# Official Journal L 207/2020

| | ISSN 1977-0677 |
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| Official Journal
  of the European Union | L 207 |
| | |
| English edition | Legislation | Volume 6330 June 2020 |

ISSN 1977-0677

Official Journal

of the European Union

L 207

English edition

Legislation

Volume 6330 June 2020

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| Contents | | II   Non-legislative acts | page |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| | | INTERNATIONAL AGREEMENTS |
| | * | Council Decision (EU) 2020/899 of 26 June 2020 on the conclusion, on behalf of the Union and its Member States, of a Protocol amending the Euro-Mediterranean Aviation Agreement between the European Union and its Member States, of the one part, and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, of the other part, to take account of the accession to the European Union of the Republic of Croatia | 1 |
| | * | Notice concerning the date of entry into force of the Free Trade Agreement between the European Union and the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam | 3 |
| | | REGULATIONS |
| | * | Council Regulation (EU) 2020/900 of 25 June 2020 amending Regulation (EU) 2019/1838 as regards certain fishing opportunities for 2020 in the Baltic Sea and amending Regulation (EU) 2020/123 as regards certain fishing opportunities in 2020 in Union and non-Union waters | 4 |
| | | DECISIONS |
| | * | Council Decision (CFSP) 2020/901 of 29 June 2020 on Union support for the activities of the Preparatory Commission of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organisation (CTBTO) in order to strengthen its monitoring and verification capabilities and in the framework of the implementation of the EU Strategy against Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction | 15 |
| | * | Council Decision (CFSP) 2020/902 of 29 June 2020 amending Decision 2013/354/CFSP on the European Union Police Mission for the Palestinian Territories (EUPOL COPPS) | 30 |
| | * | Council Decision (CFSP) 2020/903 of 29 June 2020 amending Decision 2013/233/CFSP on the European Union Integrated Border Management Assistance Mission in Libya (EUBAM Libya) | 32 |
| | * | Council Decision (CFSP) 2020/904 of 29 June 2020 amending Decision (CFSP) 2017/1424 as regards the expiry date for support of OSCE activities relating to the reduction of small arms, light weapons and conventional ammunition in the Republic of North Macedonia and in Georgia | 34 |
| | * | Council Decision (CFSP) 2020/905 of 29 June 2020 amending Decision (CFSP) 2017/1428 in support of the implementation of the Maputo Action Plan for the implementation of the 1997 Convention on the Prohibition of the Use, Stockpiling, Production and Transfer of Anti-Personnel Mines and on their Destruction | 35 |
| | * | Council Decision (CFSP) 2020/906 of 29 June 2020 amending Decision (CFSP) 2019/615 on Union support for activities leading up to the 2020 Review Conference of the Parties to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) | 36 |
| | * | Council Decision (CFSP) 2020/907 of 29 June 2020 amending Decision 2014/512/CFSP concerning restrictive measures in view of Russia’s actions destabilising the situation in Ukraine | 37 |

Contents

II   Non-legislative acts

page

INTERNATIONAL AGREEMENTS

*

Council Decision (EU) 2020/899 of 26 June 2020 on the conclusion, on behalf of the Union and its Member States, of a Protocol amending the Euro-Mediterranean Aviation Agreement between the European Union and its Member States, of the one part, and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, of the other part, to take account of the accession to the European Union of the Republic of Croatia

1

*

Notice concerning the date of entry into force of the Free Trade Agreement between the European Union and the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam

3

REGULATIONS

*

Council Regulation (EU) 2020/900 of 25 June 2020 amending Regulation (EU) 2019/1838 as regards certain fishing opportunities for 2020 in the Baltic Sea and amending Regulation (EU) 2020/123 as regards certain fishing opportunities in 2020 in Union and non-Union waters

4

DECISIONS

*

Council Decision (CFSP) 2020/901 of 29 June 2020 on Union support for the activities of the Preparatory Commission of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organisation (CTBTO) in order to strengthen its monitoring and verification capabilities and in the framework of the implementation of the EU Strategy against Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction

15

*

Council Decision (CFSP) 2020/902 of 29 June 2020 amending Decision 2013/354/CFSP on the European Union Police Mission for the Palestinian Territories (EUPOL COPPS)

30

*

Council Decision (CFSP) 2020/903 of 29 June 2020 amending Decision 2013/233/CFSP on the European Union Integrated Border Management Assistance Mission in Libya (EUBAM Libya)

32

*

Council Decision (CFSP) 2020/904 of 29 June 2020 amending Decision (CFSP) 2017/1424 as regards the expiry date for support of OSCE activities relating to the reduction of small arms, light weapons and conventional ammunition in the Republic of North Macedonia and in Georgia

34

*

Council Decision (CFSP) 2020/905 of 29 June 2020 amending Decision (CFSP) 2017/1428 in support of the implementation of the Maputo Action Plan for the implementation of the 1997 Convention on the Prohibition of the Use, Stockpiling, Production and Transfer of Anti-Personnel Mines and on their Destruction

35

*

Council Decision (CFSP) 2020/906 of 29 June 2020 amending Decision (CFSP) 2019/615 on Union support for activities leading up to the 2020 Review Conference of the Parties to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT)

36

*

Council Decision (CFSP) 2020/907 of 29 June 2020 amending Decision 2014/512/CFSP concerning restrictive measures in view of Russia’s actions destabilising the situation in Ukraine

37

| 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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II Non-legislative acts

INTERNATIONAL AGREEMENTS

| 30.6.2020 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | L 207/1 |
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30.6.2020

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

L 207/1

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COUNCIL DECISION (EU) 2020/899

of 26 June 2020

on the conclusion, on behalf of the Union and its Member States, of a Protocol amending the Euro-Mediterranean Aviation Agreement between the European Union and its Member States, of the one part, and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, of the other part, to take account of the accession to the European Union of the Republic of Croatia

THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,

Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, and in particular Article 100(2), in conjunction with Article 218(6)(a) thereof,

Having regard to the Act of Accession of Croatia, and in particular the second subparagraph of Article 6(2) thereof,

Having regard to the proposal from the European Commission,

Having regard to the consent of the European Parliament (1),

Whereas:

| (1) | In accordance with Council Decision (EU) 2016/803 (2), the Protocol amending the Euro-Mediterranean Aviation Agreement between the European Union and its Member States, of the one part, and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, of the other part (3), to take account of the accession to the European Union of the Republic of Croatia (‘the Protocol’) has been signed, subject to its conclusion. |
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(1)

In accordance with Council Decision (EU) 2016/803 (2), the Protocol amending the Euro-Mediterranean Aviation Agreement between the European Union and its Member States, of the one part, and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, of the other part (3), to take account of the accession to the European Union of the Republic of Croatia (‘the Protocol’) has been signed, subject to its conclusion.

| (2) | The Protocol should be approved, |
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(2)

The Protocol should be approved,

HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:

Article 1

The Protocol amending the Euro-Mediterranean Aviation Agreement between the European Union and its Member States, of the one part, and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, of the other part, to take account of the accession to the European Union of the Republic of Croatia (4) is hereby approved on behalf of the Union and its Member States.

Article 2

The President of the Council is hereby authorised to designate the person(s) empowered to deposit, on behalf of the Union and its Member States, the instrument of approval provided for in Article 3 of the Protocol.

Article 3

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

Done at Brussels, 26 June 2020.

For the Council

The President

A. METELKO-ZGOMBIĆ

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(1)  Consent of 12 December 2018 (not yet published in the Official Journal).

1

(2)  Council Decision (EU) 2016/803 of 7 May 2015 on the signing, on behalf of the Union and its Member States, and provisional application of a Protocol amending the Euro-Mediterranean Aviation Agreement between the European Union and its Member States, of the one part, and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, of the other part, to take account of the accession to the European Union of the Republic of Croatia (OJ L 132, 21.5.2016, p. 79).

2

(3)  The text of the Agreement is published in OJ L 334, 6.12.2012, p. 3.

3

(4)  The text of the Protocol was published in OJ L 132, 21.5.2016, p. 81, together with the decision on its signing.

4

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| 30.6.2020 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | L 207/3 |
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30.6.2020

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

L 207/3

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Notice concerning the date of entry into force of the Free Trade Agreement between the European Union and the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam

The Free Trade Agreement between the European Union and the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam (1), signed in Hanoi on 30 June 2019, will enter into force on 1 August 2020.

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(1)  OJ L 186, 12.6.2020, p. 3

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REGULATIONS

| 30.6.2020 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | L 207/4 |
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30.6.2020

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

L 207/4

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COUNCIL REGULATION (EU) 2020/900

of 25 June 2020

amending Regulation (EU) 2019/1838 as regards certain fishing opportunities for 2020 in the Baltic Sea and amending Regulation (EU) 2020/123 as regards certain fishing opportunities in 2020 in Union and non-Union waters

THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,

Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, and in particular Article 43(3) thereof,

Having regard to the proposal from the European Commission,

Whereas:

| (1) | Council Regulation (EU) 2019/1838 (1) fixes the fishing opportunities for certain fish stocks and groups of fish stocks applicable in the Baltic Sea for 2020. It establishes spawning closure periods for the two Baltic cod stocks with a derogation for fishing vessels of less than 12 meters length overall that fish with certain passive gears. Fishing with drifting lines is excluded from the derogation. However, it is considered that the use of drifting lines should be allowed and should thus be included in the derogation, as in the previous fishing opportunities regulations. Regulation (EU) 2019/1838 should therefore be amended accordingly. |
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(1)

Council Regulation (EU) 2019/1838 (1) fixes the fishing opportunities for certain fish stocks and groups of fish stocks applicable in the Baltic Sea for 2020. It establishes spawning closure periods for the two Baltic cod stocks with a derogation for fishing vessels of less than 12 meters length overall that fish with certain passive gears. Fishing with drifting lines is excluded from the derogation. However, it is considered that the use of drifting lines should be allowed and should thus be included in the derogation, as in the previous fishing opportunities regulations. Regulation (EU) 2019/1838 should therefore be amended accordingly.

| (2) | Council Regulation (EU) 2020/123 (2) fixes for 2020 the fishing opportunities for certain fish stocks and groups of fish stocks applicable in Union waters and, for Union vessels, in certain non-Union waters. |
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(2)

Council Regulation (EU) 2020/123 (2) fixes for 2020 the fishing opportunities for certain fish stocks and groups of fish stocks applicable in Union waters and, for Union vessels, in certain non-Union waters.

| (3) | In the report of its plenary session of 16-20 March 2020, the Scientific, Technical and Economic Committee for Fisheries (STECF) concluded that, for whiting (Merlangius merlangus) by-catches in the Celtic Sea, the 100 mm diamond mesh cod-end with a 160 mm square mesh panel is the most selective of the four different cod-end designs listed in the remedial measures set out in point (a) of Article 13(1) of Regulation (EU) 2020/123 fixing fishing opportunities for 2020. The STECF did not have any reliable estimates for cod (Gadus morhua) selectivity in the 100 mm diamond mesh cod-end with a 160 mm square mesh panel. Therefore, to ensure the recovery of the whiting stock concerned, it is appropriate to continue to allow the use of this cod-end and square mesh panel combination. In order to ensure the recovery of Celtic Sea cod, the 100 mm diamond mesh cod-end with a 160 mm square mesh panel should continue being used with the raised fishing line. |
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(3)

In the report of its plenary session of 16-20 March 2020, the Scientific, Technical and Economic Committee for Fisheries (STECF) concluded that, for whiting (Merlangius merlangus) by-catches in the Celtic Sea, the 100 mm diamond mesh cod-end with a 160 mm square mesh panel is the most selective of the four different cod-end designs listed in the remedial measures set out in point (a) of Article 13(1) of Regulation (EU) 2020/123 fixing fishing opportunities for 2020. The STECF did not have any reliable estimates for cod (Gadus morhua) selectivity in the 100 mm diamond mesh cod-end with a 160 mm square mesh panel. Therefore, to ensure the recovery of the whiting stock concerned, it is appropriate to continue to allow the use of this cod-end and square mesh panel combination. In order to ensure the recovery of Celtic Sea cod, the 100 mm diamond mesh cod-end with a 160 mm square mesh panel should continue being used with the raised fishing line.

