# Official Journal L 49/21 F

| | ISSN 1725-2555 |
| --- | --- |
| Official Journal
  of the European Union | L 49 |
| | |
| English edition | Legislation | Volume 4921 February 2006 |

ISSN 1725-2555

Official Journal

of the European Union

L 49

English edition

Legislation

Volume 4921 February 2006

---

| Contents | | I   Acts whose publication is obligatory | page |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| | | Commission Regulation (EC) No 301/2006 of 20 February 2006 establishing the standard import values for determining the entry price of certain fruit and vegetables | 1 |
| | | Commission Regulation (EC) No 302/2006 of 20 February 2006 on import licences in respect of beef and veal products originating in Botswana, Kenya, Madagascar, Swaziland, Zimbabwe and Namibia | 3 |
| | | Commission Regulation (EC) No 303/2006 of 20 February 2006 on the issue of system B export licences in the fruit and vegetables sector (lemons and apples) | 5 |
| | | Commission Regulation (EC) No 304/2006 of 20 February 2006 determining the world market price for unginned cotton | 6 |

Contents

I   Acts whose publication is obligatory

page

Commission Regulation (EC) No 301/2006 of 20 February 2006 establishing the standard import values for determining the entry price of certain fruit and vegetables

1

Commission Regulation (EC) No 302/2006 of 20 February 2006 on import licences in respect of beef and veal products originating in Botswana, Kenya, Madagascar, Swaziland, Zimbabwe and Namibia

3

Commission Regulation (EC) No 303/2006 of 20 February 2006 on the issue of system B export licences in the fruit and vegetables sector (lemons and apples)

5

Commission Regulation (EC) No 304/2006 of 20 February 2006 determining the world market price for unginned cotton

6

| | | Acts adopted under Title V of the Treaty on European Union |
| --- | --- | --- |
| | * | Council Joint Action 2006/118/CFSP of 20 February 2006 extending the mandate of the European Union Special Representative for Central Asia and amending Joint Action 2005/588/CFSP | 7 |
| | * | Council Joint Action 2006/119/CFSP of 20 February 2006 extending the mandate of the European Union Special Representative for the Middle East peace process | 8 |
| | * | Council Joint Action 2006/120/CFSP of 20 February 2006 extending the mandate of the European Union Special Representative for Moldova | 11 |
| | * | Council Joint Action 2006/121/CFSP of 20 February 2006 appointing the European Union Special Representative for the South Caucasus | 14 |
| | * | Council Joint Action 2006/122/CFSP of 20 February 2006 extending the mandate of the Special Representative of the European Union for the African Great Lakes Region | 17 |
| | * | Council Joint Action 2006/123/CFSP of 20 February 2006 extending and amending the mandate of the European Union Special Representative in the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia | 20 |
| | * | Council Joint Action 2006/124/CFSP of 20 February 2006 extending the mandate of the Special Representative of the European Union for Afghanistan | 21 |

Acts adopted under Title V of the Treaty on European Union

*

Council Joint Action 2006/118/CFSP of 20 February 2006 extending the mandate of the European Union Special Representative for Central Asia and amending Joint Action 2005/588/CFSP

7

*

Council Joint Action 2006/119/CFSP of 20 February 2006 extending the mandate of the European Union Special Representative for the Middle East peace process

8

*

Council Joint Action 2006/120/CFSP of 20 February 2006 extending the mandate of the European Union Special Representative for Moldova

11

*

Council Joint Action 2006/121/CFSP of 20 February 2006 appointing the European Union Special Representative for the South Caucasus

14

*

Council Joint Action 2006/122/CFSP of 20 February 2006 extending the mandate of the Special Representative of the European Union for the African Great Lakes Region

17

*

Council Joint Action 2006/123/CFSP of 20 February 2006 extending and amending the mandate of the European Union Special Representative in the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia

20

*

Council Joint Action 2006/124/CFSP of 20 February 2006 extending the mandate of the Special Representative of the European Union for Afghanistan

21

| EN | Acts whose titles are printed in light type are those relating to day-to-day management of agricultural matters, and are generally valid for a limited period.
  The titles of all other Acts are printed in bold type and preceded by an asterisk. |
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EN

Acts whose titles are printed in light type are those relating to day-to-day management of agricultural matters, and are generally valid for a limited period.

The titles of all other Acts are printed in bold type and preceded by an asterisk.

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I Acts whose publication is obligatory

| 21.2.2006 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | L 49/1 |
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21.2.2006

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

L 49/1

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COMMISSION REGULATION (EC) No 301/2006

of 20 February 2006

establishing the standard import values for determining the entry price of certain fruit and vegetables

THE COMMISSION OF THE EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES,

Having regard to the Treaty establishing the European Community,

Having regard to Commission Regulation (EC) No 3223/94 of 21 December 1994 on detailed rules for the application of the import arrangements for fruit and vegetables (1), and in particular Article 4(1) thereof,

Whereas:

| (1) | Regulation (EC) No 3223/94 lays down, pursuant to the outcome of the Uruguay Round multilateral trade negotiations, the criteria whereby the Commission fixes the standard values for imports from third countries, in respect of the products and periods stipulated in the Annex thereto. |
| --- | --- |

(1)

Regulation (EC) No 3223/94 lays down, pursuant to the outcome of the Uruguay Round multilateral trade negotiations, the criteria whereby the Commission fixes the standard values for imports from third countries, in respect of the products and periods stipulated in the Annex thereto.

| (2) | In compliance with the above criteria, the standard import values must be fixed at the levels set out in the Annex to this Regulation, |
| --- | --- |

(2)

In compliance with the above criteria, the standard import values must be fixed at the levels set out in the Annex to this Regulation,

HAS ADOPTED THIS REGULATION:

Article 1

The standard import values referred to in Article 4 of Regulation (EC) No 3223/94 shall be fixed as indicated in the Annex hereto.

Article 2

This Regulation shall enter into force on 21 February 2006.

This Regulation shall be binding in its entirety and directly applicable in all Member States.

Done at Brussels, 20 February 2006.

For the Commission

J. L. DEMARTY

Director-General for Agriculture and Rural Development

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(1)  
  OJ L 337, 24.12.1994, p. 66. Regulation as last amended by Regulation (EC) No 386/2005 (OJ L 62, 9.3.2005, p. 3).

1

---

ANNEX

to Commission Regulation of 20 February 2006 establishing the standard import values for determining the entry price of certain fruit and vegetables

| (EUR/100 kg) |
| --- |
| CN code | Third country code (1) | Standard import value |
| 0702 00 00 | 052 | 79,6 |
| 204 | 48,3 |
| 212 | 95,5 |
| 624 | 111,0 |
| 999 | 83,6 |
| 0707 00 05 | 052 | 148,8 |
| 204 | 89,9 |
| 628 | 131,0 |
| 999 | 123,2 |
| 0709 10 00 | 220 | 79,4 |
| 624 | 95,8 |
| 999 | 87,6 |
| 0709 90 70 | 052 | 107,7 |
| 204 | 53,5 |
| 999 | 80,6 |
| 0805 10 20 | 052 | 54,3 |
| 204 | 52,1 |
| 212 | 41,8 |
| 220 | 45,3 |
| 624 | 62,3 |
| 999 | 51,2 |
| 0805 20 10 | 204 | 100,5 |
| 999 | 100,5 |
| 0805 20 30 , 0805 20 50 , 0805 20 70 , 0805 20 90 | 052 | 63,7 |
| 204 | 99,4 |
| 220 | 80,3 |
| 464 | 141,8 |
| 624 | 77,1 |
| 662 | 58,9 |
| 999 | 86,9 |
| 0805 50 10 | 052 | 45,8 |
| 220 | 68,7 |
| 999 | 57,3 |
| 0808 10 80 | 400 | 121,9 |
| 404 | 104,0 |
| 528 | 112,1 |
| 720 | 84,1 |
| 999 | 105,5 |
| 0808 20 50 | 388 | 77,2 |
| 400 | 77,0 |
| 512 | 80,6 |
| 528 | 79,4 |
| 720 | 68,0 |
| 999 | 76,4 |

(EUR/100 kg)

CN code

Third country code (1)

Standard import value

0702 00 00

052

79,6

204

48,3

212

95,5

624

111,0

999

83,6

0707 00 05

052

148,8

204

89,9

628

131,0

999

123,2

0709 10 00

220

79,4

624

95,8

999

87,6

0709 90 70

052

107,7

204

53,5

999

80,6

0805 10 20

052

54,3

204

52,1

212

41,8

220

45,3

624

62,3

999

51,2

0805 20 10

204

100,5

999

100,5

0805 20 30 , 0805 20 50 , 0805 20 70 , 0805 20 90

052

63,7

204

99,4

220

80,3

464

141,8

624

77,1

662

58,9

999

86,9

0805 50 10

052

45,8

220

68,7

999

57,3

0808 10 80

400

121,9

404

104,0

528

112,1

720

84,1

999

105,5

0808 20 50

388

77,2

400

77,0

512

80,6

528

79,4

720

68,0

999

76,4

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(1)  Country nomenclature as fixed by Commission Regulation (EC) No 750/2005 (OJ L 126, 19.5.2005, p. 12). Code ‘
  999
  ’ stands for ‘of other origin’.

