young people to visit other countries for up to a year and take up work and study options while doing so — known as working holiday schemes. The visits that take place under these schemes represent a significant investment for the future. New Zealand now has such arrangements with thirteen European Union Member States and is working actively to conclude a number of others in accordance with national legislation and particularities.

Development cooperation

| 17. | The Participants recognize that development and security are inter-dependent and that the elimination of poverty is hence critical to decreasing global and regional insecurity. In this light both Participants' development assistance programmes contribute towards the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and by the same token to a more stable, peaceful and prosperous world. |
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17.

The Participants recognize that development and security are inter-dependent and that the elimination of poverty is hence critical to decreasing global and regional insecurity. In this light both Participants' development assistance programmes contribute towards the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and by the same token to a more stable, peaceful and prosperous world.

| 18. | The Participants underscore that democracy, human rights, good governance and the rule of law are of prime importance for achieving sustainable development and call on all donors to support improved standards of public administration in recipient countries. In designing and implementing their respective development programmes both Participants recognise the importance of cooperation between donors of development assistance. |
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18.

The Participants underscore that democracy, human rights, good governance and the rule of law are of prime importance for achieving sustainable development and call on all donors to support improved standards of public administration in recipient countries. In designing and implementing their respective development programmes both Participants recognise the importance of cooperation between donors of development assistance.

| 19. | Addressing the development challenges in the Pacific region remains the focus of the New Zealand — European Union dialogue in this field. Both Participants recognise also the need for engagement with the Pacific island States if they are to address the unique challenges they face and to achieve, by the shared efforts of donor and recipient countries, greater stability and development in the region consistent with the objectives of the region's own Pacific Plan. The Participants therefore welcomed in mid-2006 the launch of a new European Union strategy for the Pacific and the announcement of continued European Union financial support for sustainable development in the Pacific. Both Participants welcome the increased frequency of consultations on development cooperation since 2004, including through visits by senior European Union representatives to the region, and collaboration on selected projects within the Pacific region. Moreover, New Zealand welcomes the declared intention of the European Union to upgrade its political dialogue with the Pacific Island Forum countries. |
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19.

Addressing the development challenges in the Pacific region remains the focus of the New Zealand — European Union dialogue in this field. Both Participants recognise also the need for engagement with the Pacific island States if they are to address the unique challenges they face and to achieve, by the shared efforts of donor and recipient countries, greater stability and development in the region consistent with the objectives of the region's own Pacific Plan. The Participants therefore welcomed in mid-2006 the launch of a new European Union strategy for the Pacific and the announcement of continued European Union financial support for sustainable development in the Pacific. Both Participants welcome the increased frequency of consultations on development cooperation since 2004, including through visits by senior European Union representatives to the region, and collaboration on selected projects within the Pacific region. Moreover, New Zealand welcomes the declared intention of the European Union to upgrade its political dialogue with the Pacific Island Forum countries.

| 20. | The Participants accordingly resolve to maintain their regular bilateral dialogue in relation to development and trade issues and to broaden this exchange of views to encompass wider issues relevant to the stability of the region, including environmental sustainability and the threats posed to regional security by political instability, crime or terrorism. |
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20.

The Participants accordingly resolve to maintain their regular bilateral dialogue in relation to development and trade issues and to broaden this exchange of views to encompass wider issues relevant to the stability of the region, including environmental sustainability and the threats posed to regional security by political instability, crime or terrorism.

| 21. | Given their mutual desire to work together in development cooperation, both Participants envisage regular and broad ranging discussions and further exchange of information on Pacific issues. Periodic consultation in Wellington and Brussels, as well as in the field, will focus on ensuring both Participants are meeting their commitments under the Paris Declaration on Aid Effectiveness. They aim to look for opportunities to maximise donor harmonisation and promote complementarity and appropriate division of labour, work within sector wide approaches and to align with Pacific countries' priorities, systems and processes in our exchanges. Both Participants will also seek to identify further areas for both policy and practical collaboration for poverty reduction in the Pacific region. |
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21.

Given their mutual desire to work together in development cooperation, both Participants envisage regular and broad ranging discussions and further exchange of information on Pacific issues. Periodic consultation in Wellington and Brussels, as well as in the field, will focus on ensuring both Participants are meeting their commitments under the Paris Declaration on Aid Effectiveness. They aim to look for opportunities to maximise donor harmonisation and promote complementarity and appropriate division of labour, work within sector wide approaches and to align with Pacific countries' priorities, systems and processes in our exchanges. Both Participants will also seek to identify further areas for both policy and practical collaboration for poverty reduction in the Pacific region.

Trade and economic cooperation

| 22. | The trade and economic links between the Participants are fundamental to the sound relationship overall. The European Union is currently New Zealand's second largest trading partner; New Zealand ranks 50th in the European Union's external trade. Bilateral trade is expanding and the flows of goods and services are underpinned by important bilateral agreements, including the Agreement on mutual recognition in relation to conformity assessment between the European Community and New Zealand and the Agreement between the European Community and New Zealand on sanitary measures applicable to trade in live animals and animal products. |
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22.

The trade and economic links between the Participants are fundamental to the sound relationship overall. The European Union is currently New Zealand's second largest trading partner; New Zealand ranks 50th in the European Union's external trade. Bilateral trade is expanding and the flows of goods and services are underpinned by important bilateral agreements, including the Agreement on mutual recognition in relation to conformity assessment between the European Community and New Zealand and the Agreement between the European Community and New Zealand on sanitary measures applicable to trade in live animals and animal products.

| 23. | The Participants will keep under review the possibility of negotiating a broader framework for trade and economic relations in the future. As part of building our trade and economic linkages both Participants will also continue to look for areas of economic policy in which, due to their mutual interests and priorities, both would benefit from exchanging views and identifying areas of practical cooperation. This could include options to promote investment, possible improvements in the bilateral investment environment and developments in regulatory and competition policy approaches. |
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23.

The Participants will keep under review the possibility of negotiating a broader framework for trade and economic relations in the future. As part of building our trade and economic linkages both Participants will also continue to look for areas of economic policy in which, due to their mutual interests and priorities, both would benefit from exchanging views and identifying areas of practical cooperation. This could include options to promote investment, possible improvements in the bilateral investment environment and developments in regulatory and competition policy approaches.

| 24. | Both Participants will continue to deepen cooperation and to explore opportunities to facilitate trade through the conclusion of new agreements where these can enhance the value of existing arrangements. One proposed area of enhanced cooperation is the wine sector, where the parties will re-examine the merits of re-opening negotiations for a bilateral wine agreement, and the right moment for doing so. Both Participants will also investigate the benefits of a Customs Cooperation Agreement. |
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24.

Both Participants will continue to deepen cooperation and to explore opportunities to facilitate trade through the conclusion of new agreements where these can enhance the value of existing arrangements. One proposed area of enhanced cooperation is the wine sector, where the parties will re-examine the merits of re-opening negotiations for a bilateral wine agreement, and the right moment for doing so. Both Participants will also investigate the benefits of a Customs Cooperation Agreement.

| 25. | Consistent with efforts to enhance trade, the Participants will also continue negotiations on amendments to the existing Agreement on mutual recognition in relation to conformity assessment between the Participants to improve its efficiency and effectiveness. Further, the Participants will investigate the feasibility and potential benefits of extending the scope of their co-operation on technical regulations, standards and conformity assessment. In addition, both Participants should seek to explore other ways to enhance regulatory co-ordination between them in the context of global regulatory developments, with a view to reducing transaction costs for businesses and further facilitating trade. |
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25.