| (4) | The fishing mortality (F) for North sea cod (Gadus morhua) has increased since 2016 and is now estimated to be above the fishing mortality reference point (Flim), i.e. a reference point which in the long term will result in an average stock size at biomass limit reference point (Blim). Fishing at levels above Flim will result in a decline in the stock to levels below Blim. Consequently, the spawning-stock biomass (SSB) has decreased since 2015 and is estimated to be below Blim. Blim is the reference point provided for in the best available scientific advice, in particular by International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES), below which there may be reduced reproductive capacity. Moreover, recruitment has remained poor since 1998, and was exceptionally poor in 2016 and 2018. |
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(4)

The fishing mortality (F) for North sea cod (Gadus morhua) has increased since 2016 and is now estimated to be above the fishing mortality reference point (Flim), i.e. a reference point which in the long term will result in an average stock size at biomass limit reference point (Blim). Fishing at levels above Flim will result in a decline in the stock to levels below Blim. Consequently, the spawning-stock biomass (SSB) has decreased since 2015 and is estimated to be below Blim. Blim is the reference point provided for in the best available scientific advice, in particular by International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES), below which there may be reduced reproductive capacity. Moreover, recruitment has remained poor since 1998, and was exceptionally poor in 2016 and 2018.

| (5) | In accordance with Article 7(2) of Regulation (EU) 2018/973 of the European Parliament and of the Council (3) establishing the North Sea multiannual plan, where scientific advice indicates that the SSB of any of the stocks referred to in Article 1(1) of that Regulation is below the Blim, further remedial measures are to be adopted to ensure rapid return of the stock to levels above the level capable of producing maximum sustainable yield (MSY). In particular, those remedial measures may include the suspension of the targeted fishery for the stock concerned and the adequate reduction of fishing opportunities for those stocks or other stocks in the fisheries having by-catches of cod, or both. |
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(5)

In accordance with Article 7(2) of Regulation (EU) 2018/973 of the European Parliament and of the Council (3) establishing the North Sea multiannual plan, where scientific advice indicates that the SSB of any of the stocks referred to in Article 1(1) of that Regulation is below the Blim, further remedial measures are to be adopted to ensure rapid return of the stock to levels above the level capable of producing maximum sustainable yield (MSY). In particular, those remedial measures may include the suspension of the targeted fishery for the stock concerned and the adequate reduction of fishing opportunities for those stocks or other stocks in the fisheries having by-catches of cod, or both.

| (6) | In the absence of a Joint Recommendation from the regional group of the North Sea Member States for longer term measures, the Commission is proposing to introduce additional technical measures functionally linked to the 2020 fishing opportunities in accordance with commitments made between the European Union and Norway, which are consistent with the joint statement of the European Commission and the Council. |
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(6)

In the absence of a Joint Recommendation from the regional group of the North Sea Member States for longer term measures, the Commission is proposing to introduce additional technical measures functionally linked to the 2020 fishing opportunities in accordance with commitments made between the European Union and Norway, which are consistent with the joint statement of the European Commission and the Council.

| (7) | In order to reduce catches of the stocks for which by-catch total allowable catch (TAC) are set, fishing opportunities for the fisheries in which fish from those stocks are caught should be set at levels that help the biomass of vulnerable stocks to recover to sustainable levels. Technical measures that are functionally linked to fishing opportunities should also be established. In its mixed fisheries overview for the North Sea, the ICES estimates that in the absence of any changes to fishing patterns and in light of illegal discarding, catches of cod are estimated to be approximately 40 000 tonnes. In order to minimise the risk of catches significantly exceeding the agreed TAC, additional measures to further limit catches are required. |
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(7)

In order to reduce catches of the stocks for which by-catch total allowable catch (TAC) are set, fishing opportunities for the fisheries in which fish from those stocks are caught should be set at levels that help the biomass of vulnerable stocks to recover to sustainable levels. Technical measures that are functionally linked to fishing opportunities should also be established. In its mixed fisheries overview for the North Sea, the ICES estimates that in the absence of any changes to fishing patterns and in light of illegal discarding, catches of cod are estimated to be approximately 40 000 tonnes. In order to minimise the risk of catches significantly exceeding the agreed TAC, additional measures to further limit catches are required.

| (8) | In accordance with the procedure provided for in the agreements or protocols on fisheries relations with Norway (4) the Union has held consultations on fishing rights with Norway. The Parties have agreed to recommend to their respective authorities the introduction of additional remedial measures to supplement the TAC already agreed in December 2019, so as to provide additional protection for both juvenile and adult cod on a temporary basis during 2020. Those measures should include seasonal closures for the protection of juveniles, restricted areas with specific access conditions and the introduction of new fishing gear-based measures. |
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(8)

In accordance with the procedure provided for in the agreements or protocols on fisheries relations with Norway (4) the Union has held consultations on fishing rights with Norway. The Parties have agreed to recommend to their respective authorities the introduction of additional remedial measures to supplement the TAC already agreed in December 2019, so as to provide additional protection for both juvenile and adult cod on a temporary basis during 2020. Those measures should include seasonal closures for the protection of juveniles, restricted areas with specific access conditions and the introduction of new fishing gear-based measures.

| (9) | On 9 March 2020, ICES issued advice for catches of Northern prawn (Pandalus borealis) in ICES divisions 3a and 4a East (Skagerrak, Kattegat, and the northern North Sea in the Norwegian Deep). On the basis of that advice and following consultations with Norway, it is appropriate to fix the Union quota for Northern prawn in ICES division 3a at 3 266 tonnes, in line with the MSY. |
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(9)

On 9 March 2020, ICES issued advice for catches of Northern prawn (Pandalus borealis) in ICES divisions 3a and 4a East (Skagerrak, Kattegat, and the northern North Sea in the Norwegian Deep). On the basis of that advice and following consultations with Norway, it is appropriate to fix the Union quota for Northern prawn in ICES division 3a at 3 266 tonnes, in line with the MSY.

| (10) | According to the ICES advice of 14 April 2020, catches of sprat (Sprattus sprattus) in Union waters of ICES subarea 4 (the North Sea) and in ICES division 3a (Skagerrak and Kattegatt) should be no more than 207 807 tonnes for the period from 1 July 2020 to 30 June 2021. The fishing opportunities for sprat should therefore be set at 169 778 tonnes in Union waters of ICES division 2a and ICES subarea 4, and at 38 029 tonnes in ICES division 3a for that period, in line with the MSY. |
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(10)

According to the ICES advice of 14 April 2020, catches of sprat (Sprattus sprattus) in Union waters of ICES subarea 4 (the North Sea) and in ICES division 3a (Skagerrak and Kattegatt) should be no more than 207 807 tonnes for the period from 1 July 2020 to 30 June 2021. The fishing opportunities for sprat should therefore be set at 169 778 tonnes in Union waters of ICES division 2a and ICES subarea 4, and at 38 029 tonnes in ICES division 3a for that period, in line with the MSY.

| (11) | The TAC for anchovy (Engraulis encrasicolus) in ICES subareas 9 and 10 and Union waters of the Fishery Committee for the Eastern Central Atlantic (CECAF) 34.1.1 for the period from 1 July 2020 to 30 June 2021 has been set at zero, pending the scientific advice for that period. ICES will issue its advice for that stock at the end of June 2020. In order to ensure that fishing activity may continue until the TAC is set on the basis of the latest scientific advice, a provisional TAC of 4 018 tonnes, based on the catches in the third quarter of 2019, should be established. That provisional TAC should be amended in line with the ICES scientific advice. |
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(11)

The TAC for anchovy (Engraulis encrasicolus) in ICES subareas 9 and 10 and Union waters of the Fishery Committee for the Eastern Central Atlantic (CECAF) 34.1.1 for the period from 1 July 2020 to 30 June 2021 has been set at zero, pending the scientific advice for that period. ICES will issue its advice for that stock at the end of June 2020. In order to ensure that fishing activity may continue until the TAC is set on the basis of the latest scientific advice, a provisional TAC of 4 018 tonnes, based on the catches in the third quarter of 2019, should be established. That provisional TAC should be amended in line with the ICES scientific advice.

| (12) | In the Agreed Record of Fisheries Consultations between Norway and the European Union for 2020 of 19 December 2019, the Parties agreed that, in addition to the agreed 50 000 tonnes of herring (Clupea harengus) that Norway is allowed to fish from its quota in Union waters of 4a and 4b and that the Union can fish from its quota in Norwegian waters south of 62° N, an additional quantity of maximum 10 000 tonnes will be granted if such an increase is called for by Norway or by the Union. That agreement should be implemented in Union law. |
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(12)

In the Agreed Record of Fisheries Consultations between Norway and the European Union for 2020 of 19 December 2019, the Parties agreed that, in addition to the agreed 50 000 tonnes of herring (Clupea harengus) that Norway is allowed to fish from its quota in Union waters of 4a and 4b and that the Union can fish from its quota in Norwegian waters south of 62° N, an additional quantity of maximum 10 000 tonnes will be granted if such an increase is called for by Norway or by the Union. That agreement should be implemented in Union law.

| (13) | At its 2020 annual meeting held from 14 to 18 February 2020, the South Pacific Regional Fisheries Management Organisation (SPRFMO) reviewed the conservation measure for jack mackerel (Trachurus murphyi), for which the fishing opportunities had not yet been determined in Regulation (EU) 2020/123. The applicable measures should be implemented in Union law. |
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(13)

At its 2020 annual meeting held from 14 to 18 February 2020, the South Pacific Regional Fisheries Management Organisation (SPRFMO) reviewed the conservation measure for jack mackerel (Trachurus murphyi), for which the fishing opportunities had not yet been determined in Regulation (EU) 2020/123. The applicable measures should be implemented in Union law.

| (14) | At its annual meeting held from 23 to 27 September 2019, the Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Organisation (NAFO), decided to close the fishery for splendid alfonsino (Beryx splendens) in NAFO subarea 6 due to a possible depletion of the stock. That measure should therefore be implemented in Union law and the list of prohibited species should therefore be amended accordingly. |
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(14)

At its annual meeting held from 23 to 27 September 2019, the Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Organisation (NAFO), decided to close the fishery for splendid alfonsino (Beryx splendens) in NAFO subarea 6 due to a possible depletion of the stock. That measure should therefore be implemented in Union law and the list of prohibited species should therefore be amended accordingly.

| (15) | The International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) Recommendation 16-05, which decreased the TAC for Mediterranean swordfish (Xiphias gladius) in 2020, has already been implemented in Union law. However, in January 2020, the ICCAT Secretariat issued guidelines for the calculation of the TAC for Mediterranean swordfish. As a result, the Union quota needs to be updated accordingly. |
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(15)

The International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) Recommendation 16-05, which decreased the TAC for Mediterranean swordfish (Xiphias gladius) in 2020, has already been implemented in Union law. However, in January 2020, the ICCAT Secretariat issued guidelines for the calculation of the TAC for Mediterranean swordfish. As a result, the Union quota needs to be updated accordingly.

| (16) | At its 2019 annual meeting held from 17 to 21 June 2019, the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC) adopted new catch limits for yellowfin tuna (Thunnus albacares) that do not affect the Union catch limits in the framework of IOTC. However, it reduced possibilities for using fish aggregating devices (FADs), supply vessels as well as instrumented buoys. Therefore, further changes should be made to Regulation (EU) 2020/123 to ensure that the implementing rules properly reflect the decisions taken by the Contracting Parties to the IOTC. |
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(16)

At its 2019 annual meeting held from 17 to 21 June 2019, the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC) adopted new catch limits for yellowfin tuna (Thunnus albacares) that do not affect the Union catch limits in the framework of IOTC. However, it reduced possibilities for using fish aggregating devices (FADs), supply vessels as well as instrumented buoys. Therefore, further changes should be made to Regulation (EU) 2020/123 to ensure that the implementing rules properly reflect the decisions taken by the Contracting Parties to the IOTC.