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| 21.2.2006 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | L 49/3 |
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21.2.2006

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Official Journal of the European Union

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COMMISSION REGULATION (EC) No 302/2006

of 20 February 2006

on import licences in respect of beef and veal products originating in Botswana, Kenya, Madagascar, Swaziland, Zimbabwe and Namibia

THE COMMISSION OF THE EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES,

Having regard to the Treaty establishing the European Community,

Having regard to Council Regulation (EC) No 1254/1999 of 17 May 1999 on the common organisation of the market in beef and veal (1),

Having regard to Council Regulation (EC) No 2286/2002 of 10 December 2002 on the arrangements applicable to agricultural products and goods resulting from the processing of agricultural products originating in the African, Caribbean and Pacific States (ACP States) and repealing Regulation (EC) No 1706/98 (2),

Having regard to Commission Regulation (EC) No 2247/2003 of 19 December 2003 laying down detailed rules for the application in the beef and veal sector of Council Regulation (EC) No 2286/2002 on the arrangements applicable to agricultural products and certain goods resulting from the processing of agricultural products originating in the African, Caribbean and Pacific States (ACP States) (3), and in particular Article 5 thereof,

Whereas:

| (1) | Article 1 of Regulation (EC) No 2247/2003 provides for the possibility of issuing import licences for beef and veal products originating in Botswana, Kenya, Madagascar, Swaziland, Zimbabwe and Namibia. However, imports must take place within the limits of the quantities specified for each of these exporting non-member countries. |
| --- | --- |

(1)

Article 1 of Regulation (EC) No 2247/2003 provides for the possibility of issuing import licences for beef and veal products originating in Botswana, Kenya, Madagascar, Swaziland, Zimbabwe and Namibia. However, imports must take place within the limits of the quantities specified for each of these exporting non-member countries.

| (2) | The applications for import licences submitted between 1 to 10 February 2006, expressed in terms of boned meat, in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 2247/2003, do not exceed, in respect of products originating from Botswana, Kenya, Madagascar, Swaziland, Zimbabwe and Namibia, the quantities available from those States. It is therefore possible to issue import licences in respect of the quantities applied for. |
| --- | --- |

(2)

The applications for import licences submitted between 1 to 10 February 2006, expressed in terms of boned meat, in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 2247/2003, do not exceed, in respect of products originating from Botswana, Kenya, Madagascar, Swaziland, Zimbabwe and Namibia, the quantities available from those States. It is therefore possible to issue import licences in respect of the quantities applied for.

| (3) | The quantities in respect of which licences may be applied for from 1 March 2006 should be fixed within the scope of the total quantity of 52 100 t. |
| --- | --- |

(3)

The quantities in respect of which licences may be applied for from 1 March 2006 should be fixed within the scope of the total quantity of 52 100 t.

| (4) | This Regulation is without prejudice to Council Directive 72/462/EEC of 12 December 1972 on health and veterinary inspection problems upon importation of bovine, ovine and caprine animals and swine, fresh meat or meat products from third countries (4), |
| --- | --- |

(4)

This Regulation is without prejudice to Council Directive 72/462/EEC of 12 December 1972 on health and veterinary inspection problems upon importation of bovine, ovine and caprine animals and swine, fresh meat or meat products from third countries (4),

HAS ADOPTED THIS REGULATION:

Article 1

The following Member States shall issue on 21 February 2006 import licences for beef and veal products, expressed as boned meat, originating in certain African, Caribbean and Pacific States, in respect of the following quantities and countries of origin:

| | Germany:






  — | 220 t originating in Botswana, |
| --- | --- | --- |

Germany:

—

220 t originating in Botswana,

| — | 100 t originating in Namibia; |
| --- | --- |

—

100 t originating in Namibia;

| | United Kingdom:






  — | 150 t originating in Botswana, |
| --- | --- | --- |

United Kingdom:

—

150 t originating in Botswana,

| — | 200 t originating in Namibia. |
| --- | --- |

—

200 t originating in Namibia.

Article 2

Licence applications may be submitted, pursuant to Article 4(2) of Regulation (EC) No 2247/2003, during the first 10 days of March 2006 for the following quantities of boned beef and veal:

| Botswana: | 18 096 t, |
| --- | --- |
| Kenya: | 142 t, |
| Madagascar: | 7 579 t, |
| Swaziland: | 3 363 t, |
| Zimbabwe: | 9 100 t, |
| Namibia: | 12 250 t. |

Botswana:

18 096 t,

Kenya:

142 t,

Madagascar:

7 579 t,

Swaziland:

3 363 t,

Zimbabwe:

9 100 t,

Namibia:

12 250 t.

Article 3

This Regulation shall enter into force on 21 February 2006.

This Regulation shall be binding in its entirety and directly applicable in all Member States.

Done at Brussels, 20 February 2006.

For the Commission

J. L. DEMARTY

Director-General for Agriculture and Rural Development

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(1)  
  OJ L 160, 26.6.1999, p. 21. Regulation as last amended by Commission Regulation (EC) No 1899/2004 (OJ L 328, 30.10.2004, p. 67).

1

(2)  
  OJ L 348, 21.12.2002, p. 5.

2

(3)  
  OJ L 333, 20.12.2003, p. 37. Regulation as last amended by Regulation (EC) No 1118/2004 (OJ L 217, 17.6.2004, p. 10).

3

(4)  
  OJ L 302, 31.12.1972, p. 28. Directive as last amended by Regulation (EC) No 807/2003 (OJ L 122, 16.5.2003, p. 36).

4

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| 21.2.2006 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | L 49/5 |
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21.2.2006

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Official Journal of the European Union

L 49/5

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COMMISSION REGULATION (EC) No 303/2006

of 20 February 2006

on the issue of system B export licences in the fruit and vegetables sector (lemons and apples)

THE COMMISSION OF THE EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES,

Having regard to the Treaty establishing the European Community,

Having regard to Council Regulation (EC) No 2200/96 of 28 October 1996 on the common organisation of the market in fruit and vegetables (1),

Having regard to Commission Regulation (EC) No 1961/2001 of 8 October 2001 on detailed rules for implementing Council Regulation (EC) No 2200/96 as regards export refunds on fruit and vegetables (2), and in particular Article 6(6) thereof,

Whereas:

| (1) | Commission Regulation (EC) No 2044/2005 (3) fixes the indicative quantities for which system B export licences may be issued. |
| --- | --- |

(1)

Commission Regulation (EC) No 2044/2005 (3) fixes the indicative quantities for which system B export licences may be issued.

| (2) | In the light of the information available to the Commission today, there is a risk that the indicative quantities laid down for the current export period for lemons and apples will shortly be exceeded. This overrun will prejudice the proper working of the export refund scheme in the fruit and vegetables sector. |
| --- | --- |

(2)

In the light of the information available to the Commission today, there is a risk that the indicative quantities laid down for the current export period for lemons and apples will shortly be exceeded. This overrun will prejudice the proper working of the export refund scheme in the fruit and vegetables sector.

| (3) | To avoid this situation, applications for system B licences for lemons and apples after 21 February 2006 should be rejected until the end of the current export period, |
| --- | --- |

(3)

To avoid this situation, applications for system B licences for lemons and apples after 21 February 2006 should be rejected until the end of the current export period,

HAS ADOPTED THIS REGULATION:

Article 1

Applications for system B export licences for lemons and apples submitted pursuant to Article 1 of Regulation (EC) No 2044/2005, export declarations for which are accepted after 21 February and before 17 March 2006, are hereby rejected.

Article 2

This Regulation shall enter into force on 21 February 2006.

This Regulation shall be binding in its entirety and directly applicable in all Member States.

Done at Brussels, 20 February 2006.

For the Commission

J. L. DEMARTY

Director-General for Agriculture and Rural Development

---

(1)  
  OJ L 297, 21.11.1996, p. 1. Regulation as last amended by Commission Regulation (EC) No 47/2003 (OJ L 7, 11.1.2003, p. 64).

1

(2)  
  OJ L 268, 9.10.2001, p. 8. Regulation as last amended by Regulation (EC) No 386/2005 (OJ L 62, 9.3.2005, p. 3).

2

(3)  
  OJ L 328, 15.12.2005, p. 54.

3

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| 21.2.2006 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | L 49/6 |
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21.2.2006

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Official Journal of the European Union

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COMMISSION REGULATION (EC) No 304/2006

of 20 February 2006

determining the world market price for unginned cotton

THE COMMISSION OF THE EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES,

Having regard to the Treaty establishing the European Community,

Having regard to Protocol 4 on cotton, annexed to the Act of Accession of Greece, as last amended by Council Regulation (EC) No 1050/2001 (1),

Having regard to Council Regulation (EC) No 1051/2001 of 22 May 2001 on production aid for cotton (2), and in particular Article 4 thereof,

Whereas:

| (1) | In accordance with Article 4 of Regulation (EC) No 1051/2001, a world market price for unginned cotton is to be determined periodically from the price for ginned cotton recorded on the world market and by reference to the historical relationship between the price recorded for ginned cotton and that calculated for unginned cotton. That historical relationship has been established in Article 2(2) of Commission Regulation (EC) No 1591/2001 of 2 August 2001 laying down detailed rules for applying the cotton aid scheme (3). Where the world market price cannot be determined in this way, it is to be based on the most recent price determined. |
| --- | --- |

(1)

In accordance with Article 4 of Regulation (EC) No 1051/2001, a world market price for unginned cotton is to be determined periodically from the price for ginned cotton recorded on the world market and by reference to the historical relationship between the price recorded for ginned cotton and that calculated for unginned cotton. That historical relationship has been established in Article 2(2) of Commission Regulation (EC) No 1591/2001 of 2 August 2001 laying down detailed rules for applying the cotton aid scheme (3). Where the world market price cannot be determined in this way, it is to be based on the most recent price determined.

| (2) | In accordance with Article 5 of Regulation (EC) No 1051/2001, the world market price for unginned cotton is to be determined in respect of a product of specific characteristics and by reference to the most favourable offers and quotations on the world market among those considered representative of the real market trend. To that end, an average is to be calculated of offers and quotations recorded on one or more European exchanges for a product delivered cif to a port in the Community and coming from the various supplier countries considered the most representative in terms of international trade. However, there is provision for adjusting the criteria for determining the world market price for ginned cotton to reflect differences justified by the quality of the product delivered and the offers and quotations concerned. Those adjustments are specified in Article 3(2) of Regulation (EC) No 1591/2001. |
| --- | --- |

(2)

In accordance with Article 5 of Regulation (EC) No 1051/2001, the world market price for unginned cotton is to be determined in respect of a product of specific characteristics and by reference to the most favourable offers and quotations on the world market among those considered representative of the real market trend. To that end, an average is to be calculated of offers and quotations recorded on one or more European exchanges for a product delivered cif to a port in the Community and coming from the various supplier countries considered the most representative in terms of international trade. However, there is provision for adjusting the criteria for determining the world market price for ginned cotton to reflect differences justified by the quality of the product delivered and the offers and quotations concerned. Those adjustments are specified in Article 3(2) of Regulation (EC) No 1591/2001.

| (3) | The application of the above criteria gives the world market price for unginned cotton determined hereinafter, |
| --- | --- |

(3)

The application of the above criteria gives the world market price for unginned cotton determined hereinafter,

HAS ADOPTED THIS REGULATION:

Article 1

The world price for unginned cotton as referred to in Article 4 of Regulation (EC) No 1051/2001 is hereby determined as equalling 24,855 EUR/100 kg.

Article 2

This Regulation shall enter into force on 21 February 2006.

This Regulation shall be binding in its entirety and directly applicable in all Member States.

Done at Brussels, 20 February 2006.

For the Commission

J. L. DEMARTY

Director-General for Agriculture and Rural Development

---

(1)  
  OJ L 148, 1.6.2001, p. 1.

1

(2)  
  OJ L 148, 1.6.2001, p. 3.

2

(3)  
  OJ L 210, 3.8.2001, p. 10. Regulation as amended by Regulation (EC) No 1486/2002 (OJ L 223, 20.8.2002, p. 3).