Consistent with efforts to enhance trade, the Participants will also continue negotiations on amendments to the existing Agreement on mutual recognition in relation to conformity assessment between the Participants to improve its efficiency and effectiveness. Further, the Participants will investigate the feasibility and potential benefits of extending the scope of their co-operation on technical regulations, standards and conformity assessment. In addition, both Participants should seek to explore other ways to enhance regulatory co-ordination between them in the context of global regulatory developments, with a view to reducing transaction costs for businesses and further facilitating trade.

| 26. | The Participants underline the importance of maintaining the integrity of their trading relationship, consistent with multilateral principles, and to resolving any bilateral concerns constructively. In this context, the annual Agricultural Trade Talks are an important vehicle for ensuring views on key bilateral and global issues relating to agricultural trade are exchanged at a senior level. However, there are many issues of common interest— services and non-agricultural goods, and strengthening of multilateral rules — that are not appropriately addressed in this forum. From 2007, these will be addressed during annual trade talks, to be held as far as possible alternately in Brussels and Wellington. |
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26.

The Participants underline the importance of maintaining the integrity of their trading relationship, consistent with multilateral principles, and to resolving any bilateral concerns constructively. In this context, the annual Agricultural Trade Talks are an important vehicle for ensuring views on key bilateral and global issues relating to agricultural trade are exchanged at a senior level. However, there are many issues of common interest— services and non-agricultural goods, and strengthening of multilateral rules — that are not appropriately addressed in this forum. From 2007, these will be addressed during annual trade talks, to be held as far as possible alternately in Brussels and Wellington.

| 27. | The Participants recognise the importance of the private sector dynamic in developing and expanding markets and, to that end, will continue to encourage the establishment and expansion of business relations. Both Participants welcome the establishment of the New Zealand/Europe Business Council (NZEBC), formed with the aim of fostering good trade relations between Europe and New Zealand. The Participants will look to facilitate regular visits to Europe by leading New Zealand business representatives and vice versa. |
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27.

The Participants recognise the importance of the private sector dynamic in developing and expanding markets and, to that end, will continue to encourage the establishment and expansion of business relations. Both Participants welcome the establishment of the New Zealand/Europe Business Council (NZEBC), formed with the aim of fostering good trade relations between Europe and New Zealand. The Participants will look to facilitate regular visits to Europe by leading New Zealand business representatives and vice versa.

| 28. | The Participants will continue to work closely together in the World Trade Organisation (WTO) to further strengthen the multilateral trading system by achieving the ambitious, balanced and global objectives agreed in the Doha Development Agenda (DDA). Their priorities and positions may differ in some areas, but both Participants will take a constructive approach. |
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28.

The Participants will continue to work closely together in the World Trade Organisation (WTO) to further strengthen the multilateral trading system by achieving the ambitious, balanced and global objectives agreed in the Doha Development Agenda (DDA). Their priorities and positions may differ in some areas, but both Participants will take a constructive approach.

Science, technology and innovation

| 29. | The development of a strong science and technology relationship with the European Union is of great value to New Zealand in view of the resources committed to scientific research in Europe and the priority which the European Union and its Member States, like New Zealand, have attached to the development of a competitive economy, with science and education being among the major drivers for growth. New Zealand's longstanding research strength in selected fields can also add value to activities within the European Union. |
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29.

The development of a strong science and technology relationship with the European Union is of great value to New Zealand in view of the resources committed to scientific research in Europe and the priority which the European Union and its Member States, like New Zealand, have attached to the development of a competitive economy, with science and education being among the major drivers for growth. New Zealand's longstanding research strength in selected fields can also add value to activities within the European Union.

| 30. | The steps taken in recent years to foster increased cooperation have included the appointment of a Science Counsellor to the New Zealand Mission in Brussels to work with the Commission and Member States in enhancing science links; the creation of a jointly funded promotion platform (FRENZ) to ensure that information about opportunities for scientific collaboration is disseminated within New Zealand; and an expanded programme of visits by officials as part of sharing information about opportunities for cooperative activities. |
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30.

The steps taken in recent years to foster increased cooperation have included the appointment of a Science Counsellor to the New Zealand Mission in Brussels to work with the Commission and Member States in enhancing science links; the creation of a jointly funded promotion platform (FRENZ) to ensure that information about opportunities for scientific collaboration is disseminated within New Zealand; and an expanded programme of visits by officials as part of sharing information about opportunities for cooperative activities.

| 31. | In recognition of the growing level of cooperation, both Participants have decided to engage towards a substantial Science & Technology Cooperation Agreement as a way to reinforce the cooperation started under the 1991 Science and Technology Cooperation Arrangement between the European Commission and New Zealand, and are starting preparatory talks to that effect. Both Participants anticipate that a significant benefit will be derived from the Joint Science and Technology Committee meetings that will then be regularly organised and will endeavour to hold such meetings every one to two years according to the need, alternating between Brussels and Wellington. |
| --- | --- |

31.

In recognition of the growing level of cooperation, both Participants have decided to engage towards a substantial Science & Technology Cooperation Agreement as a way to reinforce the cooperation started under the 1991 Science and Technology Cooperation Arrangement between the European Commission and New Zealand, and are starting preparatory talks to that effect. Both Participants anticipate that a significant benefit will be derived from the Joint Science and Technology Committee meetings that will then be regularly organised and will endeavour to hold such meetings every one to two years according to the need, alternating between Brussels and Wellington.

| 32. | Both Participants have decided to continue to work together to maximise the opportunities for participation in each other's science related activities. They recognise that cooperation under the Sixth Framework Programme for Research and Development (FP6) has increased significantly and could be further enhanced under the Seventh Framework Programme for Research and Development (FP7) that just started for a 7-year period from 2007 to 2013. |
| --- | --- |

32.

Both Participants have decided to continue to work together to maximise the opportunities for participation in each other's science related activities. They recognise that cooperation under the Sixth Framework Programme for Research and Development (FP6) has increased significantly and could be further enhanced under the Seventh Framework Programme for Research and Development (FP7) that just started for a 7-year period from 2007 to 2013.

| 33. | Both Participants will develop initiatives to enhance researcher's mobility between them, and to pursue their ongoing efforts to identify areas and topics of common interest in which to promote additional cooperation actions. They have also decided to provide support for FRENZ or its equivalent. |
| --- | --- |

33.

Both Participants will develop initiatives to enhance researcher's mobility between them, and to pursue their ongoing efforts to identify areas and topics of common interest in which to promote additional cooperation actions. They have also decided to provide support for FRENZ or its equivalent.

Education and professional exchanges

| 34. | The Participants welcome the enhanced linkages between New Zealand and European educational institutions since 2004. Both Participants will maintain education policy consultations at the senior officials' level and encourage contact between education experts in areas of mutual interest. In this respect, the presence of a New Zealand Education Counsellor in Brussels since February 2006 is highly appreciated by both Participants |
| --- | --- |

34.