| (17) | In July 2019, the 6th Meeting of the Parties of the Southern Indian Ocean Fisheries Agreement (SIOFA) decided on bottom fishing measures and effort limitations in the Agreement area. Those measures were implemented in Union law by Regulation (EU) 2020/123. However, further changes should be made to ensure that the implementing rules properly reflect the decisions taken by SIOFA regarding limits to bottom fishing. |
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(17)

In July 2019, the 6th Meeting of the Parties of the Southern Indian Ocean Fisheries Agreement (SIOFA) decided on bottom fishing measures and effort limitations in the Agreement area. Those measures were implemented in Union law by Regulation (EU) 2020/123. However, further changes should be made to ensure that the implementing rules properly reflect the decisions taken by SIOFA regarding limits to bottom fishing.

| (18) | Fishing licenses are granted by the Commission to vessels flying the Venezuelan flag in order to allow them to fish for snapper in European waters off the coast of French Guiana. Regulation (EU) 2020/123 provides for granting of 45 licenses. In order to issue those authorisations, proof is to be provided that a valid contract has been concluded between the shipowner and a processing company located in the Department of French Guiana. During the authorisation process in between two years, continuity of fishing operations should be allowed under certain conditions. |
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(18)

Fishing licenses are granted by the Commission to vessels flying the Venezuelan flag in order to allow them to fish for snapper in European waters off the coast of French Guiana. Regulation (EU) 2020/123 provides for granting of 45 licenses. In order to issue those authorisations, proof is to be provided that a valid contract has been concluded between the shipowner and a processing company located in the Department of French Guiana. During the authorisation process in between two years, continuity of fishing operations should be allowed under certain conditions.

| (19) | Vessels fishing for sandeels using certain gears in ICES subdivisions 2a, 3a and 4 should be subject to prohibition periods from 1 August to 31 December 2020 and from 1 January to 31 March 2021. |
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(19)

Vessels fishing for sandeels using certain gears in ICES subdivisions 2a, 3a and 4 should be subject to prohibition periods from 1 August to 31 December 2020 and from 1 January to 31 March 2021.

| (20) | Regulation (EU) 2020/123 should therefore be amended accordingly. |
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(20)

Regulation (EU) 2020/123 should therefore be amended accordingly.

| (21) | The catch limits provided for in Regulation (EU) 2019/1838 and Regulation (EU) 2020/123 apply from 1 January 2020. The provisions introduced by this Regulation concerning catch limits should therefore enter into force as soon as possible. With respect to changes in the TAC levels, the additional derogation in the Baltic Sea and the continued permission of the use of a gear in the Celtic Sea, the provisions should apply from 1 January 2020. Since the fishing opportunities concerned have not yet been exhausted or are increased and more permissive rules are introduced by this Regulation, the principles of legal certainty and protection of legitimate expectations are not affected by the retroactive application of this Regulation. |
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(21)

The catch limits provided for in Regulation (EU) 2019/1838 and Regulation (EU) 2020/123 apply from 1 January 2020. The provisions introduced by this Regulation concerning catch limits should therefore enter into force as soon as possible. With respect to changes in the TAC levels, the additional derogation in the Baltic Sea and the continued permission of the use of a gear in the Celtic Sea, the provisions should apply from 1 January 2020. Since the fishing opportunities concerned have not yet been exhausted or are increased and more permissive rules are introduced by this Regulation, the principles of legal certainty and protection of legitimate expectations are not affected by the retroactive application of this Regulation.

| (22) | The United Kingdom has been consulted in accordance with Article 130(1) of the Agreement on the withdrawal of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland from the European Union and the European Atomic Energy Community (5), |
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(22)

The United Kingdom has been consulted in accordance with Article 130(1) of the Agreement on the withdrawal of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland from the European Union and the European Atomic Energy Community (5),

HAS ADOPTED THIS REGULATION:

Article 1

Amendment of Regulation (EU) 2019/1838

The Annex to Regulation (EU) 2019/1838 is amended in accordance with Annex I to this Regulation.

Article 2

Amendment of Regulation (EU) 2020/123

Regulation (EU) 2020/123 is amended as follows:

| (1) | In Article 3, the following points are added:






  ‘(j) | “instrumented buoy” means a buoy clearly marked with a unique reference number allowing identification of its owner and equipped with a satellite tracking system to monitor its position; |
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(1)

In Article 3, the following points are added:

‘(j)

“instrumented buoy” means a buoy clearly marked with a unique reference number allowing identification of its owner and equipped with a satellite tracking system to monitor its position;

| (k) | “operational buoy” means any instrumented buoy, previously activated, switched on and deployed at sea on a drifting FAD or log, which transmits positions and any other available information such as echo-sounder estimates.’. |
| --- | --- |

(k)

“operational buoy” means any instrumented buoy, previously activated, switched on and deployed at sea on a drifting FAD or log, which transmits positions and any other available information such as echo-sounder estimates.’.

| (2) | The following Article is inserted:

  ‘Article 12a
  Closed fishing seasons for sandeels
  Commercial fishing for sandeels with demersal trawl, seine or similar towed gears with a mesh size of less than 16 mm shall be prohibited in ICES divisions 2a, 3a and ICES subarea 4 from 1 August to 31 December 2020 and from 1 January to 31 March 2021.’. |
| --- | --- |

(2)

The following Article is inserted:

‘Article 12a

Closed fishing seasons for sandeels

Commercial fishing for sandeels with demersal trawl, seine or similar towed gears with a mesh size of less than 16 mm shall be prohibited in ICES divisions 2a, 3a and ICES subarea 4 from 1 August to 31 December 2020 and from 1 January to 31 March 2021.’.

| (3) | The fourth indent of point (a) of Article 13(1) is replaced by the following:






  ‘— | 100 mm with 160 mm square-mesh panel;’. |
| --- | --- | --- |

(3)

The fourth indent of point (a) of Article 13(1) is replaced by the following:

‘—

100 mm with 160 mm square-mesh panel;’.

| (4) | Article 14 is replaced by the following:

  ‘Article 14
  Remedial measures for cod in the North Sea

  1.   The closed areas to fishing, except with pelagic gear (purse seines and trawls), and the periods during which the closures apply are set out in Annex IV.


  2.   Vessels fishing with bottom trawls and seines with minimum mesh size of at least 70 mm in 4a and 4b or at least 90 mm in 3a, and longlines (6) shall be prohibited from fishing in Union waters of ICES division 4a, North of latitude 58° 30′ 00′′ N and South of latitude 61° 30′ 00′′ N and in Union waters of ICES divisions 3a.20 (Skagerrak), 4a and 4b, North of latitude 57° 00′ 00′′ N and East of longitude 5° 00′ 00′′ E.


  3.   By way of derogation from paragraph 2, fishing vessels referred to in paragraph 2 may fish in the areas referred to in paragraph 1 provided that they fulfil at least one of the following criteria:






  (a) | the percentage of cod catches does not exceed 5 % of the total catches per fishing trip; vessels with cod catches that have not exceeded 5 % of their total catches in the period 2017-2019 are presumed to comply with this criterion provided that they continue to use the same gear which they used in that period; this presumption may be rebutted; |
| --- | --- | --- |

(4)

Article 14 is replaced by the following:

‘Article 14

Remedial measures for cod in the North Sea

1.   The closed areas to fishing, except with pelagic gear (purse seines and trawls), and the periods during which the closures apply are set out in Annex IV.

2.   Vessels fishing with bottom trawls and seines with minimum mesh size of at least 70 mm in 4a and 4b or at least 90 mm in 3a, and longlines (6) shall be prohibited from fishing in Union waters of ICES division 4a, North of latitude 58° 30′ 00′′ N and South of latitude 61° 30′ 00′′ N and in Union waters of ICES divisions 3a.20 (Skagerrak), 4a and 4b, North of latitude 57° 00′ 00′′ N and East of longitude 5° 00′ 00′′ E.

3.   By way of derogation from paragraph 2, fishing vessels referred to in paragraph 2 may fish in the areas referred to in paragraph 1 provided that they fulfil at least one of the following criteria:

(a)

the percentage of cod catches does not exceed 5 % of the total catches per fishing trip; vessels with cod catches that have not exceeded 5 % of their total catches in the period 2017-2019 are presumed to comply with this criterion provided that they continue to use the same gear which they used in that period; this presumption may be rebutted;

| (b) | a regulated and highly selective bottom trawl or seine is used, which results, according to a scientific study, in at least a 30 % reduction of cod catches compared to vessels fishing with the baseline mesh size for towed gears as specified in point 1.1 of Part B of Annex V of Regulation (EU) 2019/1241; such studies may be evaluated by STECF; in the case of a negative evaluation by STECF, these gears shall no longer be considered as valid for use in the areas defined in paragraph 2 of this Article; |
| --- | --- |

(b)

a regulated and highly selective bottom trawl or seine is used, which results, according to a scientific study, in at least a 30 % reduction of cod catches compared to vessels fishing with the baseline mesh size for towed gears as specified in point 1.1 of Part B of Annex V of Regulation (EU) 2019/1241; such studies may be evaluated by STECF; in the case of a negative evaluation by STECF, these gears shall no longer be considered as valid for use in the areas defined in paragraph 2 of this Article;

| (c) | for vessels operating with bottom trawls and seines with mesh sizes equal to or larger than 100 mm (TR1), the following highly selective gears are used:






  — | belly trawls with a minimum belly mesh size of 600 mm; |
| --- | --- | --- |

(c)

for vessels operating with bottom trawls and seines with mesh sizes equal to or larger than 100 mm (TR1), the following highly selective gears are used:

—

belly trawls with a minimum belly mesh size of 600 mm;

| — | raised fishing line (0,6 m); |
| --- | --- |

—

raised fishing line (0,6 m);

| — | horizontal separating panel with large mesh escape panel; |
| --- | --- |

—

horizontal separating panel with large mesh escape panel;

| (d) | for vessels operating with bottom trawls and seines with mesh sizes equal to or larger than 70 mm in 4a and 90 mm in 3a and less than 100 mm (TR2), the following highly selective gears are used:






  — | horizontal sorting grid with maximum 50 mm bar spacing separating flatfish and roundfish, with an unblocked fish outlet for roundfish; |
| --- | --- | --- |

(d)

for vessels operating with bottom trawls and seines with mesh sizes equal to or larger than 70 mm in 4a and 90 mm in 3a and less than 100 mm (TR2), the following highly selective gears are used:

—

horizontal sorting grid with maximum 50 mm bar spacing separating flatfish and roundfish, with an unblocked fish outlet for roundfish;

| — | seltra panel with 300 mm square-mesh size; |
| --- | --- |

—

seltra panel with 300 mm square-mesh size;

| — | sorting grid with maximum 35 mm bar spacing, with an unblocked fish outlet; |
| --- | --- |

—

sorting grid with maximum 35 mm bar spacing, with an unblocked fish outlet;

| (e) | vessels are subject to a national cod avoidance plan to sustain cod catches in line with the fishing mortality corresponding to the fishing opportunities set, based on scientific advice levels, through spatial or technical measures, or a combination thereof; such plans should be assessed no later than two months following implementation, by STECF in the case of Member States, and by their relevant national scientific body for third countries and where deemed necessary, further revised if such assessments consider that the objective of the plan will not be met. |
| --- | --- |

(e)

vessels are subject to a national cod avoidance plan to sustain cod catches in line with the fishing mortality corresponding to the fishing opportunities set, based on scientific advice levels, through spatial or technical measures, or a combination thereof; such plans should be assessed no later than two months following implementation, by STECF in the case of Member States, and by their relevant national scientific body for third countries and where deemed necessary, further revised if such assessments consider that the objective of the plan will not be met.

4.   Member States shall enhance monitoring, control and surveillance of vessels referred to in paragraph 2 to control compliance with the conditions specified in points (a) to (e) of paragraph 3.