3

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Acts adopted under Title V of the Treaty on European Union

| 21.2.2006 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | L 49/7 |
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Official Journal of the European Union

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COUNCIL JOINT ACTION 2006/118/CFSP

of 20 February 2006

extending the mandate of the European Union Special Representative for Central Asia and amending Joint Action 2005/588/CFSP

THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,

Having regard to the Treaty on European Union, and in particular Articles 14, 18(5) and 23(2) thereof,

Whereas:

| (1) | On 28 July 2005, the Council adopted Joint Action 2005/588/CFSP appointing a Special Representative of the European Union for Central Asia (1). |
| --- | --- |

(1)

On 28 July 2005, the Council adopted Joint Action 2005/588/CFSP appointing a Special Representative of the European Union for Central Asia (1).

| (2) | On the basis of a review of Joint Action 2005/588/CFSP, the mandate of the European Union Special Representative (EUSR) should be extended for a 12-month period and Joint Action 2005/588/CFSP should be amended. |
| --- | --- |

(2)

On the basis of a review of Joint Action 2005/588/CFSP, the mandate of the European Union Special Representative (EUSR) should be extended for a 12-month period and Joint Action 2005/588/CFSP should be amended.

| (3) | The EUSR will implement his mandate in the context of a situation which may deteriorate and could harm the objectives of the common foreign and security policy as set out in Article 11 of the Treaty, |
| --- | --- |

(3)

The EUSR will implement his mandate in the context of a situation which may deteriorate and could harm the objectives of the common foreign and security policy as set out in Article 11 of the Treaty,

HAS ADOPTED THIS JOINT ACTION:

Article 1

The mandate of Mr Ján KUBIŠ as the European Union Special Representative (EUSR) for Central Asia, as set out in Joint Action 2005/588/CFSP, is hereby extended until 28 February 2007.

Article 2

1.   The financial reference amount intended to cover the expenditure related to the EUSR’s mandate in the period from 1 March 2006 until 28 February 2007 shall be EUR 925 000.

2.   Expenditure shall be eligible as from 1 March 2006.

Article 3

Joint Action 2005/588/CFSP is hereby amended as follows:

| 1. | Article 9 shall be replaced by the following:

  ‘Article 9
  The implementation of this Joint Action and its consistency with other contributions from the European Union to the region shall be kept under regular review. The EUSR shall present to the Secretary General/High Representative (SG/HR), Council and Commission a progress report before the end of June 2006 and a comprehensive mandate implementation report by mid-November 2006. These reports shall form a basis for evaluation of this Joint Action in the relevant Working Groups and by the PSC. In the context of overall priorities for deployment, the SG/HR shall make recommendations to the PSC concerning the Council's decision on renewal, amendment or termination of the mandate.’; |
| --- | --- |

1.

Article 9 shall be replaced by the following:

‘Article 9

The implementation of this Joint Action and its consistency with other contributions from the European Union to the region shall be kept under regular review. The EUSR shall present to the Secretary General/High Representative (SG/HR), Council and Commission a progress report before the end of June 2006 and a comprehensive mandate implementation report by mid-November 2006. These reports shall form a basis for evaluation of this Joint Action in the relevant Working Groups and by the PSC. In the context of overall priorities for deployment, the SG/HR shall make recommendations to the PSC concerning the Council's decision on renewal, amendment or termination of the mandate.’;

| 2. | in Article 10, the second paragraph shall be deleted. |
| --- | --- |

2.

in Article 10, the second paragraph shall be deleted.

Article 4

This Joint Action shall enter into force on the day of its adoption.

Article 5

This Joint Action shall be published in the Official Journal of the European Union.

Done at Brussels, 20 February 2006.

For the Council

The President

J. PRÖLL

---

(1)  
  OJ L 199, 29.7.2005, p. 100.

1

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| 21.2.2006 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | L 49/8 |
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COUNCIL JOINT ACTION 2006/119/CFSP

of 20 February 2006

extending the mandate of the European Union Special Representative for the Middle East peace process

THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,

Having regard to the Treaty on European Union and, in particular, Articles 14, 18(5) and 23(2) thereof,

Whereas:

| (1) | The mandate of the European Union Special Representative (EUSR) for the Middle East peace process as set out in Council Joint Action 2003/873/CFSP of 8 December 2003 extending and amending the mandate of the Special Representative of the European Union for the Middle East peace process (1) is due to expire on 28 February 2006. |
| --- | --- |

(1)

The mandate of the European Union Special Representative (EUSR) for the Middle East peace process as set out in Council Joint Action 2003/873/CFSP of 8 December 2003 extending and amending the mandate of the Special Representative of the European Union for the Middle East peace process (1) is due to expire on 28 February 2006.

| (2) | On 14 November 2005 the Council adopted Joint Action 2005/797/CFSP (2) on the European Union Police Mission for the Palestinian territories, EUPOL COPPS, which designates a specific role of the EUSR. |
| --- | --- |

(2)

On 14 November 2005 the Council adopted Joint Action 2005/797/CFSP (2) on the European Union Police Mission for the Palestinian territories, EUPOL COPPS, which designates a specific role of the EUSR.

| (3) | On 12 December 2005 the Council adopted Joint Action 2005/889/CFSP (3) establishing a European Union Border Assistance Mission for the Rafah Crossing Point (EU BAM Rafah), which also designates a specific role of the EUSR. |
| --- | --- |

(3)

On 12 December 2005 the Council adopted Joint Action 2005/889/CFSP (3) establishing a European Union Border Assistance Mission for the Rafah Crossing Point (EU BAM Rafah), which also designates a specific role of the EUSR.

| (4) | On the basis of a review of Joint Action 2003/873/CFSP, the mandate of the EUSR should be revised and extended for a 12-month period. |
| --- | --- |

(4)

On the basis of a review of Joint Action 2003/873/CFSP, the mandate of the EUSR should be revised and extended for a 12-month period.

| (5) | The EUSR is to implement his mandate in the context of a situation which may deteriorate and could harm the objectives of the Common Foreign and Security Policy, as set out in Article 11 of the Treaty, |
| --- | --- |

(5)

The EUSR is to implement his mandate in the context of a situation which may deteriorate and could harm the objectives of the Common Foreign and Security Policy, as set out in Article 11 of the Treaty,

HAS ADOPTED THIS JOINT ACTION:

Article 1

The mandate of Mr Marc OTTE as the European Union Special Representative (EUSR) for the Middle East peace process is hereby extended until 28 February 2007.

Article 2

The mandate of the EUSR shall be based on the policy objectives of the European Union regarding the Middle East peace process.

These objectives include:

| (a) | a two-State solution with Israel and a democratic, viable, peaceful and sovereign Palestinian State living side-by-side within secure and recognised borders enjoying normal relations with their neighbours in accordance with United Nations Security Council Resolutions 242, 338, 1397 and 1402 and on the principles of the Madrid conference; |
| --- | --- |

(a)

a two-State solution with Israel and a democratic, viable, peaceful and sovereign Palestinian State living side-by-side within secure and recognised borders enjoying normal relations with their neighbours in accordance with United Nations Security Council Resolutions 242, 338, 1397 and 1402 and on the principles of the Madrid conference;

| (b) | solution in the Israeli-Syrian and Israeli-Lebanese tracks; |
| --- | --- |

(b)

solution in the Israeli-Syrian and Israeli-Lebanese tracks;

| (c) | a fair solution to the complex issue of Jerusalem and a just, viable and agreed solution to the problem of Palestinian refugees; |
| --- | --- |

(c)

a fair solution to the complex issue of Jerusalem and a just, viable and agreed solution to the problem of Palestinian refugees;

| (d) | early convening of a peace conference, which should address political and economic aspects as well as matters relating to security, confirm the parameters of a political solution and establish a realistic and well-defined timescale; |
| --- | --- |

(d)

early convening of a peace conference, which should address political and economic aspects as well as matters relating to security, confirm the parameters of a political solution and establish a realistic and well-defined timescale;

| (e) | the establishment of sustainable and effective policing arrangements under Palestinian ownership in accordance with best international standards, in cooperation with the European Community's institution building programmes as well as other international efforts in the wider context of security sector, including criminal justice reform; |
| --- | --- |

(e)

the establishment of sustainable and effective policing arrangements under Palestinian ownership in accordance with best international standards, in cooperation with the European Community's institution building programmes as well as other international efforts in the wider context of security sector, including criminal justice reform;

| (f) | providing a third party presence at the Rafah crossing point in order to contribute, in cooperation with the Community's institution-building efforts, to the opening of the Rafah crossing point and to build up confidence between the Government of Israel and the Palestinian Authority. |
| --- | --- |

(f)

providing a third party presence at the Rafah crossing point in order to contribute, in cooperation with the Community's institution-building efforts, to the opening of the Rafah crossing point and to build up confidence between the Government of Israel and the Palestinian Authority.

These objectives are based on the European Union's commitment to:

| (a) | work with the parties and with partners in the international community, especially within the framework of the Middle East Quartet, to pursue every opportunity for peace and for a decent future for all people of the region; |
| --- | --- |

(a)

work with the parties and with partners in the international community, especially within the framework of the Middle East Quartet, to pursue every opportunity for peace and for a decent future for all people of the region;

| (b) | continue to assist in Palestinian security reforms, early elections and political and administrative reforms; |
| --- | --- |

(b)

continue to assist in Palestinian security reforms, early elections and political and administrative reforms;

| (c) | contribute fully to peace building, as well as to the reconstruction of the Palestinian economy as an integral part of regional development. |
| --- | --- |

(c)

contribute fully to peace building, as well as to the reconstruction of the Palestinian economy as an integral part of regional development.

The EUSR shall support the work of the Secretary-General/High Representative (SG/HR) in the region, including in the framework of the Middle East Quartet.