The Participants welcome the enhanced linkages between New Zealand and European educational institutions since 2004. Both Participants will maintain education policy consultations at the senior officials' level and encourage contact between education experts in areas of mutual interest. In this respect, the presence of a New Zealand Education Counsellor in Brussels since February 2006 is highly appreciated by both Participants

| 35. | The Participants will encourage relevant quality assurance bodies to discuss and promote alignment between New Zealand quality assurance processes and degree structures and the Bologna process and the European Qualifications Framework. The Participants are pleased that New Zealand's request to accede to the Lisbon Convention on the recognition of qualifications was unanimously approved on 19 June 2007. |
| --- | --- |

35.

The Participants will encourage relevant quality assurance bodies to discuss and promote alignment between New Zealand quality assurance processes and degree structures and the Bologna process and the European Qualifications Framework. The Participants are pleased that New Zealand's request to accede to the Lisbon Convention on the recognition of qualifications was unanimously approved on 19 June 2007.

| 36. | Greater New Zealand participation in European Union funded programmes for student and academic scholarships, and collaboration with New Zealand institutions in developing and maintaining active partnerships will see mobility increase over time. In this context, the Participants welcome the successful start of co-operation in higher education, enabling students to complete masters' degrees jointly in New Zealand and European Union universities. Decisions on further pilot projects will be taken following a review of the first project. The Participants will look into funding further pilot projects and entering into a structured policy-oriented dialogue on issues of common interest.
  Particular attention will also be given to the exchange of teaching staff at vocational and training institutions. |
| --- | --- |

36.

Greater New Zealand participation in European Union funded programmes for student and academic scholarships, and collaboration with New Zealand institutions in developing and maintaining active partnerships will see mobility increase over time. In this context, the Participants welcome the successful start of co-operation in higher education, enabling students to complete masters' degrees jointly in New Zealand and European Union universities. Decisions on further pilot projects will be taken following a review of the first project. The Participants will look into funding further pilot projects and entering into a structured policy-oriented dialogue on issues of common interest.

Particular attention will also be given to the exchange of teaching staff at vocational and training institutions.

| 37. | Staff and student exchanges under the auspices of the European Union Centres Network (EUCN) are an important part of the academic connections between New Zealand and Europe. Both Participants recognise and support the contribution made by the Network, with the support of the Commission, to promoting interest and expertise in the European Union within New Zealand. Both Participants will explore other opportunities to promote student and academic mobility and to deepen links between European and New Zealand counterparts. |
| --- | --- |

37.

Staff and student exchanges under the auspices of the European Union Centres Network (EUCN) are an important part of the academic connections between New Zealand and Europe. Both Participants recognise and support the contribution made by the Network, with the support of the Commission, to promoting interest and expertise in the European Union within New Zealand. Both Participants will explore other opportunities to promote student and academic mobility and to deepen links between European and New Zealand counterparts.

Environment and Climate Change

| 38. | Given the range of their common interests, the Participants will endeavour to step up exchanges and investigate opportunities for enhanced cooperation on issues of mutual interest, for example sustainable and renewable energy, tackling climate change, chemical and waste management, biodiversity and nature conservation, water and marine issues. |
| --- | --- |

38.

Given the range of their common interests, the Participants will endeavour to step up exchanges and investigate opportunities for enhanced cooperation on issues of mutual interest, for example sustainable and renewable energy, tackling climate change, chemical and waste management, biodiversity and nature conservation, water and marine issues.

| 39. | Key environmental concerns such as climate change and the drive to decarbonise energy while maintaining energy security can be addressed most effectively on a global basis. Discussions and subject-specific visits have led to an enhanced appreciation of shared objectives and recognition of the value of enhanced cooperation. Both Participants share the view that careful analysis is required of the precise nature of environmental concerns and the most appropriate remedies given national circumstances, and consider the early sharing of perspectives is desirable and will be encouraged. |
| --- | --- |

39.

Key environmental concerns such as climate change and the drive to decarbonise energy while maintaining energy security can be addressed most effectively on a global basis. Discussions and subject-specific visits have led to an enhanced appreciation of shared objectives and recognition of the value of enhanced cooperation. Both Participants share the view that careful analysis is required of the precise nature of environmental concerns and the most appropriate remedies given national circumstances, and consider the early sharing of perspectives is desirable and will be encouraged.

| 40. | According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), global emissions of greenhouse gases (GHGs) have to be reduced to very low levels, well below half of levels in 2000 by the middle of the 21st century, in order to stabilise their concentrations at the lowest levels assessed by the IPCC to date in its scenarios. The lower the stabilisation level achieved, the lower the consequent damage. The Participants share similar ambitions for strong and early global action to tackle climate change and to develop and implement practical and cost-effective mechanisms to do so, which take into account differing national circumstances and capabilities. Both Participants also identify the need to broaden participation in international action so that all major GHG emitters are included. |
| --- | --- |

40.

According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), global emissions of greenhouse gases (GHGs) have to be reduced to very low levels, well below half of levels in 2000 by the middle of the 21st century, in order to stabilise their concentrations at the lowest levels assessed by the IPCC to date in its scenarios. The lower the stabilisation level achieved, the lower the consequent damage. The Participants share similar ambitions for strong and early global action to tackle climate change and to develop and implement practical and cost-effective mechanisms to do so, which take into account differing national circumstances and capabilities. Both Participants also identify the need to broaden participation in international action so that all major GHG emitters are included.

| 41. | The Participants further share the view that negotiations on a comprehensive post-2012 framework, building upon the best features of the current international arrangements we have, including the Kyoto Protocol and providing a fair and flexible framework for the widest possible participation, need to be launched at the UN international climate conference at the end of 2007 Both Participants share the view that market-based mechanisms such as emissions trading offer economically efficient means of reducing emissions, and that such mechanisms should remain an essential element of the post-2012 framework. |
| --- | --- |

41.

The Participants further share the view that negotiations on a comprehensive post-2012 framework, building upon the best features of the current international arrangements we have, including the Kyoto Protocol and providing a fair and flexible framework for the widest possible participation, need to be launched at the UN international climate conference at the end of 2007 Both Participants share the view that market-based mechanisms such as emissions trading offer economically efficient means of reducing emissions, and that such mechanisms should remain an essential element of the post-2012 framework.

| 42. | On climate change, the Participants will enhance cooperation including through sharing perspectives on the use of market based instruments, such as emissions trading, increasing energy efficiency and renewable energy use, and on addressing greenhouse gas emissions from relevant key sectors, including transport, agriculture and forestry. |
| --- | --- |

42.

On climate change, the Participants will enhance cooperation including through sharing perspectives on the use of market based instruments, such as emissions trading, increasing energy efficiency and renewable energy use, and on addressing greenhouse gas emissions from relevant key sectors, including transport, agriculture and forestry.

Fisheries

| 43. | The sustainable management of fisheries on a global basis is an issue of concern to both Participants. Both Participants welcome the regular dialogue on fisheries-related issues held since 2004. Further dialogue meetings will be held on a flexible basis, with the aim of consulting closely at intervals convenient to both Participants, on bilateral, multilateral and regional fisheries issues. |
| --- | --- |

43.