(6)  Gear codes: OTB, OTT, OT, TBN, TBS, TB, TX, PTB, SDN, SSC, SX, LL, LLS.’."

6

| (5) | In Article 16(1) the following point is inserted:






  ‘(o) | splendid alfonsino (Beryx splendens) in NAFO subarea 6.’. |
| --- | --- | --- |

(5)

In Article 16(1) the following point is inserted:

‘(o)

splendid alfonsino (Beryx splendens) in NAFO subarea 6.’.

Beryx splendens

| (6) | Article 27 is replaced by the following:

  ‘Article 27
  Drifting FADs and supply vessels

  1.   Drifting FADs shall be equipped with instrumented buoys. The use of any other buoys, such as radio buoys is prohibited.


  2.   A purse seiner shall not follow more than 300 operational buoys at any one time.


  3.   The maximum number of instrumented buoys that may be acquired annually for each purse seine vessel is 500. No purse seine vessel shall have more than 500 instrumented buoys (buoy in stock and operational buoy) at any time.


  4.   The maximum number of supply vessels shall be two supply vessels in support of not less than five purse seiners, all flying the flag of a Member State. This provision shall not apply to Member States using only one supply vessel.


  5.   A single purse seiner shall not be supported by more than one single supply vessel flying the flag of a Member State at any time.


  6.   The Union shall not register new or additional supply vessels in the IOTC record of authorised vessels.’. |
| --- | --- |

(6)

Article 27 is replaced by the following:

‘Article 27

Drifting FADs and supply vessels

1.   Drifting FADs shall be equipped with instrumented buoys. The use of any other buoys, such as radio buoys is prohibited.

2.   A purse seiner shall not follow more than 300 operational buoys at any one time.

3.   The maximum number of instrumented buoys that may be acquired annually for each purse seine vessel is 500. No purse seine vessel shall have more than 500 instrumented buoys (buoy in stock and operational buoy) at any time.

4.   The maximum number of supply vessels shall be two supply vessels in support of not less than five purse seiners, all flying the flag of a Member State. This provision shall not apply to Member States using only one supply vessel.

5.   A single purse seiner shall not be supported by more than one single supply vessel flying the flag of a Member State at any time.

6.   The Union shall not register new or additional supply vessels in the IOTC record of authorised vessels.’.

| (7) | Article 46 is replaced by the following:

  ‘Article 46
  Limits to bottom fishing
  Member States shall ensure that vessels flying their flag that are fishing in the SIOFA Agreement Area:






  (a) | limit their annual bottom fishing effort and catch to their average annual level for those years where their vessels were active in the SIOFA Agreement Area, over a representative period for which data declared to the Commission exists; |
| --- | --- | --- |

(7)

Article 46 is replaced by the following:

‘Article 46

Limits to bottom fishing

Member States shall ensure that vessels flying their flag that are fishing in the SIOFA Agreement Area:

(a)

limit their annual bottom fishing effort and catch to their average annual level for those years where their vessels were active in the SIOFA Agreement Area, over a representative period for which data declared to the Commission exists;

| (b) | do not expand the spatial distribution of bottom fishing effort, excluding line and trap methods, beyond areas fished in recent years; |
| --- | --- |

(b)

do not expand the spatial distribution of bottom fishing effort, excluding line and trap methods, beyond areas fished in recent years;

| (c) | are not authorised to fish in the interim protected areas of Atlantis Bank, Coral, Fools Flat, Middle of What, Walter’s Shoal, as defined in Annex IK, except with line and traps methods and on condition of having a scientific observer on board at all times while fishing in those areas.’. |
| --- | --- |

(c)

are not authorised to fish in the interim protected areas of Atlantis Bank, Coral, Fools Flat, Middle of What, Walter’s Shoal, as defined in Annex IK, except with line and traps methods and on condition of having a scientific observer on board at all times while fishing in those areas.’.

| (8) | Article 51 is replaced by the following:

  ‘Article 51

  Closed fishing seasons
  Third-country vessels which are authorised to fish for sandeels and associated by-catches in Union waters of ICES subarea 4 shall not fish for sandeels in that subarea with demersal trawl, seine or similar towed gear with a mesh size of less than 16 mm in the following periods:






  (a) | from 1 August to 31 December 2020; |
| --- | --- | --- |

(8)

Article 51 is replaced by the following:

‘Article 51

Closed fishing seasons

Third-country vessels which are authorised to fish for sandeels and associated by-catches in Union waters of ICES subarea 4 shall not fish for sandeels in that subarea with demersal trawl, seine or similar towed gear with a mesh size of less than 16 mm in the following periods:

(a)

from 1 August to 31 December 2020;

| (b) | from 1 January to 31 March 2021.’. |
| --- | --- |

(b)

from 1 January to 31 March 2021.’.

| (9) | Annexes IA, ID, IH, and V are amended in accordance with Annex II to this Regulation. |
| --- | --- |

(9)

Annexes IA, ID, IH, and V are amended in accordance with Annex II to this Regulation.

Article 3

This Regulation shall enter into force on the day following that of its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union.

Article 1 and point (3) of Article 2 and point (9) of Article 2 in conjunction with points 1(a) and (e) and points 2 and 3 of Annex II shall apply from 1 January 2020.

Points (1), (2) and (5) to (8) of Article 2 and point (9) of Article 2 in conjunction with points 1(b), (c) and (d) and point 4 of Annex II shall apply from 1 July 2020.

Point (4) of Article 2 shall apply from 15 August 2020.

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

Done at Brussels, 25 June 2020.

For the Council

The President

A. METELKO-ZGOMBIĆ

---

(1)  Council Regulation (EU) 2019/1838 of 30 October 2019 fixing for 2020 the fishing opportunities for certain fish stocks and groups of fish stocks applicable in the Baltic Sea and amending Regulation (EU) 2019/124 as regards certain fishing opportunities in other waters (OJ L 281, 31.10.2019, p. 1).

1

(2)  Council Regulation (EU) 2020/123 of 27 January 2020 fixing for 2020 the fishing opportunities for certain fish stocks and groups of fish stocks, applicable in Union waters and, for Union fishing vessels, in certain non-Union waters (OJ L 25, 30.1.2020, p. 1).

2

(3)  Regulation (EU) 2018/973 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 4 July 2018 establishing a multiannual plan for demersal stocks in the North Sea and the fisheries exploiting those stocks, specifying details of the implementation of the landing obligation in the North Sea and repealing Council Regulations (EC) No 676/2007 and (EC) No 1342/2008 (OJ L 179, 16.7.2018, p. 1).

3

(4)  Agreement on fisheries between the European Economic Community and the Kingdom of Norway (OJ L 226, 29.8.1980, p. 48).

4

(5)  OJ L 29, 31.1.2020, p. 7.

5

---

ANNEX I

The Annex to Regulation (EU) 2019/1838 is amended as follows:

| (1) | In the fishing opportunities table for cod in ICES subdivisions 25-32, footnote 2 is replaced by the following:






  ‘(2) | In subdivisions 25 and 26 it shall be prohibited to fish this quota from 1 May to 31 August.
  By way of derogation from the first paragraph, fishing operations conducted for the exclusive purpose of scientific investigations may be undertaken provided that those investigations are carried out in full compliance with the conditions set out in Article 25 of Regulation (EU) 2019/1241.
  By way of derogation from the first paragraph, that closure period shall not apply to Union fishing vessels of less than 12 metres in length overall that fish with gillnets, entangling nets or trammel nets, with bottom set lines, longlines, handlines and jigging equipment or other passive gear in areas where the water depth is less than 20 meters according to the coordinates on the official sea chart issued by the competent national authorities. Masters of those fishing vessels shall ensure that their fishing activity can be monitored at any time by the control authorities of the Member State.’; |
| --- | --- | --- |

(1)

In the fishing opportunities table for cod in ICES subdivisions 25-32, footnote 2 is replaced by the following:

‘(2)

In subdivisions 25 and 26 it shall be prohibited to fish this quota from 1 May to 31 August.

By way of derogation from the first paragraph, fishing operations conducted for the exclusive purpose of scientific investigations may be undertaken provided that those investigations are carried out in full compliance with the conditions set out in Article 25 of Regulation (EU) 2019/1241.

By way of derogation from the first paragraph, that closure period shall not apply to Union fishing vessels of less than 12 metres in length overall that fish with gillnets, entangling nets or trammel nets, with bottom set lines, longlines, handlines and jigging equipment or other passive gear in areas where the water depth is less than 20 meters according to the coordinates on the official sea chart issued by the competent national authorities. Masters of those fishing vessels shall ensure that their fishing activity can be monitored at any time by the control authorities of the Member State.’;

| (2) | In the fishing opportunities table for cod in ICES subdivisions 22-24, footnotes 1 and 2 are replaced by the following:






  ‘(1) | In subdivision 24 exclusively for by-catches. No directed fisheries are permitted under this quota in subdivision 24.
  By way of derogation from the first paragraph, fishing operations conducted for the exclusive purpose of scientific investigations may be directed to cod provided that those investigations are carried out in full compliance with the conditions set out in Article 25 of Regulation (EU) 2019/1241.
  By way of derogation from the first paragraph, fishing this quota in subdivision 24 shall be allowed for Union fishing vessels of less than 12 meters length overall fishing with gillnets, entangling nets or trammel nets, with bottom set lines, longlines, handlines and jigging equipment or other passive gear in areas up to six nautical miles measured from the baselines where the water depth is less than 20 meters according to the coordinates on the official sea chart issued by the competent national authorities. Masters of those fishing vessels shall ensure that their fishing activity can be monitored at any time by the control authorities of the Member State. |
| --- | --- | --- |

(2)

In the fishing opportunities table for cod in ICES subdivisions 22-24, footnotes 1 and 2 are replaced by the following:

‘(1)

In subdivision 24 exclusively for by-catches. No directed fisheries are permitted under this quota in subdivision 24.

By way of derogation from the first paragraph, fishing operations conducted for the exclusive purpose of scientific investigations may be directed to cod provided that those investigations are carried out in full compliance with the conditions set out in Article 25 of Regulation (EU) 2019/1241.

By way of derogation from the first paragraph, fishing this quota in subdivision 24 shall be allowed for Union fishing vessels of less than 12 meters length overall fishing with gillnets, entangling nets or trammel nets, with bottom set lines, longlines, handlines and jigging equipment or other passive gear in areas up to six nautical miles measured from the baselines where the water depth is less than 20 meters according to the coordinates on the official sea chart issued by the competent national authorities. Masters of those fishing vessels shall ensure that their fishing activity can be monitored at any time by the control authorities of the Member State.

| (2) | It shall be prohibited to fish this quota in subdivisions 22 and 23 from 1 February to 31 March and in subdivision 24 from 1 June to 31 July.
  By way of derogation from the first paragraph, fishing operations conducted for the exclusive purpose of scientific investigations may be undertaken provided that those investigations are carried out in full compliance with the conditions set out in Article 25 of Regulation (EU) 2019/1241.
  By way of derogation from the first paragraph, that closure period shall not apply to Union fishing vessels of less than 12 metres in length overall that fish with gillnets, entangling nets or trammel nets, with bottom set lines, longlines, handlines and jigging equipment or other passive gear in areas where the water depth is less than 20 meters according to the coordinates on the official sea chart issued by the competent national authorities. Masters of those fishing vessels shall ensure that their fishing activity can be monitored at any time by the control authorities of the Member State.’. |
| --- | --- |

(2)

It shall be prohibited to fish this quota in subdivisions 22 and 23 from 1 February to 31 March and in subdivision 24 from 1 June to 31 July.

By way of derogation from the first paragraph, fishing operations conducted for the exclusive purpose of scientific investigations may be undertaken provided that those investigations are carried out in full compliance with the conditions set out in Article 25 of Regulation (EU) 2019/1241.