Article 3

In order to achieve the policy objectives, the mandate of the EUSR shall be to:

| (a) | provide an active and efficient contribution from the European Union to actions and initiatives leading to a final settlement of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and of the Israeli-Syrian and Israeli-Lebanese conflicts; |
| --- | --- |

(a)

provide an active and efficient contribution from the European Union to actions and initiatives leading to a final settlement of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and of the Israeli-Syrian and Israeli-Lebanese conflicts;

| (b) | facilitate and maintain close contact with all the parties to the Middle East peace process, other countries of the region, members of the Middle East Quartet and other relevant countries, as well as the UN and other relevant international organisations, in order to work with them in strengthening the peace process; |
| --- | --- |

(b)

facilitate and maintain close contact with all the parties to the Middle East peace process, other countries of the region, members of the Middle East Quartet and other relevant countries, as well as the UN and other relevant international organisations, in order to work with them in strengthening the peace process;

| (c) | ensure continued presence of the European Union on the ground and in relevant international forums and contribute to crisis management and prevention; |
| --- | --- |

(c)

ensure continued presence of the European Union on the ground and in relevant international forums and contribute to crisis management and prevention;

| (d) | observe and support peace negotiations between the parties and offer the European Union's advice and good offices as appropriate; |
| --- | --- |

(d)

observe and support peace negotiations between the parties and offer the European Union's advice and good offices as appropriate;

| (e) | contribute, where requested, to the implementation of international agreements reached between the parties and engage with them diplomatically in the event of non-compliance with the terms of these agreements; |
| --- | --- |

(e)

contribute, where requested, to the implementation of international agreements reached between the parties and engage with them diplomatically in the event of non-compliance with the terms of these agreements;

| (f) | pay particular attention to factors having implication for the regional dimension of the Middle East peace process; |
| --- | --- |

(f)

pay particular attention to factors having implication for the regional dimension of the Middle East peace process;

| (g) | engage constructively with signatories to agreements within the framework of the peace process in order to promote compliance with the basic norms of democracy, including respect for human rights and the rule of law; |
| --- | --- |

(g)

engage constructively with signatories to agreements within the framework of the peace process in order to promote compliance with the basic norms of democracy, including respect for human rights and the rule of law;

| (h) | report on the possibilities for European Union intervention in the peace process and on the best way of pursuing European Union initiatives and ongoing Middle East peace process-related European Union efforts, such as the contribution of the European Union to Palestinian reforms, and including the political aspects of relevant European Union development projects; |
| --- | --- |

(h)

report on the possibilities for European Union intervention in the peace process and on the best way of pursuing European Union initiatives and ongoing Middle East peace process-related European Union efforts, such as the contribution of the European Union to Palestinian reforms, and including the political aspects of relevant European Union development projects;

| (i) | monitor actions by either side on the implementation of the roadmap and on issues that might prejudice the outcome of the permanent status negotiations to enable the Middle East Quartet to better assess the parties' compliance; |
| --- | --- |

(i)

monitor actions by either side on the implementation of the roadmap and on issues that might prejudice the outcome of the permanent status negotiations to enable the Middle East Quartet to better assess the parties' compliance;

| (j) | facilitate cooperation on security issues within the European Union-Palestinian Permanent Security Committee set up on 9 April 1998 as well as in other ways; |
| --- | --- |

(j)

facilitate cooperation on security issues within the European Union-Palestinian Permanent Security Committee set up on 9 April 1998 as well as in other ways;

| (k) | contribute to a better understanding of the role of the European Union among opinion leaders in the region; |
| --- | --- |

(k)

contribute to a better understanding of the role of the European Union among opinion leaders in the region;

| (l) | develop and implement an EU programme relating to security issues. To this end, the EUSR may be assisted by an expert charged with the practical implementation of operational projects related to security issues; |
| --- | --- |

(l)

develop and implement an EU programme relating to security issues. To this end, the EUSR may be assisted by an expert charged with the practical implementation of operational projects related to security issues;

| (m) | give guidance, as necessary, to the Head of Mission/Police Commissioner of the European Union Coordinating Office for Palestinian Police Support (EUPOL COPPS); |
| --- | --- |

(m)

give guidance, as necessary, to the Head of Mission/Police Commissioner of the European Union Coordinating Office for Palestinian Police Support (EUPOL COPPS);

| (n) | give guidance, as necessary, to the Head of Mission of the European Union Border Assistance Mission for the Rafah Crossing Point (EU BAM Rafah). |
| --- | --- |

(n)

give guidance, as necessary, to the Head of Mission of the European Union Border Assistance Mission for the Rafah Crossing Point (EU BAM Rafah).

Article 4

1.   The EUSR shall be responsible for the implementation of the mandate acting under the authority and operational direction of the SG/HR. The EUSR shall be accountable to the Commission for all expenditure.

2.   The Political and Security Committee (PSC) shall maintain a privileged link with the EUSR and shall be the primary point of contact with the Council. The PSC shall provide strategic guidance and political input to the EUSR within the framework of the mandate.

Article 5

1.   The financial reference amount intended to cover the expenditure related to the mandate of the EUSR shall be EUR 1 200 000.

2.   The expenditure financed by the amount stipulated in paragraph 1 shall be managed in accordance with the procedures and rules applicable to the general budget of the European Union with the exception that any pre-financing shall not remain the property of the Community.

3.   The management of the expenditure shall be subject to a contract between the EUSR and the Commission. Expenditure shall be eligible as from 1 March 2006.

4.   The Presidency, Commission, and/or Member States, as appropriate, shall provide logistical support in the region.

Article 6

1.   Within the limits of his mandate and the corresponding financial means made available, the EUSR shall be responsible for constituting his team in consultation with the Presidency, assisted by the SG/HR, and in full association with the Commission. The EUSR shall inform the Presidency and the Commission of the final composition of his team.

2.F   Member States and institutions of the European Union may propose the secondment of staff to work with the EUSR. The remuneration of personnel who might be seconded by a Member State or an institution of the European Union to the EUSR shall be covered by the Member State or the institution of the European Union concerned respectively.

3.   All A-type posts which are not covered by secondment shall be advertised as appropriate by the General Secretariat of the Council and also notified to Member States and institutions of the European Union in order to recruit the best-qualified applicants.

4.   The privileges, immunities and further guarantees necessary for the completion and smooth functioning of the mission of the EUSR and the members of his staff shall be defined with the parties. Member States and the Commission shall grant all necessary support to such effect.

Article 7

As a rule, the EUSR shall report in person to the SG/HR and to the PSC and may report also to the relevant working group. Regular written reports shall be circulated to the SG/HR, Council and Commission. The EUSR may report to the General Affairs and External Relations Council on the recommendation of the SG/HR and the PSC.

Article 8

To ensure the consistency of the external action of the European Union, the activities of the EUSR shall be coordinated with those of the SG/HR, the Presidency and the Commission. EUSR shall provide regular briefings to Member States' missions and Commission delegations. In the field, close liaison shall be maintained with the Presidency, the Commission and Heads of Mission who shall make best efforts to assist the EUSR in the implementation of the mandate. The EUSR shall also liaise with other international and regional actors in the field.

Article 9

The implementation of this Joint Action and its consistency with other contributions from the European Union to the region shall be kept under regular review. The EUSR shall present to the SG/HR, Council and Commission a progress report before the end of June 2006 and a comprehensive mandate implementation report by mid-November 2006. These reports shall form a basis for evaluation of this Joint Action in the relevant working groups and by the PSC. In the context of overall priorities for deployment, the SG/HR shall make recommendations to the PSC concerning the Council’s decision on renewal, amendment or termination of the mandate.

Article 10

This Joint Action shall enter into force on the date of its adoption.

It shall apply from 1 March 2006.

Article 11

This Joint Action shall be published in the Official Journal of the European Union.

Done at Brussels, 20 February 2006.

For the Council

The President

J. PRÖLL

---

(1)  
  OJ L 326, 13.12.2003, p. 46. Joint Action as last amended by Joint Action 2005/796/CFSP (OJ L 300, 17.11.2005, p. 64).

1

(2)  
  OJ L 300, 17.11.2005, p. 65.

2

(3)  
  OJ L 327, 14.12.2005, p. 28.

3

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| 21.2.2006 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | L 49/11 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

21.2.2006

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

L 49/11

---

COUNCIL JOINT ACTION 2006/120/CFSP

of 20 February 2006

extending the mandate of the European Union Special Representative for Moldova

THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,

Having regard to the Treaty on European Union and, in particular, Articles 14, 18(5) and 23(2) thereof,

Whereas:

| (1) | The mandate of the European Union Special Representative (EUSR) for Moldova as set out in Council Joint Action 2005/265/CFSP of 23 March 2005 appointing a Special Representative of the European Union for Moldova (1) is due to expire on 28 February 2006. |
| --- | --- |

(1)

The mandate of the European Union Special Representative (EUSR) for Moldova as set out in Council Joint Action 2005/265/CFSP of 23 March 2005 appointing a Special Representative of the European Union for Moldova (1) is due to expire on 28 February 2006.

| (2) | On 20 September 2005, the Political and Security Committee (PSC) agreed to the establishment of an EU Border Mission for Moldova-Ukraine including through the reinforcement of the team of the EUSR for Moldova. |
| --- | --- |

(2)

On 20 September 2005, the Political and Security Committee (PSC) agreed to the establishment of an EU Border Mission for Moldova-Ukraine including through the reinforcement of the team of the EUSR for Moldova.

| (3) | On the basis of a review of Joint Action 2005/265/CFSP, the mandate of the EUSR should be extended for a 12-month period. |
| --- | --- |

(3)

On the basis of a review of Joint Action 2005/265/CFSP, the mandate of the EUSR should be extended for a 12-month period.

| (4) | The EUSR will implement his mandate in the context of a situation which may deteriorate and could harm the objectives of the Common Foreign and Security Policy as set out in Article 11 of the Treaty, |
| --- | --- |

(4)

The EUSR will implement his mandate in the context of a situation which may deteriorate and could harm the objectives of the Common Foreign and Security Policy as set out in Article 11 of the Treaty,

HAS ADOPTED THIS JOINT ACTION:

Article 1

The mandate of Mr Adriaan JACOBOVITS de SZEGED as the European Union Special Representative (EUSR) for Moldova is hereby extended until 28 February 2007.

Article 2

1.   The EUSR’s mandate shall be based on the EU’s policy objectives in Moldova. These objectives include:

| (a) | to contribute to a peaceful settlement of the Transnistria conflict and to the implementation of such a settlement on the basis of a viable solution, respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Republic of Moldova within its internationally recognised borders; |
| --- | --- |

(a)

to contribute to a peaceful settlement of the Transnistria conflict and to the implementation of such a settlement on the basis of a viable solution, respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Republic of Moldova within its internationally recognised borders;

| (b) | to contribute to the strengthening of democracy, rule of law and respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms for all citizens of the Republic of Moldova; |
| --- | --- |

(b)

to contribute to the strengthening of democracy, rule of law and respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms for all citizens of the Republic of Moldova;

| (c) | to promote good and close relations between the Republic of Moldova and the EU on the basis of common values and interests and as set out in the European Neighbourhood Policy (ENP) Action Plan; |
| --- | --- |

(c)

to promote good and close relations between the Republic of Moldova and the EU on the basis of common values and interests and as set out in the European Neighbourhood Policy (ENP) Action Plan;

| (d) | to assist in the fight against the trafficking of human beings and of weapons and other goods, from and through Moldova; |
| --- | --- |

(d)

to assist in the fight against the trafficking of human beings and of weapons and other goods, from and through Moldova;

| (e) | to contribute to strengthening stability and cooperation in the region; |
| --- | --- |

(e)

to contribute to strengthening stability and cooperation in the region;

| (f) | to enhance EU effectiveness and visibility in the Republic of Moldova and the region; |
| --- | --- |

(f)

to enhance EU effectiveness and visibility in the Republic of Moldova and the region;

| (g) | to enhance the effectiveness of border and customs controls and border surveillance activities in Moldova and Ukraine along their common border, with a particular focus on the Transnistrian section, notably through an EU Border Mission. |
| --- | --- |

(g)

to enhance the effectiveness of border and customs controls and border surveillance activities in Moldova and Ukraine along their common border, with a particular focus on the Transnistrian section, notably through an EU Border Mission.