The sustainable management of fisheries on a global basis is an issue of concern to both Participants. Both Participants welcome the regular dialogue on fisheries-related issues held since 2004. Further dialogue meetings will be held on a flexible basis, with the aim of consulting closely at intervals convenient to both Participants, on bilateral, multilateral and regional fisheries issues.

Transport

| 44. | Air services provide a vital link in the strengthening relationship between the Participants. They welcomed the signature of the horizontal agreement in June 2006, which primarily addressed nationality restrictions in the bilateral air services agreements between New Zealand and Member States. Both Participants will make every effort to commence negotiations on a comprehensive air services agreement with the aim of concluding negotiations in 2008 reflecting the similar views on both sides of the principles involved. |
| --- | --- |

44.

Air services provide a vital link in the strengthening relationship between the Participants. They welcomed the signature of the horizontal agreement in June 2006, which primarily addressed nationality restrictions in the bilateral air services agreements between New Zealand and Member States. Both Participants will make every effort to commence negotiations on a comprehensive air services agreement with the aim of concluding negotiations in 2008 reflecting the similar views on both sides of the principles involved.

People-to-people links and outreach activities

| 45. | The media has an increasingly influential role in providing information, and influencing community perceptions, about other countries. The Participants acknowledge the annual European Union Journalist Award, designed to engender understanding of the European Union in New Zealand through providing a New Zealand working journalist the opportunity to travel to Europe for two weeks and study a topic of the journalist's choosing that is relevant to a New Zealand audience. To promote greater understanding among respective media, the Participants will work with media organisations to foster an understanding of the bilateral relationship including by promoting exchanges between media organisations, in particular for journalists. |
| --- | --- |

45.

The media has an increasingly influential role in providing information, and influencing community perceptions, about other countries. The Participants acknowledge the annual European Union Journalist Award, designed to engender understanding of the European Union in New Zealand through providing a New Zealand working journalist the opportunity to travel to Europe for two weeks and study a topic of the journalist's choosing that is relevant to a New Zealand audience. To promote greater understanding among respective media, the Participants will work with media organisations to foster an understanding of the bilateral relationship including by promoting exchanges between media organisations, in particular for journalists.

| 46. | The Commission will encourage journalism schools and the training departments of various New Zealand mainstream media organisations to include training modules on reporting on contemporary Europe. |
| --- | --- |

46.

The Commission will encourage journalism schools and the training departments of various New Zealand mainstream media organisations to include training modules on reporting on contemporary Europe.

| 47. | Recognising that a better understanding of the functioning of the European Union will enhance the bilateral relationship, the Commission will co-operate with New Zealand to support the placement of New Zealand officials on short term internships across the Commission on an occasional basis, funded by New Zealand, subject to the identification of suitable positions. New Zealand confirms that it would accept Commission officials on a similar basis. |
| --- | --- |

47.

Recognising that a better understanding of the functioning of the European Union will enhance the bilateral relationship, the Commission will co-operate with New Zealand to support the placement of New Zealand officials on short term internships across the Commission on an occasional basis, funded by New Zealand, subject to the identification of suitable positions. New Zealand confirms that it would accept Commission officials on a similar basis.

| 48. | The Participants acknowledge the importance of the EUCN to European Union-New Zealand relations, the Commission's funding of the network and they reconfirm their commitment to continued support to this activity. |
| --- | --- |

48.

The Participants acknowledge the importance of the EUCN to European Union-New Zealand relations, the Commission's funding of the network and they reconfirm their commitment to continued support to this activity.

| 49. | The Participants also encourage the EUCN to continue to be instrumental in the annual placement of graduate students on short-term internships in the European Parliament. These internships are very useful for both Participants; beneficial to the interns by providing them with an experience of the European Parliament; and create partnerships between the students and the Members of the Australia/New Zealand European Parliament Delegation. |
| --- | --- |

49.

The Participants also encourage the EUCN to continue to be instrumental in the annual placement of graduate students on short-term internships in the European Parliament. These internships are very useful for both Participants; beneficial to the interns by providing them with an experience of the European Parliament; and create partnerships between the students and the Members of the Australia/New Zealand European Parliament Delegation.

| 50. | Regular exchanges between the European Parliament and the New Zealand Parliament are an important dimension of the overall relationship between New Zealand and European institutions and contribute to a broader understanding of the relationship on both Participants. The New Zealand Mission to the European Union in Brussels and the European Commission Delegation in Wellington will maintain close relations with the respective Parliaments to provide information on developments in the relationship and identify opportunities to increase contact and mutual understanding. |
| --- | --- |

50.

Regular exchanges between the European Parliament and the New Zealand Parliament are an important dimension of the overall relationship between New Zealand and European institutions and contribute to a broader understanding of the relationship on both Participants. The New Zealand Mission to the European Union in Brussels and the European Commission Delegation in Wellington will maintain close relations with the respective Parliaments to provide information on developments in the relationship and identify opportunities to increase contact and mutual understanding.

Review

| 51. | The Participants will regularly monitor progress in implementing the actions identified in this Joint Declaration. In 2012 both Participants will again conduct a comprehensive review of practical steps to maintain close consultation and develop greater cooperation between the Participants. |
| --- | --- |

51.

The Participants will regularly monitor progress in implementing the actions identified in this Joint Declaration. In 2012 both Participants will again conduct a comprehensive review of practical steps to maintain close consultation and develop greater cooperation between the Participants.

---

INFORMATION FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS AND BODIES

Commission

| 6.2.2008 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 32/7 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

6.2.2008

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 32/7

---

Non-opposition to a notified concentration

(Case COMP/M.4804 — Serafina/Intelsat)

(Text with EEA relevance)

(2008/C 32/02)

On 19 October 2007, the Commission decided not to oppose the above notified concentration and to declare it compatible with the common market. This decision is based on Article 6(1)(b) of Council Regulation (EC) No 139/2004. The full text of the decision is available only in English and will be made public after it is cleared of any business secrets it may contain. It will be available:

| — | from the Europa competition website (http://ec.europa.eu/comm/competition/mergers/cases/). This website provides various facilities to help locate individual merger decisions, including company, case number, date and sectoral indexes, |
| --- | --- |

—

from the Europa competition website (http://ec.europa.eu/comm/competition/mergers/cases/). This website provides various facilities to help locate individual merger decisions, including company, case number, date and sectoral indexes,

| — | in electronic form on the EUR-Lex website under document number 32007M4804. EUR-Lex is the on-line access to European law (http://eur-lex.europa.eu). |
| --- | --- |

—

in electronic form on the EUR-Lex website under document number 32007M4804. EUR-Lex is the on-line access to European law (http://eur-lex.europa.eu).