By way of derogation from the first paragraph, that closure period shall not apply to Union fishing vessels of less than 12 metres in length overall that fish with gillnets, entangling nets or trammel nets, with bottom set lines, longlines, handlines and jigging equipment or other passive gear in areas where the water depth is less than 20 meters according to the coordinates on the official sea chart issued by the competent national authorities. Masters of those fishing vessels shall ensure that their fishing activity can be monitored at any time by the control authorities of the Member State.’.

---

ANNEX II

Annexes IA, ID, IH and V to Regulation (EU) 2020/123 are amended as follows:

| (1) | Annex IA is amended as follows:






  (a) | the fishing opportunities table for herring in Union and Norwegian waters of 4 north of 53° 30′ N, is replaced by the following:









  ‘Species: | Herring (1) | Zone: | Union and Norwegian waters of 4 north of 53° 30′ N |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Clupea harengus | (HER/4AB.) |
| Denmark | 59 468 | | Analytical TAC
  Article 7(2) of this Regulation applies |
| Germany | 39 404 | |
| France | 20 670 | |
| The Netherlands | 51 717 | |
| Sweden | 3 913 | |
| United Kingdom | 55 583 | |
| Union | 230 755 | |
| Faroe Islands | 250 | |
| Norway | 111 652 | (2) |
| TAC | 385 008 | |

(1)

Annex IA is amended as follows:

(a)

the fishing opportunities table for herring in Union and Norwegian waters of 4 north of 53° 30′ N, is replaced by the following:

‘Species:

Herring (1)

Zone:

Union and Norwegian waters of 4 north of 53° 30′ N

Clupea harengus

(HER/4AB.)

Denmark

59 468

Analytical TAC

Article 7(2) of this Regulation applies

Germany

39 404

France

20 670

The Netherlands

51 717

Sweden

3 913

United Kingdom

55 583

Union

230 755

Faroe Islands

250

Norway

111 652

(2)

TAC

385 008

Special condition: within the limits of the abovementioned quotas, no more than the quantities given below may be taken by the Union in Norwegian waters south of 62° N. An additional quantity of maximum 10 000 tonnes will be granted if such an increase is called for by the European Union.

Norwegian waters south of 62° N (HER/*04N-)

50 000’

| (b) | the fishing opportunities table for anchovy in ICES subareas 9 and 10; Union waters of CECAF 34.1.1 is replaced by the following:









  ‘Species: | Anchovy | Zone: | 9 and 10; Union waters of CECAF 34.1.1 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Engraulis encrasicolus | (ANE/9/3411) |
| Spain | 1 922 | (3) | Precautionary TAC |
| Portugal | 1 922 | (3) |
| Union | 4 018 | (3) |
| TAC | 4 018 | (3) |

(b)

the fishing opportunities table for anchovy in ICES subareas 9 and 10; Union waters of CECAF 34.1.1 is replaced by the following:

‘Species:

Anchovy

Zone:

9 and 10; Union waters of CECAF 34.1.1

Engraulis encrasicolus

(ANE/9/3411)

Spain

1 922

(3)

Precautionary TAC

Portugal

1 922

(3)

Union

4 018

(3)

TAC

4 018

(3)

| (c) | the fishing opportunities table for Northern prawn in ICES division 3a is replaced by the following:









  ‘Species: | Northern prawn | Zone: | 3a |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Pandalus borealis | (PRA/03A.) |
| Denmark | 2 123 | | Analytical TAC’ |
| Sweden | 1 143 | |
| Union | 3 266 | |
| TAC | 6 115 | |

(c)

the fishing opportunities table for Northern prawn in ICES division 3a is replaced by the following:

‘Species:

Northern prawn

Zone:

3a

Pandalus borealis

(PRA/03A.)

Denmark

2 123

Analytical TAC’

Sweden

1 143

Union

3 266

TAC

6 115

| (d) | the following fishing opportunities table for sprat and associated by-catches in Union waters of ICES division 3a is inserted:









  ‘Species: | Sprat and associated by-catches | Zone: | 3a |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Sprattus sprattus | (SPR/03A.2) |
| Denmark | 25 482 | (4)
   (5) | Analytical TAC |
| Germany | 53 | (4)
   (5) |
| Sweden | 9 642 | (4)
   (5) |
| Union | 35 177 | (4)
   (5) |
| TAC | 38 029 | (5) |

(d)

the following fishing opportunities table for sprat and associated by-catches in Union waters of ICES division 3a is inserted:

‘Species:

Sprat and associated by-catches

Zone:

3a

Sprattus sprattus

(SPR/03A.2)

Denmark

25 482

(4)
   (5)

Analytical TAC

Germany

53

(4)
   (5)

Sweden

9 642

(4)
   (5)

Union

35 177

(4)
   (5)

TAC

38 029

(5)

| (e) | the fishing opportunities table for sprat and associated by-catches in Union waters of ICES division 2a and ICES subarea 4 is replaced by the following:









  ‘Species: | Sprat and associated by-catches | Zone: | Union waters of 2a and 4 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Sprattus sprattus | (SPR/2AC4-C) |
| Belgium | 1 821 | (6)
   (7) | Analytical TAC |
| Denmark | 144 154 | (6)
   (7) | |
| Germany | 1 821 | (6)
   (7) | |
| France | 1 821 | (6)
   (7) | |
| The Netherlands | 1 821 | (6)
   (7) | |
| Sweden | 1 330 | (6)
   (7)
   (8) | |
| United Kingdom | 6 010 | (6)
   (7) | |
| Union | 158 778 | (6)
   (7) | |
| Norway | 10 000 | (6) | |
| Faroe Islands | 1 000 | (6)
   (9) | |
| TAC | 169 778 | (6) | |

(e)

the fishing opportunities table for sprat and associated by-catches in Union waters of ICES division 2a and ICES subarea 4 is replaced by the following:

‘Species:

Sprat and associated by-catches

Zone:

Union waters of 2a and 4

Sprattus sprattus

(SPR/2AC4-C)

Belgium

1 821

(6)
   (7)

Analytical TAC

Denmark

144 154

(6)
   (7)

Germany

1 821

(6)
   (7)

France

1 821

(6)
   (7)

The Netherlands

1 821

(6)
   (7)

Sweden

1 330

(6)
   (7)
   (8)

United Kingdom

6 010

(6)
   (7)

Union

158 778

(6)
   (7)

Norway

10 000

(6)

Faroe Islands

1 000

(6)
   (9)

TAC

169 778

(6)

| (2) | In Annex ID, the fishing opportunities table for swordfish in the Mediterranean is replaced by the following:









  ‘Species | Swordfish

  Xiphias gladius | Zone: | Mediterranean Sea
  (SWO/MED) |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Croatia | 14,60 | (10) | Analytical TAC
  Article 3 of Regulation (EC) No 847/96 shall not apply.
  Article 4 of Regulation (EC) No 847/96 shall not apply. |
| Cyprus | 53,85 | (10) |
| Spain | 1 663,34 | (10) |
| France | 115,93 | (10) |
| Greece | 1 101,10 | (10) |
| Italy | 3 409,98 | (10) |
| Malta | 404,55 | (10) |
| Union | 6 763,35 | (10) |
| TAC | 9 583,07 | |

(2)

In Annex ID, the fishing opportunities table for swordfish in the Mediterranean is replaced by the following:

‘Species

Swordfish

Xiphias gladius

Zone:

Mediterranean Sea

(SWO/MED)

Croatia

14,60

(10)

Analytical TAC

Article 3 of Regulation (EC) No 847/96 shall not apply.

Article 4 of Regulation (EC) No 847/96 shall not apply.

Cyprus

53,85

(10)

Spain

1 663,34

(10)

France

115,93

(10)

Greece

1 101,10

(10)

Italy

3 409,98

(10)

Malta

404,55

(10)

Union

6 763,35

(10)

TAC

9 583,07

| (3) | In Annex IH, the fishing opportunities table for jack mackerel in the SPRFMO convention area is replaced by the following:









  ‘Species: | Jack mackerel

  Trachurus murphyi | Zone: | SPRFMO Convention Area
  (CJM/SPRFMO) |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Germany | 10 446,80 | | Analytical TAC
  Article 3 of Regulation (EC) No 847/96 shall not apply
  Article 4 of Regulation (EC) No 847/96 shall not apply |
| The Netherlands | 11 323,26 | |
| Lithuania | 7 269,16 | |
| Poland | 12 498,78 | |
| Union | 41 538 | |
| TAC | Not relevant’ | |

(3)

In Annex IH, the fishing opportunities table for jack mackerel in the SPRFMO convention area is replaced by the following:

‘Species:

Jack mackerel

Trachurus murphyi

Zone:

SPRFMO Convention Area

(CJM/SPRFMO)

Germany

10 446,80

Analytical TAC

Article 3 of Regulation (EC) No 847/96 shall not apply

Article 4 of Regulation (EC) No 847/96 shall not apply

The Netherlands

11 323,26

Lithuania

7 269,16

Poland

12 498,78

Union

41 538

TAC

Not relevant’

| (4) | In Annex V, in the table part B on ‘Maximum number of fishing authorisations for third-country vessels fishing in union waters’, footnote 1 is replaced by the following:






  ‘(1) | To issue those fishing authorisations, proof must be produced that a valid contract exists between the vessel owner applying for the fishing authorisation and a processing undertaking situated in the Department of French Guiana, and that it includes an obligation to land at least 75 % of all snapper catches from the vessel concerned in that department so that they may be processed in that undertaking’s plant. Such a contract must be endorsed by the French authorities, which shall ensure that it is consistent both with the actual capacity of the contracting processing undertaking and with the objectives for the development of the Guianese economy. A copy of the duly endorsed contract shall be appended to the fishing authorisation application. Where such an endorsement is refused, the French authorities shall give notification of this refusal and state their reasons for it to the party concerned and to the Commission. A fishing vessel flying the flag of Venezuela authorised to carry out fishing activities in 2020 may continue fishing until 1 April 2021 pending the renewal of its fishing authorisation and provided that:






  — | the vessel operator has signed a new supply contract for 2021, |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

(4)

In Annex V, in the table part B on ‘Maximum number of fishing authorisations for third-country vessels fishing in union waters’, footnote 1 is replaced by the following:

‘(1)

To issue those fishing authorisations, proof must be produced that a valid contract exists between the vessel owner applying for the fishing authorisation and a processing undertaking situated in the Department of French Guiana, and that it includes an obligation to land at least 75 % of all snapper catches from the vessel concerned in that department so that they may be processed in that undertaking’s plant. Such a contract must be endorsed by the French authorities, which shall ensure that it is consistent both with the actual capacity of the contracting processing undertaking and with the objectives for the development of the Guianese economy. A copy of the duly endorsed contract shall be appended to the fishing authorisation application. Where such an endorsement is refused, the French authorities shall give notification of this refusal and state their reasons for it to the party concerned and to the Commission. A fishing vessel flying the flag of Venezuela authorised to carry out fishing activities in 2020 may continue fishing until 1 April 2021 pending the renewal of its fishing authorisation and provided that:

—

the vessel operator has signed a new supply contract for 2021,

| — | the authorisation renewal procedures are underway for this vessel, |
| --- | --- |

—

the authorisation renewal procedures are underway for this vessel,

| — | the vessel operator has complied with its reporting and contractual landing obligations in 2020. |
| --- | --- |

—

the vessel operator has complied with its reporting and contractual landing obligations in 2020.

This extension expires on the date of entry into force of the Commission’s decision issuing a fishing authorisation for 2021 for the vessel, or upon notification from the Commission that the authorisation is refused.’.

---

(1)  Catches of herring taken in fisheries using nets with mesh sizes equal to or larger than 32 mm.

(2)  Catches taken within this quota are to be deducted from Norway’s share of the TAC. Within the limit of this quota, no more than the quantity given below may be taken in Union waters of 4a and 4b (HER/*4AB-C). An additional quantity of maximum 10 000 tonnes will be granted if such an increase is called for by Norway.

50 000

(3)  The quota may only be fished from 1 July 2020 to 30 September 2020.’