2.   The EUSR shall support the work of the Secretary General/High Representative (SG/HR) in the Republic of Moldova and the region, and work in close cooperation with the Presidency, EU Heads of Missions and the Commission.

Article 3

1.   In order to achieve the policy objectives, the EUSR’s mandate shall be to:

| (a) | strengthen the EU contribution to the resolution of the Transnistria conflict in accordance with agreed EU policy objectives and in close coordination with the OSCE, representing the EU through appropriate channels and in agreed fora and by developing and maintaining close contacts with all relevant actors; |
| --- | --- |

(a)

strengthen the EU contribution to the resolution of the Transnistria conflict in accordance with agreed EU policy objectives and in close coordination with the OSCE, representing the EU through appropriate channels and in agreed fora and by developing and maintaining close contacts with all relevant actors;

| (b) | assist in the preparation, as appropriate, of EU contributions to the implementation of an eventual conflict settlement; |
| --- | --- |

(b)

assist in the preparation, as appropriate, of EU contributions to the implementation of an eventual conflict settlement;

| (c) | follow closely political developments in the Republic of Moldova, including in the Transnistrian region, by developing and maintaining close contacts with the Government of the Republic of Moldova and other domestic actors, and offer as appropriate the EU’s advice and facilitation; |
| --- | --- |

(c)

follow closely political developments in the Republic of Moldova, including in the Transnistrian region, by developing and maintaining close contacts with the Government of the Republic of Moldova and other domestic actors, and offer as appropriate the EU’s advice and facilitation;

| (d) | assist in the further development of the EU’s policy towards the Republic of Moldova and the region, in particular regarding conflict prevention and conflict resolution; |
| --- | --- |

(d)

assist in the further development of the EU’s policy towards the Republic of Moldova and the region, in particular regarding conflict prevention and conflict resolution;

| (e) | through a support team led by a Senior Political Adviser to the EUSR:






  (i) | assure political overview of developments and activities related to the Moldovan-Ukrainian state border; |
| --- | --- | --- |

(e)

through a support team led by a Senior Political Adviser to the EUSR:

(i)

assure political overview of developments and activities related to the Moldovan-Ukrainian state border;

| (ii) | analyse the political commitment of Moldova and Ukraine to improving border management; |
| --- | --- |

(ii)

analyse the political commitment of Moldova and Ukraine to improving border management;

| (iii) | promote cooperation on border issues between the Moldovan and Ukrainian sides, also in view of building preconditions for a settlement to the Transnistrian conflict. |
| --- | --- |

(iii)

promote cooperation on border issues between the Moldovan and Ukrainian sides, also in view of building preconditions for a settlement to the Transnistrian conflict.

2.   For the purpose of the fulfilment of his mandate, the EUSR shall maintain an overview of all EU activities, notably the relevant aspects of the ENP Action Plan.

Article 4

1.   The EUSR shall be responsible for the implementation of the mandate acting under the authority and operational direction of the SG/HR. The EUSR shall be accountable to the Commission for all expenditure.

2.   The PSC shall maintain a privileged link with the EUSR and shall be the primary point of contact with the Council. The PSC shall provide the EUSR with strategic guidance and political input within the framework of the mandate.

Article 5

1.   The financial reference amount intended to cover the expenditure related to the EUSR’s mandate shall be EUR 1 030 000.

2.   The expenditure financed by the amount stipulated in paragraph 1 shall be managed in accordance with the procedures and rules applicable to the general budget of the European Union, with the exception that any pre-financing shall not remain the property of the Community.

3.   The management of the expenditure shall be subject to a contract between the EUSR and the Commission. The expenditure shall be eligible as from 1 March 2006.

4.   The Presidency, Commission, and/or Member States, as appropriate, shall provide logistical support in the region.

Article 6

1.   Within the limits of his mandate and the corresponding financial means made available, the EUSR shall be responsible for constituting his team in consultation with the Presidency, assisted by the SG/HR, and in full association with the Commission. The EUSR shall inform the Presidency and the Commission of the final composition of his team.

2.   Member States and EU institutions may propose the secondment of staff to work with the EUSR. The remuneration of staff who might be seconded by a Member State or an EU institution to the EUSR shall be covered by the Member State or the EU institution concerned respectively.

3.   All A-type posts which are not covered by secondment shall be advertised as appropriate by the General Secretariat of the Council and notified to Member States and EU institutions in order to recruit the best qualified applicants.

4.   The privileges, immunities and further guarantees necessary for the completion and smooth functioning of the mission of the EUSR and the members of his staff shall be defined with the parties. Member States and the Commission shall grant all necessary support to such effect.

Article 7

As a rule, the EUSR shall report in person to the SG/HR and to the PSC and may report also to the relevant working group. Regular written reports shall be circulated to the SG/HR, the Council and the Commission. On the recommendation of the SG/HR and the PSC, the EUSR may report to the General Affairs and External Relations Council.

Article 8

1.   To ensure the consistency of the external action of the EU, the activities of the EUSR shall be coordinated with those of the SG/HR, the Presidency and the Commission. EUSR shall provide regular briefings to Member States’ missions and Commission delegations. In the field, close liaison shall be maintained with the Presidency, the Commission and Heads of Mission, who shall make best efforts to assist the EUSR in the implementation of the mandate. The EUSR shall also liaise with other international and regional actors in the field.

2.   The Council and the Commission shall, each within their respective powers, ensure consistency between the implementation of this Joint Action and external activities of the Community in accordance with the second subparagraph of Article 3 of the Treaty. The Council and the Commission shall cooperate to this end.

Article 9

The implementation of this Joint Action and its consistency with other contributions from the EU to the region shall be kept under regular review. The EUSR shall present to the SG/HR, Council and Commission a progress report before the end of June 2006 and a comprehensive mandate implementation report by mid-November 2006. These reports shall form a basis for evaluation of this Joint Action in the relevant working groups and by the PSC. In the context of overall priorities for deployment, the SG/HR shall make recommendations to the PSC concerning the Council’s decision on renewal, amendment or termination of the mandate.

Article 10

This Joint Action shall enter into force on the date of its adoption.

Article 11

This Joint Action shall be published in the Official Journal of the European Union.

Done at Brussels, 20 February 2006.

For the Council

The President

J. PRÖLL

---

(1)  
  OJ L 81, 30.3.2005, p. 50. Joint Action as last amended by Joint Action 2005/776/CFSP (OJ L 292, 8.11.2005, p. 13).

1

---

| 21.2.2006 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | L 49/14 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

21.2.2006

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

L 49/14

---

COUNCIL JOINT ACTION 2006/121/CFSP

of 20 February 2006

appointing the European Union Special Representative for the South Caucasus

THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,

Having regard to the Treaty on European Union, and in particular Article 14 and Articles 18(5) and 23(2) thereof,

Whereas:

| (1) | The mandate of the European Union Special Representative (EUSR) for the South Caucasus, as set out in Council Joint Action 2003/872/CFSP of 8 December 2003 extending and amending the mandate of the Special Representative of the European Union for the South Caucasus (1), is due to expire on 28 February 2006. |
| --- | --- |

(1)

The mandate of the European Union Special Representative (EUSR) for the South Caucasus, as set out in Council Joint Action 2003/872/CFSP of 8 December 2003 extending and amending the mandate of the Special Representative of the European Union for the South Caucasus (1), is due to expire on 28 February 2006.

| (2) | On the basis of a review of that Joint Action, the mandate of the EUSR should be revised and extended for a 12-month period. |
| --- | --- |

(2)

On the basis of a review of that Joint Action, the mandate of the EUSR should be revised and extended for a 12-month period.

| (3) | Following the departure of EUSR Talvitie, the Secretary-General/High Representative (SG/HR) has recommended to appoint Mr Peter Semneby as the new EUSR for the South Caucasus. |
| --- | --- |

(3)

Following the departure of EUSR Talvitie, the Secretary-General/High Representative (SG/HR) has recommended to appoint Mr Peter Semneby as the new EUSR for the South Caucasus.

| (4) | The EUSR will implement his mandate in the context of a situation which may deteriorate and could harm the objectives of the Common Foreign and Security Policy as set out in Article 11 of the Treaty, |
| --- | --- |

(4)

The EUSR will implement his mandate in the context of a situation which may deteriorate and could harm the objectives of the Common Foreign and Security Policy as set out in Article 11 of the Treaty,

HAS ADOPTED THIS JOINT ACTION:

Article 1

Mr Peter SEMNEBY is hereby appointed European Union Special Representative (EUSR) for the South Caucasus as of 1 March 2006 until 28 February 2007.

Article 2

1.   The mandate of the EUSR shall be based on the policy objectives of the European Union in the South Caucasus. These objectives include:

| (a) | to assist Armenia, Azerbaijan and Georgia in carrying out political and economic reforms, notably in the fields of rule of law, democratisation, human rights, good governance, development and poverty reduction; |
| --- | --- |

(a)

to assist Armenia, Azerbaijan and Georgia in carrying out political and economic reforms, notably in the fields of rule of law, democratisation, human rights, good governance, development and poverty reduction;

| (b) | in accordance with existing mechanisms, to prevent conflicts in the region, to contribute to the peaceful settlement of conflicts, including through promoting the return of refugees and internally displaced persons; |
| --- | --- |

(b)

in accordance with existing mechanisms, to prevent conflicts in the region, to contribute to the peaceful settlement of conflicts, including through promoting the return of refugees and internally displaced persons;

| (c) | to engage constructively with main interested actors concerning the region; |
| --- | --- |

(c)

to engage constructively with main interested actors concerning the region;

| (d) | to encourage and to support further cooperation between States of the region, in particular between the States of the South Caucasus, including on economic, energy and transport issues; |
| --- | --- |

(d)

to encourage and to support further cooperation between States of the region, in particular between the States of the South Caucasus, including on economic, energy and transport issues;

| (e) | to enhance the effectiveness and visibility of the European Union in the region. |
| --- | --- |

(e)

to enhance the effectiveness and visibility of the European Union in the region.