---

IV Notices

NOTICES FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS AND BODIES

Commission

| 6.2.2008 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 32/8 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

6.2.2008

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 32/8

---

Euro exchange rates (1)

5 February 2008

(2008/C 32/03)

1 euro=

| | Currency | Exchange rate |
| --- | --- | --- |
| USD | US dollar | 1,4688 |
| JPY | Japanese yen | 157,79 |
| DKK | Danish krone | 7,4538 |
| GBP | Pound sterling | 0,74605 |
| SEK | Swedish krona | 9,4074 |
| CHF | Swiss franc | 1,6177 |
| ISK | Iceland króna | 95,8 |
| NOK | Norwegian krone | 8,0095 |
| BGN | Bulgarian lev | 1,9558 |
| CZK | Czech koruna | 25,671 |
| EEK | Estonian kroon | 15,6466 |
| HUF | Hungarian forint | 258,21 |
| LTL | Lithuanian litas | 3,4528 |
| LVL | Latvian lats | 0,697 |
| PLN | Polish zloty | 3,58 |
| RON | Romanian leu | 3,6335 |
| SKK | Slovak koruna | 33,379 |
| TRY | Turkish lira | 1,7205 |
| AUD | Australian dollar | 1,6263 |
| CAD | Canadian dollar | 1,467 |
| HKD | Hong Kong dollar | 11,4555 |
| NZD | New Zealand dollar | 1,8638 |
| SGD | Singapore dollar | 2,0803 |
| KRW | South Korean won | 1 383,24 |
| ZAR | South African rand | 10,9558 |
| CNY | Chinese yuan renminbi | 10,5511 |
| HRK | Croatian kuna | 7,2545 |
| IDR | Indonesian rupiah | 13 527,65 |
| MYR | Malaysian ringgit | 4,7402 |
| PHP | Philippine peso | 59,34 |
| RUB | Russian rouble | 36,121 |
| THB | Thai baht | 45,552 |
| BRL | Brazilian real | 2,5645 |
| MXN | Mexican peso | 15,8669 |

Currency

Exchange rate

USD

US dollar

1,4688

JPY

Japanese yen

157,79

DKK

Danish krone

7,4538

GBP

Pound sterling

0,74605

SEK

Swedish krona

9,4074

CHF

Swiss franc

1,6177

ISK

Iceland króna

95,8

NOK

Norwegian krone

8,0095

BGN

Bulgarian lev

1,9558

CZK

Czech koruna

25,671

EEK

Estonian kroon

15,6466

HUF

Hungarian forint

258,21

LTL

Lithuanian litas

3,4528

LVL

Latvian lats

0,697

PLN

Polish zloty

3,58

RON

Romanian leu

3,6335

SKK

Slovak koruna

33,379

TRY

Turkish lira

1,7205

AUD

Australian dollar

1,6263

CAD

Canadian dollar

1,467

HKD

Hong Kong dollar

11,4555

NZD

New Zealand dollar

1,8638

SGD

Singapore dollar

2,0803

KRW

South Korean won

1 383,24

ZAR

South African rand

10,9558

CNY

Chinese yuan renminbi

10,5511

HRK

Croatian kuna

7,2545

IDR

Indonesian rupiah

13 527,65

MYR

Malaysian ringgit

4,7402

PHP

Philippine peso

59,34

RUB

Russian rouble

36,121

THB

Thai baht

45,552

BRL

Brazilian real

2,5645

MXN

Mexican peso

15,8669

---

(1)

Source: reference exchange rate published by the ECB.

---

NOTICES FROM MEMBER STATES

| 6.2.2008 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 32/9 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

6.2.2008

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 32/9

---

Information communicated by Member States regarding State aid granted under Commission Regulation (EC) No 1857/2006 on the application of Articles 87 and 88 of the EC Treaty to State aid to small and medium-sized enterprises active in the production of agricultural products and amending Regulation (EC) No 70/2001

(2008/C 32/04)

Aid No: XA 212/07

Member State: Republic of Slovenia

Region: Municipality of Logatec

Title of aid scheme or name of company receiving individual aid: Podpore programom razvoja kmetijstva in podeželja v občini Logatec 2007-2013

Legal basis: Pravilnik o dodeljevanju državnih pomoči za ohranjanje in razvoj kmetijstva in podeželja v občini Logatec (2. Poglavje)

Annual expenditure planned under the scheme or overall amount of individual aid granted to the company:

| | 2007: EUR 22 500 |
| --- | --- |

2007: EUR 22 500

| | 2008: EUR 24 750 |
| --- | --- |

2008: EUR 24 750

| | 2009: EUR 27 300 |
| --- | --- |

2009: EUR 27 300

| | 2010: EUR 30 030 |
| --- | --- |

2010: EUR 30 030

| | 2011: EUR 33 000 |
| --- | --- |

2011: EUR 33 000

| | 2012: EUR 36 300 |
| --- | --- |

2012: EUR 36 300

| | 2013: EUR 40 000 |
| --- | --- |

2013: EUR 40 000

Maximum aid intensity:

1.   Investment in agricultural holdings:

| — | up to 50 % of eligible investments in less-favoured areas and up to 40 % of eligible investments in other areas. |
| --- | --- |

—

up to 50 % of eligible investments in less-favoured areas and up to 40 % of eligible investments in other areas.

Support is granted for investment in farm features for agricultural production, investment in pastures and land and for private access ways on farms.

2.   Aid towards the payment of insurance premiums:

| — | up to 10 % of eligible costs of insurance premiums for insuring crops and fruit, |
| --- | --- |

—

up to 10 % of eligible costs of insurance premiums for insuring crops and fruit,

| — | the difference between the amount of co-financing of insurance premiums from the national budget and up to 50 % of eligible costs for insuring livestock against disease. |
| --- | --- |

—

the difference between the amount of co-financing of insurance premiums from the national budget and up to 50 % of eligible costs for insuring livestock against disease.

3.   Aid to encourage the production of quality agricultural products:

| — | up to 100 % of eligible costs; this is to be provided in the form of subsidised services and must not involve direct payments of money to producers. |
| --- | --- |

—

up to 100 % of eligible costs; this is to be provided in the form of subsidised services and must not involve direct payments of money to producers.

4.   Provision of technical support.

| — | up to 100 % of eligible costs for the organisation and implementation of education and training programmes, consultancy services provided by third parties, the organisation of forums for farms to exchange knowledge, competitions, exhibitions and fairs, and the funding of publications, such as catalogues and websites. The aid is to be granted in the form of subsidised services and must not involve direct payments of money to producers |
| --- | --- |

—

up to 100 % of eligible costs for the organisation and implementation of education and training programmes, consultancy services provided by third parties, the organisation of forums for farms to exchange knowledge, competitions, exhibitions and fairs, and the funding of publications, such as catalogues and websites. The aid is to be granted in the form of subsidised services and must not involve direct payments of money to producers

Date of implementation: August 2007

Duration of scheme or individual aid award: Until 31 December 2013

Objective of aid: To support SMEs

Reference to Articles in Regulation (EC) No 1857/2006 and eligible costs: Chapter II of the Rules on granting State aid for conservation and agricultural and rural development in the municipality of Logatec includes measures constituting State aid in accordance with the following Articles of Commission Regulation (EC) No 1857/2006 of 15 December 2006 on the application of Articles 87 and 88 of the Treaty to State aid to small and medium-sized enterprises active in the production of agricultural products and amending Regulation (EC) No 70/2001 (OJ L 358, 16.12.2006, p. 3):

Article 4: Investment in agricultural holdings,

Article 12: Aid towards the payment of insurance premiums,

Article 14: Aid to encourage the production of quality agricultural products,

Article 15: Provision of technical support in the agricultural sector

Economic Sector(s) concerned: Agriculture — Aid is granted for investment in livestock farming, except for the breeding of warm-blooded horses, poultry or rabbits. Aid is granted for breeding small ruminants in less-favoured areas

Name and address of granting authority:

| Občina Logatec |
| --- |
| Tržaška cesta 15 |
| SLO-1370 Logatec |

Občina Logatec

Tržaška cesta 15

SLO-1370 Logatec

Web address: http://dokumenti.obcina-logatec.com/PRAVILNIKI/Pravilnikkmetijstvo.pdf

Other information: The measure for the payment of insurance premiums to insure crops and fruit includes the following adverse climatic events which can be assimilated to natural disasters: spring frost, hail, lightning, fire caused by lightning, storm and floods.