(4)  Up to 5 % of the quota may consist of by-catches of whiting and haddock (OTH/*03A.2). By-catches of whiting and haddock counted against the quota pursuant to this provision and by-catches of species counted against the quota pursuant to Article 15(8) of Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013 shall, together, not exceed 9 % of the quota.

(5)  This quota may only be fished from 1 July 2020 to 30 June 2021.’

(6)  The quota may only be fished from 1 July 2020 to 30 June 2021.

(7)  Up to 2 % of the quota may consist of by-catches of whiting (OTH/*2AC4C). By-catches of whiting counted against the quota pursuant to this provision and by-catches of species counted against the quota pursuant to Article 15(8) of Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013 shall, together, not exceed 9 % of the quota.

(8)  Including sandeels.

(9)  May contain up to 4 % of by-catch of herring.’

(10)  This quota may only be fished from 1 April to 31 December.’

---

DECISIONS

| 30.6.2020 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | L 207/15 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

30.6.2020

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

L 207/15

---

COUNCIL DECISION (CFSP) 2020/901

of 29 June 2020

on Union support for the activities of the Preparatory Commission of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organisation (CTBTO) in order to strengthen its monitoring and verification capabilities and in the framework of the implementation of the EU Strategy against Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction

THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,

Having regard to the Treaty on European Union, and in particular Article 28(1) and Article 31(1) thereof,

Having regard to the proposal from the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy,

Whereas:

| (1) | On 12 December 2003, the European Council adopted the EU Strategy against Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction (‘the Strategy’), Chapter III of which contains a list of measures that need to be taken both within the Union and in third countries to combat such proliferation. |
| --- | --- |

(1)

On 12 December 2003, the European Council adopted the EU Strategy against Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction (‘the Strategy’), Chapter III of which contains a list of measures that need to be taken both within the Union and in third countries to combat such proliferation.

| (2) | The Union is actively implementing the Strategy and is giving effect to the measures listed in Chapter III thereof, in particular through releasing financial resources to support specific projects conducted by multilateral institutions, such as the Provisional Technical Secretariat of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organisation (CTBTO). |
| --- | --- |

(2)

The Union is actively implementing the Strategy and is giving effect to the measures listed in Chapter III thereof, in particular through releasing financial resources to support specific projects conducted by multilateral institutions, such as the Provisional Technical Secretariat of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organisation (CTBTO).

| (3) | On 17 November 2003, the Council adopted Common Position 2003/805/CFSP (1) on the universalisation and reinforcement of multilateral agreements in the field of non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their means of delivery. That Common Position calls, inter alia, for the promotion of the signing and ratification of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT). |
| --- | --- |

(3)

On 17 November 2003, the Council adopted Common Position 2003/805/CFSP (1) on the universalisation and reinforcement of multilateral agreements in the field of non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their means of delivery. That Common Position calls, inter alia, for the promotion of the signing and ratification of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT).

| (4) | The States Signatories to the CTBT have decided to establish a Preparatory Commission, endowed with legal capacity and which has standing as an international organisation, to carry out the effective implementation of the CTBT, pending the establishment of the CTBTO. |
| --- | --- |

(4)

The States Signatories to the CTBT have decided to establish a Preparatory Commission, endowed with legal capacity and which has standing as an international organisation, to carry out the effective implementation of the CTBT, pending the establishment of the CTBTO.

| (5) | The early entry into force and universalisation of the CTBT and the strengthening of the monitoring and verification system of the Preparatory Commission of the CTBTO are important objectives of the Strategy. In that context, the nuclear tests carried out by the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea further underlined the importance of the early entry into force of the CTBT and the need for maintaining and strengthening of the CTBT monitoring and verification system. |
| --- | --- |

(5)

The early entry into force and universalisation of the CTBT and the strengthening of the monitoring and verification system of the Preparatory Commission of the CTBTO are important objectives of the Strategy. In that context, the nuclear tests carried out by the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea further underlined the importance of the early entry into force of the CTBT and the need for maintaining and strengthening of the CTBT monitoring and verification system.

| (6) | The United Nations Secretary-General stated in ‘Securing our Common Future: an Agenda for Disarmament’ that by constraining the development of advanced new types of nuclear weapons, the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty put a brake on the arms race and that it also serves as a powerful normative barrier against potential States that might seek to develop, manufacture and subsequently acquire nuclear weapons in violation of their non-proliferation commitments. |
| --- | --- |

(6)

The United Nations Secretary-General stated in ‘Securing our Common Future: an Agenda for Disarmament’ that by constraining the development of advanced new types of nuclear weapons, the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty put a brake on the arms race and that it also serves as a powerful normative barrier against potential States that might seek to develop, manufacture and subsequently acquire nuclear weapons in violation of their non-proliferation commitments.

| (7) | In the framework of the implementation of the Strategy, the Council adopted three Joint Actions and four Decisions on support for activities of the Preparatory Commission of the CTBTO, namely Joint Actions 2006/243/CFSP (2), 2007/468/CFSP (3) and 2008/588/CFSP (4), and Decisions 2010/461/CFSP (5), 2012/699/CFSP (6), (CFSP) 2015/1837 (7) and (CFSP) 2018/298 (8). |
| --- | --- |

(7)

In the framework of the implementation of the Strategy, the Council adopted three Joint Actions and four Decisions on support for activities of the Preparatory Commission of the CTBTO, namely Joint Actions 2006/243/CFSP (2), 2007/468/CFSP (3) and 2008/588/CFSP (4), and Decisions 2010/461/CFSP (5), 2012/699/CFSP (6), (CFSP) 2015/1837 (7) and (CFSP) 2018/298 (8).

| (8) | That Union support should be continued. |
| --- | --- |

(8)

That Union support should be continued.

| (9) | The technical implementation of this Decision should be entrusted to the Preparatory Commission of the CTBTO which, on the basis of its unique expertise and capabilities through the network of the International Monitoring System (IMS), comprising over 337 facilities around the globe, and the International Data Centre (IDC), is the sole international organisation having the ability and legitimacy to implement this Decision. The projects as supported by the Union can only be financed through an extra-budgetary contribution to the Preparatory Commission of the CTBTO, |
| --- | --- |

(9)

The technical implementation of this Decision should be entrusted to the Preparatory Commission of the CTBTO which, on the basis of its unique expertise and capabilities through the network of the International Monitoring System (IMS), comprising over 337 facilities around the globe, and the International Data Centre (IDC), is the sole international organisation having the ability and legitimacy to implement this Decision. The projects as supported by the Union can only be financed through an extra-budgetary contribution to the Preparatory Commission of the CTBTO,

HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:

Article 1

1.   For the purpose of continuing the effective implementation of the Strategy, the Union shall support the activities of the Preparatory Commission of the CTBTO, which aim to:

| (a) | strengthen the capabilities of the CTBT monitoring and verification system, including radionuclide detection; |
| --- | --- |

(a)

strengthen the capabilities of the CTBT monitoring and verification system, including radionuclide detection;

| (b) | strengthen the capabilities of the States Signatories to the CTBT to fulfil their verification responsibilities under the CTBT and to enable them to benefit fully from their participation in the CTBT regime. |
| --- | --- |

(b)

strengthen the capabilities of the States Signatories to the CTBT to fulfil their verification responsibilities under the CTBT and to enable them to benefit fully from their participation in the CTBT regime.

2.   The projects to be financed by the Union shall support:

| (a) | maintenance of certified auxiliary seismic stations, part of the CTBTO IMS; |
| --- | --- |

(a)

maintenance of certified auxiliary seismic stations, part of the CTBTO IMS;

| (b) | engagement with State Signatories, including technical system validation and testing using Cloud technology for phase 3 of the IDC Reengineering; |
| --- | --- |

(b)

engagement with State Signatories, including technical system validation and testing using Cloud technology for phase 3 of the IDC Reengineering;

| (c) | development of the Enhanced High Resolution Atmospheric Transport model; |
| --- | --- |

(c)

development of the Enhanced High Resolution Atmospheric Transport model;

| (d) | a study on possible performance improvements of FLEXPART simulations through Graphics Processing Unit acceleration; |
| --- | --- |

(d)

a study on possible performance improvements of FLEXPART simulations through Graphics Processing Unit acceleration;

| (e) | development of a background estimator tool to quantify radio xenon contributions to detections at IMS stations; |
| --- | --- |

(e)

development of a background estimator tool to quantify radio xenon contributions to detections at IMS stations;

| (f) | development of a source-term estimator tool; |
| --- | --- |

(f)

development of a source-term estimator tool;

| (g) | provision of helpdesk and upgrading support to the virtual exploitation data centre platform; |
| --- | --- |

(g)

provision of helpdesk and upgrading support to the virtual exploitation data centre platform;

| (h) | continuation of the radio xenon mobile measurement campaigns in different regions of the world; |
| --- | --- |

(h)

continuation of the radio xenon mobile measurement campaigns in different regions of the world;

| (i) | provision of technical assistance including integrated capacity building and outreach such as enhancement of seismic, hydroacoustic and infrasound (SHI) automatic processing capabilities in NDC-in-a-Box and simplified, standards compliant IDC products and services access for National Data Centres (NDCs); |
| --- | --- |

(i)

provision of technical assistance including integrated capacity building and outreach such as enhancement of seismic, hydroacoustic and infrasound (SHI) automatic processing capabilities in NDC-in-a-Box and simplified, standards compliant IDC products and services access for National Data Centres (NDCs);

| (j) | support training, workshops and follow-up for emerging NDCs in developing countries worldwide, and acquisition and maintenance of capacity building systems for the NDCs; |
| --- | --- |

(j)

support training, workshops and follow-up for emerging NDCs in developing countries worldwide, and acquisition and maintenance of capacity building systems for the NDCs;

| (k) | support the evolution and homogenisation of the multi-waveform technology processing and interactive system; |
| --- | --- |

(k)

support the evolution and homogenisation of the multi-waveform technology processing and interactive system;

| (l) | organisation of open source seismic impact regional introductory courses for two CTBT geographical regions; |
| --- | --- |

(l)

organisation of open source seismic impact regional introductory courses for two CTBT geographical regions;

| (m) | conduct of outreach to non-signatories and non-ratifying countries, including States whose signature and ratification are required for entry into force of the CTBT, and capacity building for youth, parliamentarians, journalists and scientists in developing or emerging countries. |
| --- | --- |

(m)

conduct of outreach to non-signatories and non-ratifying countries, including States whose signature and ratification are required for entry into force of the CTBT, and capacity building for youth, parliamentarians, journalists and scientists in developing or emerging countries.

3.   In the implementation of the projects referred to in paragraph 2, Union visibility shall be ensured, as well as proper programme management in the implementation of this Decision.

4.   The projects shall be carried out for the benefit of all States Signatories to the CTBT.

5.   All project components shall be supported by proactive and innovative public outreach activities, and resources shall be allocated accordingly.

6.   A detailed description of the projects is set out in the Annex to this Decision.

Article 2

1.   The High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy (the ‘High Representative’) shall be responsible for the implementation of this Decision.

2.   The technical implementation of the projects referred to in Article 1(2) shall be carried out by the Preparatory Commission of the CTBTO. It shall perform this task under the control of the High Representative. For that purpose, the High Representative shall enter into the necessary arrangements with the Preparatory Commission of the CTBTO.

Article 3

1.   The financial reference amount for the implementation of the projects referred to in Article 1(2) shall be EUR 6 288 892,37.

2.   The expenditure financed by the amount set out in paragraph 1 shall be managed in accordance with the procedures and rules applicable to the Union budget.

3.   The European Commission shall supervise the proper management of the financial reference amount referred to in paragraph 1. For that purpose, it shall conclude a financing agreement with the Preparatory Commission of the CTBTO. The financing agreement shall stipulate that the Preparatory Commission of the CTBTO is to ensure visibility of the Union contribution, commensurate with its size.