2.   The EUSR shall support the work of the SG/HR in the region.

Article 3

In order to achieve the policy objectives, the mandate of the EUSR shall be to:

| (a) | develop contacts with governments, parliaments, judiciary and civil society in the region; |
| --- | --- |

(a)

develop contacts with governments, parliaments, judiciary and civil society in the region;

| (b) | encourage Armenia, Azerbaijan and Georgia to cooperate on regional themes of common interest, such as common security threats, the fight against terrorism, trafficking and organised crime; |
| --- | --- |

(b)

encourage Armenia, Azerbaijan and Georgia to cooperate on regional themes of common interest, such as common security threats, the fight against terrorism, trafficking and organised crime;

| (c) | contribute to the prevention of conflicts and to assist in creating the conditions for progress on settlement of conflicts, including through recommendations for action related to civil society and rehabilitation of the territories without prejudice to the Commission’s responsibilities under the EC Treaty; |
| --- | --- |

(c)

contribute to the prevention of conflicts and to assist in creating the conditions for progress on settlement of conflicts, including through recommendations for action related to civil society and rehabilitation of the territories without prejudice to the Commission’s responsibilities under the EC Treaty;

| (d) | contribute to the settlement of conflicts and to facilitate the implementation of such settlement in close coordination with the United Nations Secretary-General and his Special Representative for Georgia, the Group of Friends of the United Nations Secretary-General for Georgia, the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe and its Minsk Group, and the conflict resolution mechanism for South Ossetia; |
| --- | --- |

(d)

contribute to the settlement of conflicts and to facilitate the implementation of such settlement in close coordination with the United Nations Secretary-General and his Special Representative for Georgia, the Group of Friends of the United Nations Secretary-General for Georgia, the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe and its Minsk Group, and the conflict resolution mechanism for South Ossetia;

| (e) | intensify the European Union’s dialogue with the main interested actors concerning the region; |
| --- | --- |

(e)

intensify the European Union’s dialogue with the main interested actors concerning the region;

| (f) | assist the Council in further developing a comprehensive policy towards the South Caucasus; |
| --- | --- |

(f)

assist the Council in further developing a comprehensive policy towards the South Caucasus;

| (g) | through a support team:






  — | provide the European Union with reporting and a continued assessment of the border situation and to facilitate confidence-building between Georgia and the Russian Federation, thereby ensuring efficient cooperation and liaison with all relevant actors, |
| --- | --- | --- |

(g)

through a support team:

—

provide the European Union with reporting and a continued assessment of the border situation and to facilitate confidence-building between Georgia and the Russian Federation, thereby ensuring efficient cooperation and liaison with all relevant actors,

| — | assist the Georgian Border Guard and other relevant government institutions in Tbilisi in preparing a comprehensive reform strategy, |
| --- | --- |

—

assist the Georgian Border Guard and other relevant government institutions in Tbilisi in preparing a comprehensive reform strategy,

| — | work with the Georgian authorities to increase communication between Tbilisi and the border, including mentoring. This shall be done by working closely with Regional Border Guard Centres between Tbilisi and the border (excluding Abkhazia and South Ossetia). |
| --- | --- |

—

work with the Georgian authorities to increase communication between Tbilisi and the border, including mentoring. This shall be done by working closely with Regional Border Guard Centres between Tbilisi and the border (excluding Abkhazia and South Ossetia).

Article 4

1.   The EUSR shall be responsible for the implementation of the mandate acting under the authority and operational direction of the SG/HR. The EUSR shall be accountable to the Commission for all expenditure.

2.   The Political and Security Committee (PSC) shall maintain a privileged link with the EUSR and shall be the primary point of contact with the Council. The PSC shall provide strategic guidance and political input to the EUSR within the framework of the mandate.

Article 5

1.   The financial reference amount intended to cover the expenditure related to the mandate of the EUSR shall be EUR 2 960 000.

2.   The expenditure financed by the amount stipulated in paragraph 1 shall be managed in accordance with the procedures and rules applicable to the general budget of the European Union with the exception that any pre-financing shall not remain the property of the Community.

3.   The management of the expenditure shall be subject to a contract between the EUSR and the Commission. Expenditure shall be eligible as from 1 March 2006.

4.   The Presidency, Commission, and/or Member States, as appropriate, shall provide logistical support in the region.

Article 6

1.   Within the limits of his mandate and the corresponding financial means made available, the EUSR is responsible for constituting his team in consultation with the Presidency, assisted by the SG/HR, and in full association with the Commission. The EUSR shall inform the Presidency and the Commission of the final composition of his team.

2.   Member States and institutions of the European Union may propose the secondment of staff to work with the EUSR. The remuneration of personnel who might be seconded by a Member State or an institution of the European Union to the EUSR shall be covered by the Member State or the institution of the European Union concerned, respectively.

3.   All A-type posts which are not covered by secondment will be advertised as appropriate by the General Secretariat of the Council and also notified to Member States and institutions in order to recruit the best-qualified applicants.

4.   The privileges, immunities and further guarantees necessary for the completion and smooth functioning of the mission of the EUSR and the members of his staff shall be defined with the parties. Member States and the Commission shall grant all necessary support to such effect.

Article 7

As a rule, the EUSR shall report in person to the SG/HR and to the PSC and may report also to the relevant Working Group. Regular written reports including on activities of the support team shall be circulated to the SG/HR, Council and Commission. The EUSR may report to the General Affairs and External Relations Council on the recommendation of the SG/HR and the PSC.

Article 8

To ensure the consistency of the external action of the European Union, the activities of the EUSR shall be coordinated with those of the SG/HR, the Presidency and the Commission. The EUSR shall provide regular briefings to Member States’ missions and Commission delegations. In the field, close liaison shall be maintained with the Presidency, the Commission and Heads of Mission who shall make best efforts to assist the EUSR in the implementation of the mandate. The EUSR shall also liaise with other international and regional actors in the field.

Article 9

The implementation of this Joint Action and its consistency with other contributions from the European Union to the region shall be kept under regular review. The EUSR shall present to the SG/HR, Council and Commission a progress report before the end of June 2006 and a comprehensive mandate implementation report by mid-November 2006. These reports shall form a basis for evaluation of this Joint Action in the relevant Working Groups and by the PSC. In the context of overall priorities for deployment, the SG/HR shall make recommendations to the PSC concerning the Council’s decision on renewal, amendment or termination of the mandate.

Article 10

This Joint Action shall enter into force on the date of its adoption.

It shall apply as from 1 March 2006.

Article 11

This Joint Action shall be published in the Official Journal of the European Union.

Done at Brussels, 20 February 2006.

For the Council

The President

J. PRÖLL

---

(1)  
  OJ L 326, 13.12.2003, p. 44. Joint Action as last amended and extended by Joint Action 2005/582/CFSP (OJ L 199, 29.7.2005, p. 92).

1

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| 21.2.2006 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | L 49/17 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

21.2.2006

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

L 49/17

---

COUNCIL JOINT ACTION 2006/122/CFSP

of 20 February 2006

extending the mandate of the Special Representative of the European Union for the African Great Lakes Region

THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,

Having regard to the Treaty on European Union, and in particular Articles 14, 18(5) and 23(2) thereof,

Whereas:

| (1) | The mandate of the Special Representative of the European Union (EUSR) for the African Great Lakes Region, as set out in Council Joint Action 2003/869/CFSP of 8 December 2003 amending and extending the mandate of the Special Representative of the European Union for the African Great Lakes Region (1), is due to expire on 28 February 2006. |
| --- | --- |

(1)

The mandate of the Special Representative of the European Union (EUSR) for the African Great Lakes Region, as set out in Council Joint Action 2003/869/CFSP of 8 December 2003 amending and extending the mandate of the Special Representative of the European Union for the African Great Lakes Region (1), is due to expire on 28 February 2006.

| (2) | On the basis of a review of Joint Action 2003/869/CFSP, the mandate of the EUSR should be extended for a 12-month period. |
| --- | --- |

(2)

On the basis of a review of Joint Action 2003/869/CFSP, the mandate of the EUSR should be extended for a 12-month period.

| (3) | The EUSR will implement his mandate in the context of a situation which may deteriorate and could harm the objectives of the Common Foreign and Security Policy as set out in Article 11 of the Treaty, |
| --- | --- |

(3)

The EUSR will implement his mandate in the context of a situation which may deteriorate and could harm the objectives of the Common Foreign and Security Policy as set out in Article 11 of the Treaty,

HAS ADOPTED THIS JOINT ACTION:

Article 1

The mandate of Mr Aldo AJELLO as the European Union Special Representative (EUSR) for the African Great Lakes Region is hereby extended until 28 February 2007.

Article 2

The mandate of the EUSR shall be based on the policy objectives of the European Union regarding the peace and transition process in the African Great Lakes Region.

These objectives include:

| (a) | active and efficient contribution of the European Union to a final settlement of the transition in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and to political and economic developments in Burundi, Rwanda and Uganda; |
| --- | --- |

(a)

active and efficient contribution of the European Union to a final settlement of the transition in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and to political and economic developments in Burundi, Rwanda and Uganda;

| (b) | particular attention to the regional dimension of the developments in those countries; |
| --- | --- |

(b)

particular attention to the regional dimension of the developments in those countries;

| (c) | ensurance of the continued presence of the European Union on the ground and in relevant international fora, staying in touch with key players and contribution to crisis management; |
| --- | --- |

(c)

ensurance of the continued presence of the European Union on the ground and in relevant international fora, staying in touch with key players and contribution to crisis management;

| (d) | contribution to a consistent, sustainable and responsible policy of the European Union in the African Great Lakes Region. |
| --- | --- |

(d)

contribution to a consistent, sustainable and responsible policy of the European Union in the African Great Lakes Region.

The EUSR shall support the work of the Secretary-General/High Representative (SG/HR) in the region.