The municipality's Rules meet the requirements of Regulation (EC) No 1857/2006 relating to the measures to be adopted by the municipality and the general provisions applicable (steps preceding grant of aid, cumulation, transparency and monitoring of aid)

Aid No: XA 219/07

Member State: Republic of Slovenia

Region: Municipality of Straža

Title of aid scheme or name of company receiving individual aid: Podpora programom razvoja kmetijstva in podeželja v občini Straža 2007-2013

Legal basis: Pravilnik o ohranjanju in spodbujanju razvoja kmetijstva in podeželja v mestni občini Straža za programsko obdobje 2007-2013 (II. Poglavje)

Annual expenditure planned under the scheme or overall amount of individual aid granted to the company: The annual budget planned for the period 2007-2013 is EUR 48 752

Maximum aid intensity:

1.   Investment in agricultural holdings:

| — | up to 40 % of eligible costs for investment. |
| --- | --- |

—

up to 40 % of eligible costs for investment.

The purpose of the aid is investment to restore farm features, to purchase equipment to be used for agricultural production, to invest in permanent crops and to improve farmland.

2.   Conservation of traditional landscapes and buildings:

| — | up to 100 % for non-productive features and up to 60 % for on-farm productive features, provided that the investment does not lead to an increase in production potential, |
| --- | --- |

—

up to 100 % for non-productive features and up to 60 % for on-farm productive features, provided that the investment does not lead to an increase in production potential,

| — | additional aid may be granted up to 100 % to cover the extra costs incurred by using traditional materials. |
| --- | --- |

—

additional aid may be granted up to 100 % to cover the extra costs incurred by using traditional materials.

3.   Aid towards the payment of insurance premiums:

| — | municipal support, in line with the Decree on co-financing of insurance premiums for agricultural production for the current year, adopted by the Slovenian Government, brings the amount of aid up to a maximum of 50 % of eligible costs for insurance premiums to insure crops and fruit and livestock against disease. |
| --- | --- |

—

municipal support, in line with the Decree on co-financing of insurance premiums for agricultural production for the current year, adopted by the Slovenian Government, brings the amount of aid up to a maximum of 50 % of eligible costs for insurance premiums to insure crops and fruit and livestock against disease.

4.   Aid for land reparcelling:

| — | up to 100 % of eligible costs incurred in legal and administrative procedures. |
| --- | --- |

—

up to 100 % of eligible costs incurred in legal and administrative procedures.

5.   Provision of technical support in the agricultural sector:

| — | up to 100 % of costs for education and training for farmers, consultancy services, the organisation of forums, competitions, exhibitions and fairs, publications, catalogues and websites, replacement services and the dissemination of scientific knowledge. The aid is to be granted in the form of subsidised services and must not involve direct payments of money to producers |
| --- | --- |

—

up to 100 % of costs for education and training for farmers, consultancy services, the organisation of forums, competitions, exhibitions and fairs, publications, catalogues and websites, replacement services and the dissemination of scientific knowledge. The aid is to be granted in the form of subsidised services and must not involve direct payments of money to producers

Date of implementation: August 2007 (or the date on which the Rules enter into force)

Duration of scheme or individual aid award:

Objective of aid: To support SMEs

Reference to Articles in Regulation (EC) No 1857/2006 and eligible costs: Chapter II of the draft Rules on the conservation and promotion of the development of agriculture and rural areas in the municipality of Straža for the programming period 2007-2013 includes measures constituting State aid in accordance with the following Articles of Regulation (EC) No 1857/2006 on the application of Articles 87 and 88 of the Treaty to State aid to small and medium-sized enterprises active in the production of agricultural products and amending Regulation (EC) No 70/2001 (OJ L 358, 16.12.2006, p. 3):

Article 4: Investment in agricultural holdings,

Article 5: Conservation of traditional landscapes and buildings,

Article 12: Aid towards the payment of insurance premiums,

Article 13: Aid for land reparcelling,

Article 15: Provision of technical support in the agricultural sector

Economic Sector(s) concerned: Agriculture — Plant production and livestock farming

Name and address of the granting authority:

| Občina Straža |
| --- |
| Ulica Talcev 9 |
| SLO-8351 Straža |

Občina Straža

Ulica Talcev 9

SLO-8351 Straža

Web address: http://www.uradni-list.si/1/ulonline.jsp?urlid=200771&dhid=91211

Other information: The measure for the payment of insurance premiums to insure crops and fruit includes the following adverse climatic events which can be assimilated to natural disasters: spring frost, hail, lightning, fire caused by lightning, storm and floods.

The municipality's Rules meet the requirements of Regulation (EC) No 1857/2006 concerning the measures to be adopted by the municipality and the general provisions applicable (steps preceding grant of aid, cumulation, transparency and monitoring of aid)

Municipality of Straža

Mayor

Alojz KNAFELJ

Aid No: XA 222/07

Member State: Federal Republic of Germany

Region: All regions

Title of aid scheme or name of company receiving individual aid: Richtlinie über die Förderung der Beratung landwirtschaftlicher Unternehmen vor und während einer Umstellung des Betriebes auf ökologischen Landbau

Legal basis: Richtlinie über die Förderung der Beratung landwirtschaftlicher Unternehmen vor und während einer Umstellung des Betriebes auf ökologischen Landbau; Bundeshaushaltsgesetz, Allgemeine Verwaltungsvorschriften zu §§ 23, 44 Bundeshaushaltsordnung

Annual expenditure planned under the scheme or overall amount of individual aid granted to the company: Up to EUR 1 million in total

Maximum aid intensity: Aid is awarded in the form of a grant providing part-funding for a specific project. The amount of aid granted will correspond to 50 % of the costs of consultation, subject to a maximum of EUR 2 000 (net) per consultation type (consultation prior to conversion; consultation during the conversion process). The funding can be granted once for a consultation before conversion and once for a consultation during the conversion process. The grant is not paid directly to the recipient of the aid

Date of implementation: The guidelines were signed on 13 August 2007. They enter into force the day after their promulgation in the Federal Gazette. The guidelines can only be promulgated once the summary of the aid has been published by the European Commission The funding guidelines are effective for consultations beginning on or after this date

Duration of scheme or individual aid award: The guidelines are effective until 31 December 2010

Objective of the aid: Consultation services for conventional agricultural enterprises on the opportunities offered by converting to organic farming and the consequences of such a conversion play an important role in:

judging more accurately whether and under what circumstances converting to organic farming methods is viable, thereby helping companies to avoid making bad business decisions,

improving the prospects of an impending conversion to organic farming methods by increasing management know-how,

reinforcing the will of farmers to convert to organic farming, thereby increasing the overall number of enterprises using organic production methods.