4.   The European Commission shall endeavour to conclude the financing agreement referred to in paragraph 3 as soon as possible after the entry into force of this Decision. It shall inform the Council of any difficulties in that process and of the date of conclusion of the financing agreement.

Article 4

1.   The High Representative shall report to the Council on the implementation of this Decision on the basis of regular reports prepared by the Preparatory Commission of the CTBTO. Those reports shall form the basis for the evaluation carried out by the Council.

2.   The European Commission shall provide information on the financial aspects of the implementation of the projects referred to in Article 1(2).

Article 5

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

2.   This Decision shall expire 36 months after the date of conclusion of the financing agreement referred to in Article 3(3) or six months after the date of its adoption if no financing agreement has been concluded within that period.

Done at Brussels, 29 June 2020.

For the Council

The President

A. METELKO-ZGOMBIĆ

---

(1)  Council Common Position 2003/805/CFSP of 17 November 2003 on the universalisation and reinforcement of multilateral agreements in the field of non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and means of delivery (OJ L 302, 20.11.2003, p. 34).

1

(2)  Council Joint Action 2006/243/CFSP of 20 March 2006 on support for activities of the Preparatory Commission of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organisation (CTBTO) in the area of training and capacity building for verification and in the framework of the implementation of the EU Strategy against Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction (OJ L 88, 25.3.2006, p. 68).

2

(3)  Council Joint Action 2007/468/CFSP of 28 June 2007 on support for activities of the Preparatory Commission of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organisation (CTBTO) in order to strengthen its monitoring and verification capabilities and in the framework of the implementation of the EU Strategy against the Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction (OJ L 176, 6.7.2007, p. 31).

3

(4)  Council Joint Action 2008/588/CFSP of 15 July 2008 on support for activities of the Preparatory Commission of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organisation (CTBTO) in order to strengthen its monitoring and verification capabilities and in the framework of the implementation of the EU Strategy against Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction (OJ L 189, 17.7.2008, p. 28).

4

(5)  Council Decision 2010/461/CFSP of 26 July 2010 on support for activities of the Preparatory Commission of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organisation (CTBTO) in order to strengthen its monitoring and verification capabilities and in the framework of the implementation of the EU Strategy against Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction (OJ L 219, 20.8.2010, p. 7).

5

(6)  Council Decision 2012/699/CFSP of 13 November 2012 on the Union support for the activities of the Preparatory Commission of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organisation in order to strengthen its monitoring and verification capabilities and in the framework of the implementation of the EU Strategy against Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction (OJ L 314, 14.11.2012, p. 27).

6

(7)  Council Decision (CFSP) 2015/1837 of 12 October 2015 on Union support for the activities of the Preparatory Commission of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organisation (CTBTO) in order to strengthen its monitoring and verification capabilities and in the framework of the implementation of the EU Strategy against Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction (OJ L 266, 13.10.2015, p. 83).

7

(8)  Council Decision (CFSP) 2018/298 of 26 February 2018 on Union support for the activities of the Preparatory Commission for the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO) in order to strengthen its monitoring and verification capabilities and in the framework of the implementation of the EU Strategy against Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction (OJ L 56, 28.2.2018, p. 34).

8

---

ANNEX

Heading 1: Support Verification Technologies and Monitoring System

Component 1: Project 1: IMS Continuous Sustainment of certified IMS auxiliary Seismic Stations

Project 1: Continuous Sustainment of Certified IMS Auxiliary Seismic Stations

Background

The main focus of this project will be to continue addressing failing auxiliary stations, which need urgent maintenance action preferably located in countries facing financial difficulties, while simultaneously proceeding with preventive maintenance. This is done by addressing issues of obsolete equipment and consequent upgrades, as well as through improvement of equipment sparing levels.

Objectives and Deliverables

The principal objective is to bring targeted stations to a technical level compatible with the IMS requirements in a sustainable manner. Adequate preventive maintenance and associated equipment sparing helps achieve this objective. Similarly, the support to the stations and their operator(s) in the case of urgent corrective maintenance, including onsite station visits, where necessary, will minimise down time and help to sustain stations(s). Attention is drawn to the fact that this is achieved in conjunction with other tasks such as stations operator training and workshops in order to maximise sustainability. As in previous projects under former Union funding, a full time, temporary staff will be employed to plan and execute work projects at the relevant stations.

Increased data availability and data quality of the Auxiliary Stations network because of a strengthened sustainment structure leading to increased visibility for the EU.

Component 2: Projects 2–8

Project 2: Engagement with State Signatories, including technical system validation and testing using Cloud technology for Phase 3 of the IDC Reengineering

Background

The IDC has initiated Phase 3 of the IDC Reengineering project (RP3) aiming to develop a comprehensive software system for SHI processing over the next decade.

The project will bring notable improvements over the existing SHI system, such as:

| — | enhanced user interface flexibility for analyst tools, enhanced Analyst review workflow, event management, event cross-correlation and comparison, map tool and map integration, visualisation and editing of waveform quality control masks, frequency-wavenumber (FK) display, and support for analyst training, |
| --- | --- |

—

enhanced user interface flexibility for analyst tools, enhanced Analyst review workflow, event management, event cross-correlation and comparison, map tool and map integration, visualisation and editing of waveform quality control masks, frequency-wavenumber (FK) display, and support for analyst training,

| — | comprehensive capturing of data provenance in order to understand how processing results were arrived at, and investigate the evolution of results as available information changes, |
| --- | --- |

—

comprehensive capturing of data provenance in order to understand how processing results were arrived at, and investigate the evolution of results as available information changes,

| — | extensibility as a major feature built in all components, |
| --- | --- |

—

extensibility as a major feature built in all components,

| — | flexible integrated SHI pipeline configuration supported by graphical tools, |
| --- | --- |

—

flexible integrated SHI pipeline configuration supported by graphical tools,

| — | facilitating a new model for collaborative software development following best practices in the open source software development, |
| --- | --- |

—

facilitating a new model for collaborative software development following best practices in the open source software development,

| — | enhanced monitoring and testing capabilities – Test Data Set Replay. |
| --- | --- |

—

enhanced monitoring and testing capabilities – Test Data Set Replay.

Reengineering Project 2 (RP2) was carried out through Contribution-in-Kind from the USA as well as funding under Decision (CFSP) 2015/1837. The funding was used, in particular, to sustain technical meetings with experts from Member States in order to ensure wide participation in the RP2. Those funds also supported prototyping activities, to show how software contributed by NDCs can be integrated into the reengineered architecture.

In preparation for RP3, funds under Decision (CFSP) 2018/298 were used to raise the technology readiness level for several algorithms, which could be considered for inclusion into the reengineered software, specifically to provide better ways to process seismic aftershock sequences in automatic or semi-automatic mode.

Objectives

| — | Support the evolution of the reengineered system to meet NDC needs from the onset, by supporting the NDC requests for software and related updates, and functionalities for performing NDC activities. |
| --- | --- |

—

Support the evolution of the reengineered system to meet NDC needs from the onset, by supporting the NDC requests for software and related updates, and functionalities for performing NDC activities.

| — | Offer a low-barrier access for State Signatories to support, assess and validate the progress of the IDC Reengineering project. |
| --- | --- |

—

Offer a low-barrier access for State Signatories to support, assess and validate the progress of the IDC Reengineering project.

| — | Enhance the engagement of the NDC community in Phase 3 of the IDC Reengineering project |
| --- | --- |

—

Enhance the engagement of the NDC community in Phase 3 of the IDC Reengineering project

| — | Evaluate the feasibility of a future ‘NDC-as-a-service’ offering, using cloud technology. |
| --- | --- |

—

Evaluate the feasibility of a future ‘NDC-as-a-service’ offering, using cloud technology.

Deliverables

| — | A cloud-based evaluation and testing platform for NDCs, to review the functionality as well as non-functional requirements of the reengineered SHI system. |
| --- | --- |

—

A cloud-based evaluation and testing platform for NDCs, to review the functionality as well as non-functional requirements of the reengineered SHI system.

| — | Multiple hosted instances of the platform to allow non-interference of different NDCs. |
| --- | --- |

—

Multiple hosted instances of the platform to allow non-interference of different NDCs.

| — | A prototype ‘NDC-as-a-service’ system, hosted in the cloud. |
| --- | --- |

—

A prototype ‘NDC-as-a-service’ system, hosted in the cloud.

Outcome

The main benefit of the project is to allow low-barrier access for State Signatories and NDCs to the current state of the reengineered system, especially for NDCs without extensive computing capacity and system support knowledge. Based on this work, the feasibility as well as the cost implications of a potential future ‘NDC-as-a-service’ offering will be provided.

Project 3: Enhancement of High Resolution Atmospheric Transport Model

Background

For the purpose of long-range transport modelling, CTBTO uses an advanced Atmospheric Transport Modelling (ATM) system based on the Lagrangian Particle Dispersion Model FLEXPART. This system allows for modelling on a global scale. However, for special events, there is also the need to perform simulations on a local scale (high resolution). Funded by the Union under previous Council Decisions, the basic version of the High Resolution Atmospheric Transport Model (HRATM) based on FLEXPART-WRF was developed. The initial tests revealed which features have to be enhanced or implemented differently to have a fully reliable system.

Objectives

Enhance an existing high-resolution atmospheric transport model (EHRAT) and develop an interface for its launch.

| — | Familiarisation with the current version of the HRATM installed at CTBTO and the list of suggested enhancements. |
| --- | --- |

—

Familiarisation with the current version of the HRATM installed at CTBTO and the list of suggested enhancements.

| — | Familiarisation with the ATM pipeline, specifically with the format of meteorological data. |
| --- | --- |

—

Familiarisation with the ATM pipeline, specifically with the format of meteorological data.

| — | Propose, develop and test solutions to address these enhancements; |
| --- | --- |

—

Propose, develop and test solutions to address these enhancements;

| — | In view of the fact that the current version works only with National Centres for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) data, propose and implement changes that would allow running the HRATM with the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) data. |
| --- | --- |

—

In view of the fact that the current version works only with National Centres for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) data, propose and implement changes that would allow running the HRATM with the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) data.

| — | Test different cases. |
| --- | --- |

—

Test different cases.

| — | Develop an interface for launching EHRAT in the existing ATM pipeline; if agreed, it can be part of the current launching interface used to run ATM simulations for expert analysis at CTBTO. |
| --- | --- |

—

Develop an interface for launching EHRAT in the existing ATM pipeline; if agreed, it can be part of the current launching interface used to run ATM simulations for expert analysis at CTBTO.

Outcome

The EHRAT will become one of the ATM tools used by the ATM experts and NDCs to test and validate hypotheses related, for instance, the estimation of the source-term location.

Project 4: Study in Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) acceleration of FLEXPART (FLEX-GPU)

Background

For the purpose of long-range transport modelling, CTBTO uses an advanced Atmospheric Transport Modelling (ATM) system based on the Lagrangian Particle Dispersion Model FLEXPART.

Taking into account that, in the future, ensemble modelling may also be part of the operational runs performed by the ATM pipeline a new way to accelerate the simulations is being explored.

The CTBTO has acquired a NVIDIA DGX STATION with 4X Tesla V100 GPUs delivering 500 TFLOPS (mixed precision). It runs Linux and comes with a FORTRAN compiler from PGI, which supports OpenACC, which is used to parallelise suitable algorithms such as loops, and matrix calculations designed for GPU systems.