Article 3

In order to achieve the policy objectives, the mandate of the EUSR shall be to:

| (a) | establish and maintain close contact with all the Parties to the peace and transition process in the African Great Lakes Region, other countries of the region, the United States of America, other relevant countries, as well as the United Nations (UN) and other relevant international organisations, the African Union (AU) and sub-regional organisations and their representatives as well as other prominent regional leaders in order to work with them in strengthening the peace processes and peace agreements in the Region; |
| --- | --- |

(a)

establish and maintain close contact with all the Parties to the peace and transition process in the African Great Lakes Region, other countries of the region, the United States of America, other relevant countries, as well as the United Nations (UN) and other relevant international organisations, the African Union (AU) and sub-regional organisations and their representatives as well as other prominent regional leaders in order to work with them in strengthening the peace processes and peace agreements in the Region;

| (b) | observe the peace and transition processes between the parties and offer the European Union’s advice and good offices as appropriate; |
| --- | --- |

(b)

observe the peace and transition processes between the parties and offer the European Union’s advice and good offices as appropriate;

| (c) | contribute, where requested, to the implementation of peace and cease fire agreements reached between the parties and engage with them diplomatically in the event of non-compliance with the terms of these agreements; |
| --- | --- |

(c)

contribute, where requested, to the implementation of peace and cease fire agreements reached between the parties and engage with them diplomatically in the event of non-compliance with the terms of these agreements;

| (d) | engage constructively with signatories to agreements within the framework of the peace processes in order to promote compliance with the basic norms of democracy and good governance, including respect for human rights and the rule of law; |
| --- | --- |

(d)

engage constructively with signatories to agreements within the framework of the peace processes in order to promote compliance with the basic norms of democracy and good governance, including respect for human rights and the rule of law;

| (e) | contribute to the implementation of the EU Guidelines on Children and Armed Conflict; |
| --- | --- |

(e)

contribute to the implementation of the EU Guidelines on Children and Armed Conflict;

| (f) | contribute to and cooperate with the Special Representative of the Secretary-General of the UN for the Great Lakes Region and the Special Envoy of the Chairperson of the AU on the preparation of a conference on peace, security, democracy and development in the Great Lakes Region; |
| --- | --- |

(f)

contribute to and cooperate with the Special Representative of the Secretary-General of the UN for the Great Lakes Region and the Special Envoy of the Chairperson of the AU on the preparation of a conference on peace, security, democracy and development in the Great Lakes Region;

| (g) | report on the possibilities for European Union support to the peace and transition process and on the best way of pursuing European Union initiatives; |
| --- | --- |

(g)

report on the possibilities for European Union support to the peace and transition process and on the best way of pursuing European Union initiatives;

| (h) | monitor actions by the parties to the conflicts, which might prejudice the outcome of the ongoing peace processes; |
| --- | --- |

(h)

monitor actions by the parties to the conflicts, which might prejudice the outcome of the ongoing peace processes;

| (i) | contribute to a better understanding of the European Union’s role among opinion leaders in the region; |
| --- | --- |

(i)

contribute to a better understanding of the European Union’s role among opinion leaders in the region;

| (j) | provide advice and assistance, as required, for security sector reform in the DRC, in particular give political guidance to the Heads of the EU Police Mission (EUPOL Kinshasa) and of the EU Mission advising and assisting the Congolese authorities in the security sector reform (EUSEC RD Congo), in order to fulfil their duties at local level. |
| --- | --- |

(j)

provide advice and assistance, as required, for security sector reform in the DRC, in particular give political guidance to the Heads of the EU Police Mission (EUPOL Kinshasa) and of the EU Mission advising and assisting the Congolese authorities in the security sector reform (EUSEC RD Congo), in order to fulfil their duties at local level.

Article 4

1.   The EUSR shall be responsible for the implementation of the mandate acting under the authority and operational direction of the SG/HR. The EUSR shall be accountable to the Commission for all expenditure.

2.   The Political and Security Committee (PSC) shall maintain a privileged link with the EUSR and shall be the primary point of contact with the Council. The PSC shall provide strategic guidance and political input to the EUSR within the framework of the mandate.

Article 5

1.   The financial reference amount intended to cover the expenditure related to the mandate of the EUSR shall be EUR 820 000.

2.   The expenditure financed by the amount stipulated in paragraph 1 shall be managed in accordance with the procedures and rules applicable to the general budget of the European Union with the exception that any pre-financing shall not remain the property of the Community.

3.   The management of the expenditure shall be subject to a contract between the EUSR and the Commission. Expenditure shall be eligible as from 1 March 2006.

4.   The Presidency, Commission, and/or Member States, as appropriate, shall provide logistical support in the region.

Article 6

1.   Within the limits of his/her mandate and the corresponding financial means made available, the EUSR is responsible for constituting his/her team in consultation with the Presidency, assisted by the SG/HR, and in full association with the Commission. The EUSR shall inform the Presidency and the Commission of the final composition of his team.

2.   Member States and institutions of the European Union may propose the secondment of staff to work with the EUSR. The remuneration of personnel who might be seconded by a Member State or an institution of the European Union to the EUSR shall be covered by the Member State or the institution of the European Union concerned respectively.

3.   All A-type posts which are not covered by secondment shall be advertised as appropriate by the General Secretariat of the Council and also notified to Member States and institutions in order to recruit the best-qualified applicants.

4.   The privileges, immunities and further guarantees necessary for the completion and smooth functioning of the mission of the EUSR and the members of his staff shall be defined with the parties. Member States and the Commission shall grant all necessary support to such effect.

Article 7

As a rule, the EUSR shall report in person to the SG/HR and to the PSC and may report also to the relevant Working Group. Regular written reports shall be circulated to the SG/HR, the Council and the Commission. The EUSR may report to the General Affairs and External Relations Council on the recommendation of the SG/HR and the PSC.

Article 8

To ensure the consistency of the external action of the European Union, the activities of the EUSR shall be coordinated with those of the SG/HR, the Presidency and the Commission. The EUSR shall provide regular briefings to Member States’ missions and Commission delegations. In the field, close liaison shall be maintained with the Presidency, the Commission and Heads of Mission who shall make best efforts to assist the EUSR in the implementation of the mandate. The EUSR shall also liaise with other international and regional actors in the field.

Article 9

The implementation of this Joint Action and its consistency with other contributions from the European Union to the region shall be kept under regular review. The EUSR shall present to the SG/HR, Council and Commission a progress report before the end of June 2006 and a comprehensive mandate implementation report by mid-November 2006. These reports shall form a basis for evaluation of this Joint Action in the relevant working groups and by the PSC. In the context of overall priorities for deployment, the SG/HR shall make recommendations to the PSC concerning the Council’s decision on renewal, amendment or termination of the mandate.

Article 10

This Joint Action shall enter into force on the day of its adoption.

Article 11

This Joint Action shall be published in the Official Journal of the European Union.

Done at Brussels, 20 February 2006.

For the Council

The President

J. PRÖLL

---

(1)  
  OJ L 326, 13.12.2003, p. 37. Joint Action as last extended and amended by Joint Action 2005/586/CFSP (OJ L 199, 29.7.2005, p. 97).

1

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| 21.2.2006 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | L 49/20 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

21.2.2006

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

L 49/20

---

COUNCIL JOINT ACTION 2006/123/CFSP

of 20 February 2006

extending and amending the mandate of the European Union Special Representative in the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia

THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,

Having regard to the Treaty on European Union, and in particular Article 14 and Articles 18(5) and 23(2) thereof,

Whereas:

| (1) | On 17 October 2005, the Council adopted Joint Action 2005/724/CFSP (1) appointing the European Union Special Representative (EUSR) in the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia. |
| --- | --- |

(1)

On 17 October 2005, the Council adopted Joint Action 2005/724/CFSP (1) appointing the European Union Special Representative (EUSR) in the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia.

| (2) | On 24 November 2005, the Council adopted Joint Action 2005/826/CFSP (2) on the establishment of an EU Police Advisory Team (EUPAT) in the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia which designates a specific role for the EUSR in the chain of command. |
| --- | --- |

(2)

On 24 November 2005, the Council adopted Joint Action 2005/826/CFSP (2) on the establishment of an EU Police Advisory Team (EUPAT) in the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia which designates a specific role for the EUSR in the chain of command.

| (3) | On the basis of a review of Joint Action 2005/724/CFSP, the mandate of the EUSR should be amended and extended for a 12-month period, |
| --- | --- |

(3)

On the basis of a review of Joint Action 2005/724/CFSP, the mandate of the EUSR should be amended and extended for a 12-month period,

HAS ADOPTED THIS JOINT ACTION:

Article 1

The mandate of Mr Erwan FOUÉRÉ as the EUSR in the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, as set out in Joint Action 2005/724/CFSP is hereby extended until 28 February 2007.

Article 2

1.   The financial reference amount intended to cover the expenditure related to the EUSR’s mandate in the period from 1 March 2006 until 28 February 2007 shall be EUR 675 000.

2.   Expenditure shall be eligible as from 1 March 2006.

Article 3

Joint Action 2005/724/CFSP is hereby amended as follows:

| 1. | Article 3, subparagraphs (e) and (f) shall be replaced by the following:






  ‘(e) | provide local political guidance to the Head of the EU Police Advisory Team (EUPAT), ensure coordination between the EUPAT and other EU actors, and assume responsibility for relations between EUPAT and host party authorities and media; |
| --- | --- | --- |

1.

Article 3, subparagraphs (e) and (f) shall be replaced by the following:

‘(e)

provide local political guidance to the Head of the EU Police Advisory Team (EUPAT), ensure coordination between the EUPAT and other EU actors, and assume responsibility for relations between EUPAT and host party authorities and media;

| (f) | together with the Head of EUPAT and in coordination with the presidency, conduct a regular dialogue with the authorities of the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia on the progress of the activities of EUPAT.’; |
| --- | --- |

(f)

together with the Head of EUPAT and in coordination with the presidency, conduct a regular dialogue with the authorities of the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia on the progress of the activities of EUPAT.’;

| 2. | Article 9 shall be replaced by the following:

  ‘Article 9
  The implementation of this Joint Action and its consistency with other contributions from the European Union to the region shall be kept under regular review. The EUSR shall present to the Secretary-General/High Representative (SG/HR), Council and Commission a progress report before the end of June 2006 and a comprehensive mandate implementation report by mid-November 2006. These reports shall form a basis for evaluation of this Joint Action in the relevant Working Groups and by the Political and Security Committee (PSC). In the context of overall priorities for deployment, the SG/HR shall make recommendations to the PSC concerning the Council’s decision on renewal, amendment or termination of the mandate.’ |
| --- | --- |

2.

Article 9 shall be replaced by the following:

‘Article 9

The implementation of this Joint Action and its consistency with other contributions from the European Union to the region shall be kept under regular review. The EUSR shall present to the Secretary-General/High Representative (SG/HR), Council and Commission a progress report before the end of June 2006 and a comprehensive mandate implementation report by mid-November 2006. These reports shall form a basis for evaluation of this Joint Action in the relevant Working Groups and by the Political and Security Committee (PSC). In the context of overall priorities for deployment, the SG/HR shall make recommendations to the PSC concerning the Council’s decision on renewal, amendment or termination of the mandate.’