Consultation on production methods or commercial matters during the conversion of an agricultural enterprise from conventional to organic farming plays an important role in:

judging more accurately how the production of certain goods should be adapted to the changed framework conditions of the individual enterprise, thereby helping to optimise the necessary adaptation processes and minimise bad decision-making on the part of the enterprise,

increasing the probability of the conversion being a success by ensuring the continual development of management know-how in a complex subject area,

optimising the development of the business both during and after the conversion, as laid down in Regulation (EEC) No 2092/91, thereby encouraging farmers to continue using the new production methods in the long-term and potentially helping to ensure that enterprises do not convert back to conventional methods after the obligatory five-year period of organic production, laid down in Regulation (EC) No 1698/2005, has elapsed.

Aid will be granted to enterprises in accordance with these guidelines and the general administrative regulations on sections 23 and 44 of the Federal Budget Code (BHO) in order to provide them with an incentive to engage external consulting services. The granting conditions correspond to the conditions laid out in Article 15(2)(c) of Regulation (EC) No 1857/2006

Economic sectors: Conventional and organic agricultural enterprises operative in all sub-sectors

Name and address of the granting authority:

| Bundesanstalt für Landwirtschaft und Ernährung (BLE) |
| --- |
| Deichmanns Aue 29 |
| D-53179 Bonn |

Bundesanstalt für Landwirtschaft und Ernährung (BLE)

Deichmanns Aue 29

D-53179 Bonn

Web address: http://www.bundesprogramm-oekolandbau.de/foerderrichtlinien/umstellungsberatung/

Other information: —

Aid No: XA 223/07

Member State: Hungary

Region: All of Hungary

Title of aid scheme or name of company receiving individual aid: Állami program keretében egyes növényegészségügyi vizsgálatok költségeihez nyújtott nemzeti támogatás.

Legal basis:

| — | egyes növényegészségügyi vizsgálatok támogatásáról szóló .../2007. ( ) FVM rendelet; |
| --- | --- |

—

egyes növényegészségügyi vizsgálatok támogatásáról szóló .../2007. ( ) FVM rendelet;

| — | a növényvédelemről szóló 2000. évi XXV. törvény; |
| --- | --- |

—

a növényvédelemről szóló 2000. évi XXV. törvény;

| — | a növényegészségügyi feladatok végrehajtásának részletes szabályairól szóló 7/2001. (I. 17.) FVM rendelet; |
| --- | --- |

—

a növényegészségügyi feladatok végrehajtásának részletes szabályairól szóló 7/2001. (I. 17.) FVM rendelet;

| — | a gyümölcs szaporítóanyagok előállításáról és forgalomba hozataláról szóló 64/2004. (IV. 27.) FVM rendelet; |
| --- | --- |

—

a gyümölcs szaporítóanyagok előállításáról és forgalomba hozataláról szóló 64/2004. (IV. 27.) FVM rendelet;

| — | a szőlő szaporítóanyagok előállításáról, minősítéséről és forgalomba hozataláról szóló 87/2006. (XII. 28.) FVM rendelet; |
| --- | --- |

—

a szőlő szaporítóanyagok előállításáról, minősítéséről és forgalomba hozataláról szóló 87/2006. (XII. 28.) FVM rendelet;

| — | a növényvédelmi igazgatási szolgáltatási díjakról szóló 165/2004. (XI. 22.) FVM rendelet. |
| --- | --- |

—

a növényvédelmi igazgatási szolgáltatási díjakról szóló 165/2004. (XI. 22.) FVM rendelet.

Annual expenditure planned under the scheme or overall amount of individual aid granted to the company: Total annual aid: HUF 150 million

Maximum aid intensity: Aid at a rate of 80 % of the invoice value of eligible expenditure

Maximum eligible expenditure for each type of test is set out in Regulation No 165/2004 of 22 November 2004 of the Agriculture and Rural Development Ministry

Date of implementation: September 2007, after Commission position

Duration of scheme or individual aid award:

Objective of aid: The objective of the aid is to ensure the production of quality seeds and propagating materials of high biological value and to better safeguard plant health for the maintenance of plant species.

The provisions of Article 10 of Regulation (EC) No 1857/2006 are applied.

Aid may be claimed for the costs of plant health services, supported by invoices, incurred in carrying out the above-mentioned checking and testing as required by national plant health programmes

Sector(s) concerned: The sectors concerned are the production of seed and propagating materials, including in the areas of arable crops, horticulture and licensed nurseries

Name and address of the granting authority:

| Földművelésügyi és Vidékfejlesztési Minisztérium |
| --- |
| HU-Kossuth tér 11, Budapest |

Földművelésügyi és Vidékfejlesztési Minisztérium

HU-Kossuth tér 11, Budapest

Web address: http://www.fvm.hu/main.php?folderID=1846&articleID=10790&ctag=articlelist&iid=1

Budapest, 27 August 2007

András MÁHR

State Secretary with special responsibility

Aid No: XA 224/07

Member State: Republic of Slovenia

Region: Municipality of Šentjur

Title of aid scheme or name of company receiving individual aid: Podpore programom razvoja podeželja v občini Šentjur 2007-2013

Legal basis: Pravilnik o dodeljevanju državnih pomoči za ohranjanje in razvoj kmetijstva in podeželja v občini Šentjur

Annual expenditure planned under the scheme or overall amount of individual aid granted to the company:

| | 2007: EUR 38 117 |
| --- | --- |

2007: EUR 38 117

| | 2008: EUR 40 617 |
| --- | --- |

2008: EUR 40 617

| | 2009: EUR 46 700 |
| --- | --- |

2009: EUR 46 700

| | 2010: EUR 53 700 |
| --- | --- |

2010: EUR 53 700

| | 2011: EUR 61 770 |
| --- | --- |

2011: EUR 61 770

| | 2012: EUR 71 000 |
| --- | --- |

2012: EUR 71 000

| | 2013: EUR 81 600 |
| --- | --- |

2013: EUR 81 600

Maximum aid intensity:

1.   Investment in agricultural holdings for primary production

| — | up to 40 % of eligible costs for investment. |
| --- | --- |

—

up to 40 % of eligible costs for investment.

The purpose of the aid is investment to restore farm features, to purchase equipment used for agricultural production, to invest in permanent crops and to improve farmland and pastures.

2.   Conservation of traditional buildings:

| — | up to 60 % of actual costs for investment to preserve non-productive heritage features located on farms (sites of archaeological and historical interest) and to protect productive heritage features on farms, such as farm buildings, provided the investment does not lead to an increase in production potential. |
| --- | --- |

—

up to 60 % of actual costs for investment to preserve non-productive heritage features located on farms (sites of archaeological and historical interest) and to protect productive heritage features on farms, such as farm buildings, provided the investment does not lead to an increase in production potential.