Article 4

This Joint Action shall enter into force on the date of its adoption.

Article 5

This Joint Action shall be published in the Official Journal of the European Union.

Done at Brussels, 20 February 2006.

For the Council

The President

J. PRÖLL

---

(1)  
  OJ L 272, 18.10.2005, p. 26.

1

(2)  
  OJ L 307, 25.11.2005, p. 61.

2

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| 21.2.2006 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | L 49/21 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

21.2.2006

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

L 49/21

---

COUNCIL JOINT ACTION 2006/124/CFSP

of 20 February 2006

extending the mandate of the Special Representative of the European Union for Afghanistan

THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,

Having regard to the Treaty on European Union and, in particular, Articles 14, 18(5) and 23(2) thereof,

Whereas:

| (1) | The mandate of the European Union Special Representative for Afghanistan (EUSR), as set out in Council Joint Action 2003/871/CFSP (1) expires on 28 February 2006. |
| --- | --- |

(1)

The mandate of the European Union Special Representative for Afghanistan (EUSR), as set out in Council Joint Action 2003/871/CFSP (1) expires on 28 February 2006.

| (2) | On the basis of a review of Joint Action 2003/871/CFSP, the mandate of the EUSR should be revised and extended for a 12-month period. |
| --- | --- |

(2)

On the basis of a review of Joint Action 2003/871/CFSP, the mandate of the EUSR should be revised and extended for a 12-month period.

| (3) | The EUSR will implement his mandate in the context of a situation which may deteriorate and could harm the objectives of the Common Foreign and Security Policy as set out in Article 11 of the Treaty, |
| --- | --- |

(3)

The EUSR will implement his mandate in the context of a situation which may deteriorate and could harm the objectives of the Common Foreign and Security Policy as set out in Article 11 of the Treaty,

HAS ADOPTED THIS JOINT ACTION:

Article 1

The mandate of Mr Francesc VENDRELL as the EUSR in Afghanistan is hereby extended until 28 February 2007.

Article 2

The mandate of the EUSR shall be based on the policy objectives of the EU in Afghanistan. In particular the EUSR shall:

| 1. | contribute to the implementation of the EU-Afghanistan Joint Declaration and the Afghanistan Compact as well as the relevant United Nations (UN) Security Council Resolutions and other relevant UN Resolutions; |
| --- | --- |

1.

contribute to the implementation of the EU-Afghanistan Joint Declaration and the Afghanistan Compact as well as the relevant United Nations (UN) Security Council Resolutions and other relevant UN Resolutions;

| 2. | encourage positive contributions from regional actors in Afghanistan and from neighbouring countries to the peace process in Afghanistan and thereby contribute to the consolidation of the Afghan state; |
| --- | --- |

2.

encourage positive contributions from regional actors in Afghanistan and from neighbouring countries to the peace process in Afghanistan and thereby contribute to the consolidation of the Afghan state;

| 3. | support the pivotal role played by the UN, notably the Special Representative of the Secretary-General; and |
| --- | --- |

3.

support the pivotal role played by the UN, notably the Special Representative of the Secretary-General; and

| 4. | support work of the Secretary General/High Representative (SG/HR) in the region. |
| --- | --- |

4.

support work of the Secretary General/High Representative (SG/HR) in the region.

Article 3

In order to achieve the policy objectives, the mandate of the EUSR shall be to:

| (a) | convey the EU’s views on the political process while drawing on the key principles agreed between Afghanistan and the international community, in particular the EU-Afghanistan Joint Declaration and the Afghanistan Compact; |
| --- | --- |

(a)

convey the EU’s views on the political process while drawing on the key principles agreed between Afghanistan and the international community, in particular the EU-Afghanistan Joint Declaration and the Afghanistan Compact;

| (b) | establish and maintain close contact with and give support to the Afghan representative institutions, in particular the government and Parliament. Contact should also be maintained with other Afghan political figures and other relevant players inside as well as outside the country; |
| --- | --- |

(b)

establish and maintain close contact with and give support to the Afghan representative institutions, in particular the government and Parliament. Contact should also be maintained with other Afghan political figures and other relevant players inside as well as outside the country;

| (c) | maintain close contact with relevant international and regional organisations, notably with the local representatives of the UN; |
| --- | --- |

(c)

maintain close contact with relevant international and regional organisations, notably with the local representatives of the UN;

| (d) | stay in close contact with neighbouring and other interested countries in the region, so that their views on the situation in Afghanistan and the development of cooperation between these countries and Afghanistan are taken into account in EU policy; |
| --- | --- |

(d)

stay in close contact with neighbouring and other interested countries in the region, so that their views on the situation in Afghanistan and the development of cooperation between these countries and Afghanistan are taken into account in EU policy;

| (e) | advise on the progress achieved in meeting the objectives of the EU-Afghanistan Joint Declaration and the Afghanistan Compact, — in particular in the following areas:






  — | good governance and the establishment of rule of law institutions, |
| --- | --- | --- |

(e)

advise on the progress achieved in meeting the objectives of the EU-Afghanistan Joint Declaration and the Afghanistan Compact, — in particular in the following areas:

—

good governance and the establishment of rule of law institutions,

| — | security sector reforms, including establishment of judicial institutions, a national army and police force, |
| --- | --- |

—

security sector reforms, including establishment of judicial institutions, a national army and police force,

| — | respect for human rights of all Afghan people, regardless of gender, ethnicity or religion, |
| --- | --- |

—

respect for human rights of all Afghan people, regardless of gender, ethnicity or religion,

| — | respect of democratic principles, the rule of law, the rights of persons belonging to minorities, the rights of women and children and the principles of international law, |
| --- | --- |

—

respect of democratic principles, the rule of law, the rights of persons belonging to minorities, the rights of women and children and the principles of international law,

| — | fostering participation by women in public administration and civil society, |
| --- | --- |

—

fostering participation by women in public administration and civil society,

| — | respect for Afghanistan’s international obligations, including cooperation in international efforts to combat terrorism, illicit drug trafficking and trafficking in human beings, |
| --- | --- |

—

respect for Afghanistan’s international obligations, including cooperation in international efforts to combat terrorism, illicit drug trafficking and trafficking in human beings,

| — | facilitation of humanitarian assistance and the orderly return of refugees and internally displaced persons; |
| --- | --- |

—

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

| (f) | in consultation with representatives of Member States and the Commission, assist in ensuring that the EU’s political approach is reflected in its action for the development of Afghanistan; |
| --- | --- |

(f)

in consultation with representatives of Member States and the Commission, assist in ensuring that the EU’s political approach is reflected in its action for the development of Afghanistan;

| (g) | jointly with the Commission, actively participate in the Monitoring Mechanism established under the Afghanistan Compact; |
| --- | --- |

(g)

jointly with the Commission, actively participate in the Monitoring Mechanism established under the Afghanistan Compact;

| (h) | advise on the participation and the positions of the EU in international conferences on Afghanistan. |
| --- | --- |

(h)

advise on the participation and the positions of the EU in international conferences on Afghanistan.

Article 4

1.   The EUSR shall be responsible for the implementation of the mandate acting under the authority and operational direction of the SG/HR. The EUSR shall be accountable to the Commission for all expenditure.

2.   The Political and Security Committee (PSC) shall maintain a privileged link with the EUSR and shall be the primary point of contact with the Council. The PSC shall provide strategic guidance and political input to the EUSR within the framework of the mandate.

Article 5

1.   The financial reference amount intended to cover the expenditure related to the mandate of the EUSR shall be EUR 1 330 000.

2.   The expenditure financed by the amount stipulated in paragraph 1 shall be managed in accordance with the procedures and rules applicable to the general budget of the European Union with the exception that any pre-financing shall not remain the property of the Community.

3.   The management of the expenditure shall be subject to a contract between the EUSR and the Commission. Expenditure shall be eligible as from 1 March 2006.

4.   The Presidency, Commission, and/or Member States, as appropriate, will provide logistical support in the region.

Article 6

1.   Within the limits of his mandate and the corresponding financial means made available, the EUSR is responsible for constituting his team in consultation with the Presidency, assisted by the SG/HR, and in full association with the Commission. The EUSR shall inform the Presidency and the Commission of the final composition of his team.

2.   Member States and institutions of the EU may propose the secondment of staff to work with the EUSR. The remuneration of personnel who might be seconded by a Member State or an institution of the EU to the EUSR shall be covered by the Member State or the institution of the EU concerned respectively.

3.   All A-type posts which are not covered by secondment will be advertised as appropriate by the General Secretariat of the Council and also notified to Member States and institutions of the EU in order to recruit the best-qualified applicants.

4.   The privileges, immunities and further guarantees necessary for the completion and smooth functioning of the mission of the EUSR and the members of his staff shall be defined with the parties. Member States and the Commission shall grant all necessary support to such effect.

Article 7

As a rule, the EUSR will report in person to the SG/HR and to the PSC and may report also to the relevant Working Group. Regular written reports will be circulated to the SG/HR, Council and Commission. The EUSR may report to the General Affairs and External Relations Council on the recommendation of the SG/HR and the PSC.

Article 8

To ensure the consistency of the external action of the EU, the activities of the EUSR shall be coordinated with those of the SG/HR, the Presidency and the Commission. The EUSR shall provide regular briefings to Member States’ missions and Commission delegations. In the field, close liaison shall be maintained with the Presidency, the Commission and Heads of Mission who shall make best efforts to assist the EUSR in the implementation of the mandate. The EUSR shall also liaise with other international and regional actors in the field.

Article 9

The implementation of this Joint Action and its consistency with other contributions from the EU to the region shall be kept under regular review. The EUSR shall present to the SG/HR, Council and Commission a progress report before the end of June 2006 and a comprehensive mandate implementation report by mid-November 2006. These reports shall form a basis for evaluation of this Joint Action in the relevant Working Groups and by the PSC. In the context of overall priorities for deployment, the SG/HR shall make recommendations to the PSC concerning the Council’s decision on renewal, amendment or termination of the mandate.

Article 10

This Joint Action shall enter into force on the day of its adoption. It shall apply as from 1 March 2006.

Article 11

This Joint Action shall be published in the Official Journal of the European Union.

Done at Brussels, 20 February 2006.

For the Council

The President

J. PRÖLL

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(1)  
  OJ L 326, 13.12.2003, p. 41. Joint Action as last amended by Joint Action 2005/585/CFSP (OJ L 199, 29.7.2005, p. 96).

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