3.   Aid towards the payment of insurance premiums:

| — | the amount of municipal support is the difference between the amount of co-financing of insurance premiums from the national budget and up to 50 % of eligible costs of insurance premiums for insuring crops and fruit and for insuring livestock against disease. |
| --- | --- |

—

the amount of municipal support is the difference between the amount of co-financing of insurance premiums from the national budget and up to 50 % of eligible costs of insurance premiums for insuring crops and fruit and for insuring livestock against disease.

4.   Provision of technical support in the agricultural sector:

| — | up to 100 % of costs of education and training of farmers, consultancy services, the organisation of forums, competitions, exhibitions and fairs, publications, catalogues and websites, and for disseminating scientific knowledge. The aid is to be granted in the form of subsidised services and must not involve direct payments of money to producers |
| --- | --- |

—

up to 100 % of costs of education and training of farmers, consultancy services, the organisation of forums, competitions, exhibitions and fairs, publications, catalogues and websites, and for disseminating scientific knowledge. The aid is to be granted in the form of subsidised services and must not involve direct payments of money to producers

Date of implementation: 2007 (or the date on which the Rules enter into force)

Duration of scheme or individual aid award: Until 31 December 2013

Objective of the aid: To support SMEs

Reference to Articles in Regulation (EC) No 1857/2006 and eligible costs: Chapter III of the draft Rules on granting State aid for the conservation and development of agriculture and rural areas in the municipality of Šentjur includes measures constituting State aid in accordance with the following Articles of Regulation (EC) No 1857/2006 on the application of Articles 87 and 88 of the Treaty to State aid to small and medium-sized enterprises active in the production of agricultural products and amending Regulation (EC) No 70/2001 (OJ L 358, 16.12.2006, p. 3):

Article 4: Investment in agricultural holdings,

Article 5: Conservation of traditional landscapes and buildings,

Article 12: Aid towards the payment of insurance premiums,

Article 15: Provision of technical support in the agricultural sector

Economic Sector(s) concerned: Agriculture — Plant production and livestock farming

Name and address of granting authority:

| Občina Šentjur |
| --- |
| Mestni trg 10 |
| SLO-3230 Šentjur |

Občina Šentjur

Mestni trg 10

SLO-3230 Šentjur

Web address: http://www.uradni-list.si/1/ulonline.jsp?urlid=200774&dhid=91305

Other information: The measure for the payment of insurance premiums to insure crops and fruit includes the following adverse climatic events which can be assimilated to natural disasters: spring frost, hail, lightning, fire caused by lightning, storm and floods.

The municipality's Rules meet the requirements of Regulation (EC) No 1857/2006 relating to the measures to be adopted by the municipality and the general provisions applicable (steps preceding grant of aid, cumulation, transparency and monitoring of aid)

Signature of person responsible

Mayor

Štefan TISEL

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V Announcements

ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES

European Personnel Selection Office (EPSO)

| 6.2.2008 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 32/14 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

6.2.2008

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 32/14

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NOTICE OF OPEN COMPETITION EPSO/AD/124/08

(2008/C 32/05)

The European Personnel Selection Office (EPSO) is organising the open competition:

| | EPSO/AD/124/08 — Head of Unit (AD9) having as main language Dutch, French or German for the Information Office of the European Parliament in Brussels. |
| --- | --- |

EPSO/AD/124/08 — Head of Unit (AD9) having as main language Dutch, French or German for the Information Office of the European Parliament in Brussels.

The competition notice is published in Dutch, French and German only, in Official Journal C 32 A of 6 February 2008.

Full details can be found on the EPSO website: http://europa.eu/epso

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PROCEDURES RELATING TO THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE COMPETITION POLICY

Commission

| 6.2.2008 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 32/15 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

6.2.2008

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 32/15

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Prior notification of a concentration

(Case COMP/M.5054 — Schwenk-Gruppe/Paul Hartmann)

Candidate case for simplified procedure

(Text with EEA relevance)

(2008/C 32/06)

| 1. | On 28 January 2008, the Commission received a notification of a proposed concentration pursuant to Article 4 of Council Regulation (EC) No 139/2004 (1) by which the undertaking Schwenk Limes GmbH & Co. KG belonging to the group Schwenk-Gruppe (‘Schwenk’, Germany) acquires within the meaning of Article 3(1)(b) of the Council Regulation control of the whole of the undertaking Paul Hartmann AG (‘Paul Hartmann’, Germany) by way of purchase of shares. |
| --- | --- |

1.

On 28 January 2008, the Commission received a notification of a proposed concentration pursuant to Article 4 of Council Regulation (EC) No 139/2004 (1) by which the undertaking Schwenk Limes GmbH & Co. KG belonging to the group Schwenk-Gruppe (‘Schwenk’, Germany) acquires within the meaning of Article 3(1)(b) of the Council Regulation control of the whole of the undertaking Paul Hartmann AG (‘Paul Hartmann’, Germany) by way of purchase of shares.

| 2. | The business activities of the undertakings concerned are:






  — | for Schwenk: building materials, |
| --- | --- | --- |

2.

The business activities of the undertakings concerned are:

—

for Schwenk: building materials,

| — | for Paul Hartmann: medical and care products. |
| --- | --- |

—

for Paul Hartmann: medical and care products.

| 3. | On preliminary examination, the Commission finds that the notified transaction could fall within the scope of Regulation (EC) No 139/2004. However, the final decision on this point is reserved. Pursuant to the Commission Notice on a simplified procedure for treatment of certain concentrations under Council Regulation (EC) No 139/2004 (2) it should be noted that this case is a candidate for treatment under the procedure set out in the Notice. |
| --- | --- |

3.

On preliminary examination, the Commission finds that the notified transaction could fall within the scope of Regulation (EC) No 139/2004. However, the final decision on this point is reserved. Pursuant to the Commission Notice on a simplified procedure for treatment of certain concentrations under Council Regulation (EC) No 139/2004 (2) it should be noted that this case is a candidate for treatment under the procedure set out in the Notice.

| 4. | The Commission invites interested third parties to submit their possible observations on the proposed operation to the Commission.
  Observations must reach the Commission not later than 10 days following the date of this publication. Observations can be sent to the Commission by fax ((32-2) 296 43 01 or 296 72 44) or by post, under reference number COMP/M.5054 — Schwenk-Gruppe/Paul Hartmann, to the following address:





  European Commission |
| --- | --- |
| Directorate-General for Competition |
| Merger Registry |
| J-70 |
| B-1049 Bruxelles/Brussel |

4.

The Commission invites interested third parties to submit their possible observations on the proposed operation to the Commission.

Observations must reach the Commission not later than 10 days following the date of this publication. Observations can be sent to the Commission by fax ((32-2) 296 43 01 or 296 72 44) or by post, under reference number COMP/M.5054 — Schwenk-Gruppe/Paul Hartmann, to the following address:

European Commission

Directorate-General for Competition

Merger Registry

J-70

B-1049 Bruxelles/Brussel

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(1)  OJ L 24, 29.1.2004, p. 1.

(2)  OJ C 56, 5.3.2005, p. 32.

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