Objectives

A study to ascertain what possible performance improvements in FLEXPART simulations could be made by GPU acceleration and deliver a ready and documented FLEXPART code package with OpenACC support.

| — | Familiarise with the current version of FLEXPART (9.3.2.) installed at CTBTO and evaluate if it is possible to compile it with the PGI Fortran compiler; evaluate the advantage of using FLEXPART 10 instead of FLEXPART 9.3.2. |
| --- | --- |

—

Familiarise with the current version of FLEXPART (9.3.2.) installed at CTBTO and evaluate if it is possible to compile it with the PGI Fortran compiler; evaluate the advantage of using FLEXPART 10 instead of FLEXPART 9.3.2.

| — | Profile FLEXPART running to find which algorithms/loops are most suitable for an initial attempt at parallelisation and for using the GPUs. |
| --- | --- |

—

Profile FLEXPART running to find which algorithms/loops are most suitable for an initial attempt at parallelisation and for using the GPUs.

| — | Evaluate the performance improvement. |
| --- | --- |

—

Evaluate the performance improvement.

| — | Deliver a ready and documented FLEXPART code package with OpenACC support that should be easy to integrate with the ATM pipeline. |
| --- | --- |

—

Deliver a ready and documented FLEXPART code package with OpenACC support that should be easy to integrate with the ATM pipeline.

Outcome

If the result of this study is positive, the modified FLEXPART could provide a new way to accelerate the ATM simulations. In the next step, this could be integrated with the ATM pipeline and results could be made available to NDCs.

Project 5: Xenon Background Estimator Tool (XeBET)

Background

The presence of a noble gas background in constant evolution in the atmosphere makes the positive identification of a sample associated with a nuclear test challenging. An estimation of the radio xenon contribution from known sources to every sample collected by noble gas systems at IMS stations will be generated by the Xenon Background Estimator Tool. This estimation will help decide if the detection can be explained by known sources.

Objectives

Develop a background estimator tool (BET) to quantify the radio xenon contribution from known sources to the detections at IMS stations. This tool will be based on IMS detections, knowledge of known sources and CTBTO SRS. The new tool must be reliable, optimised, timely and easy to test, maintain and upgrade. It will run at first on Development-LAN.

| — | Perform a literature review to identify the best approach to categorise and quantify civil xenon detections at IMS stations and prepare a project plan for prototype development. |
| --- | --- |

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Perform a literature review to identify the best approach to categorise and quantify civil xenon detections at IMS stations and prepare a project plan for prototype development.

| — | Collect information from known sources and make it available through SWP. |
| --- | --- |

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Collect information from known sources and make it available through SWP.

| — | Elaborate an on-line database for collecting information from known sources. |
| --- | --- |

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Elaborate an on-line database for collecting information from known sources.

| — | Develop and test a prototype on a sub-set of IMS stations. Prototype must be developed for easy transfer to the CTBTO IDC Development-LAN and made available to NDCs. |
| --- | --- |

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Develop and test a prototype on a sub-set of IMS stations. Prototype must be developed for easy transfer to the CTBTO IDC Development-LAN and made available to NDCs.

| — | Run prototype on selected challenging detections (e.g. Democratic People’s Republic of Korea’s tests or other cases) and propose visualisation options. |
| --- | --- |

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Run prototype on selected challenging detections (e.g. Democratic People’s Republic of Korea’s tests or other cases) and propose visualisation options.

| — | Adjust and run BET on a large number of IMS stations. |
| --- | --- |

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Adjust and run BET on a large number of IMS stations.

| — | Contribute to IT transfer to CTBTO. |
| --- | --- |

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Contribute to IT transfer to CTBTO.

| — | Documentation will describe all assumptions made to develop and run the tool. |
| --- | --- |

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Documentation will describe all assumptions made to develop and run the tool.

Outcome

BET will provide objective information for every IMS noble gas sample to help decide to which extent a specific detection is more likely to be associated to a nuclear test or to known sources. This information in turn will be used as input to a source term reconstruction tool. The results and conclusions of the studies carried out could be based or shared with the WOSMIP (Workshop on Signatures of Man-Made Isotope Production) community.

Project 6: Source-Term Estimator

Background

Several promising approaches to estimate the source-term parameters (location, temporal release profile and total amount of radioactivity released) from detections have emerged in the last several years. This information about the parameters of a source is very important for the CTBTO in case of a Treaty-relevant event. The proposition is to adapt one of those approaches to CTBTO’s needs. The new tool must be reliable, optimised, timely and easy to test, maintain and upgrade. It will run at first on IDC Development-LAN.

Objectives

The Source Term Estimator (STE) will generate a first automatic estimation of source term parameters using detections and non-detections from IMS stations. An interface will be developed for IDC and NDCs experts to interactively test different sets of hypotheses.

Deliverables

| — | Perform a literature review to identify the best approach for source term localisation and quantification, and prepare a project plan for development and testing of the STE. |
| --- | --- |

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Perform a literature review to identify the best approach for source term localisation and quantification, and prepare a project plan for development and testing of the STE.

| — | Develop and test a prototype on different cases, propose and develop visualisation and interface options. Prototype must be developed for easy transfer to the CTBTO IDC tools and made available to NDCs. |
| --- | --- |

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Develop and test a prototype on different cases, propose and develop visualisation and interface options. Prototype must be developed for easy transfer to the CTBTO IDC tools and made available to NDCs.

| — | Contribute to IT transfer to the CTBTO. |
| --- | --- |

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Contribute to IT transfer to the CTBTO.

| — | Documentation will describe all assumptions made to develop and run the tool. |
| --- | --- |

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Documentation will describe all assumptions made to develop and run the tool.

Outcome

The STE will provide objective information to help locate a possible test location and estimate its strength. Such a tool has the potential to indicate a more limited area that can contain the source, and can help to estimate the probability to detect radionuclides over time, which is a significant advantage if an On-site Inspection (OSI) is required.

Project 7: Helpdesk support to Virtual Exploitation Data Centre (vDEC)

Background

The vDEC platform allows access to CTBTO archived data for research and academic institutions working on scientific projects. The access is restricted to the data specifically needed for the purpose of the project and a contractual framework defines the mutual agreement between CTBTO and the vDEC user. In particular, publication of scientific work is permitted, provided that the CTBTO is acknowledged as the source of data in the publication.

The platform has been in existence for eight years, and vDEC users have published many peer-reviewed papers in reputable scientific journals.

While a lot of the technical aspects of support for the vDEC platform have been absorbed into the general support activities of IDC staff, there is a need for additional, more specific support. This includes a helpdesk function covering not only access to the computer platform on which the archive is installed and access to the database containing the data, but also the more domain-specific aspects, for instance, help with understanding the data model, the stations specifications, the calibration of the stations, and the like. Support also includes upgrading the configuration of the vDEC platform and of the software installed on the platform.

Since users expect the platform to evolve with time, and the archived data is growing in size, a planning function is also needed that would develop a vision for the near-term evolution of the platform. Finally, the support will provide maintenance of the public database of publications based on CTBTO data obtained through vDEC access.

Objectives

| — | Support daily activities of vDEC users through a helpdesk function. |
| --- | --- |

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Support daily activities of vDEC users through a helpdesk function.

| — | Plan for upgrades and new functionalities to be installed. |
| --- | --- |

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Plan for upgrades and new functionalities to be installed.

| — | Maintain a public database of publications based on CTBTO data obtained through vDEC access. |
| --- | --- |

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Maintain a public database of publications based on CTBTO data obtained through vDEC access.

Deliverables

| — | Quartely report on support activities. |
| --- | --- |

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Quartely report on support activities.

| — | Plan for upgrades and enhancements. |
| --- | --- |

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Plan for upgrades and enhancements.

| — | Public database of publications based on CTBTO data obtained through vDEC access. |
| --- | --- |

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Public database of publications based on CTBTO data obtained through vDEC access.

Outcome

| — | Enhanced support for vDEC users, increasing their satisfaction. |
| --- | --- |

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Enhanced support for vDEC users, increasing their satisfaction.

| — | Enhanced vDEC platform. |
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Enhanced vDEC platform.

| — | Documentation of vDEC scientific outcome. |
| --- | --- |

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Documentation of vDEC scientific outcome.

Project 8: Continuing the radio xenon mobile measurement campaigns in different regions of the world

Background

The Preparatory Commission for the CTBTO is carrying out radio xenon measurements with very sensitive systems. With the contribution received from the Union within the framework of Joint Action 2008/588/CFSP, the Commission developed and purchased two transportable systems: the SAUNA TXL-2 and the SPALAX-DR for measuring 133Xe, 135Xe, 133mXe and 131mXe. Within the framework of Decisions 2012/699/CFSP, (CFSP) 2015/1837 and (CFSP) 2018/298, several mobile radio xenon measurement campaigns were conducted worldwide.

With the contribution received from the Government of Japan in 2017, the Commission purchased a third transportable system. This system is currently deployed at Horonobe, Japan. The two-year period of operation under Japanese funding ends in January 2020.

In the framework of Decision (CFSP) 2018/298, one measurement campaign is being held at Mutsu, Japan. The second system has been refurbished and will be deployed at Fukuoka, Japan.

Objectives

With the third mobile system deployed at Fukuoka, the high-density configuration around the IMS noble gas system JPX38 at Takasaki is complete. The CTBTO is planning to continue operating the systems at their current location, upon agreement with the local host, until the data set collected is considered scientifically and statistically profitable for future studies by the experts’ community and the NDCs. The three mobile systems in Japan shall be operated in this configuration for at least one year. Then the mobile systems would be relocated, according to a clear deployment strategy. A possible new location will be considered for each of these three systems based on what scientific output can be expected that is needed for calibration and performance of the IMS noble gas systems as described in the CTBT.

Any upgrades or refurbishments will be performed at the end of the campaign as required. Cooperation agreements with future host countries are under discussion.

To continue these measurement campaigns, funds are required for the shipment of the mobile noble gas systems to new locations, and to run and maintain the three systems for two years. Funds will also be available for organising expert meetings for a review of the results. Special effort will be made to use these expert meetings as an opportunity for capacity building and discussing future studies based on measurement campaign data. Upon request of the host country, the project will also support capacity building regarding noble gas monitoring including related civil and scientific uses.

Outcome

The main benefits of the temporary measurement campaigns with mobile radioxenon systems are the development and advance scientific methods focused on calibration and performance of the verification system as described in the CTBT and, where appropriate, related capacity building.

Heading 2: Technical assistance including integrated capacity building and outreach

For all projects under this heading, the PTS is encouraged to prioritise experts from CTBTO member States which at least partially honour their assessed contributions.

PART 1: Technical assistance and capacity building

Project 1: Enhancement of SHI automatic processing capabilities in NDC-in-a-Box [SeisComp3 SEEDLink and NET-VISA components] & simplified, standards compliant IDC products and services access for NDCs

Background

The IDC has introduced automatic processing capabilities in SHI NDC-in-a-Box SeisComp3 based on the NET-VISA associator. This new capability, which is currently being tested by NDCs, allows users to reproduce VSEL bulletin results achieved at the IDC. Building on this achievement, the IDC proposes to enhance the NET-VISA SeisComp3 component to also support the usage of NDC specific local stations and regional networks.

Additionally, the IDC is building a new capability to improve support for open source seismic analysis packages, such as SEISAN, by offering real-time waveform data transmission to NDCs using the standard SEEDLink protocol. This service will only be available to NDCs connected through the Global Communications Infrastructure network. This limitation is imposed by technical shortfalls in the SeisComp3 SEEDLink server component. The IDC proposes to enhance the SesiComp3 SEEDLink server by introducing robust authentication and encryption mechanisms so that the service can also be offered to authorised users through a secured internet connection.

To improve support in accessing IDC products and services, the IDC proposes to implement Federation of Digital Seismograph Networks (FDSN) compliant web services. This new, standards-compliant data access method will allow many users of open source seismic analysis packages, such as SEISAN, to easily retrieve products and data from the IDC from within applications that support this standard. It will augment Virtual Data Messaging System (VDMS), but not replace it, as many VDMS messages are not defined in FDSN web services (e.g. key requests) standard. All web services defined by the FDSN standard (fdsnws-station, fdsnws-dataselect, fdsnws-event and fdsnws-availability) shall be implemented.

Objectives

Provision of online material for NDCs in integrating IMS data with locally used open source seismic analysis packages such SEISAN

| — | Enhance the automatic processing capabilities of SHI NDC-in-a-Box by supporting NDC specific local stations and regional networks in NET-VISA. |
| --- | --- |

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Enhance the automatic processing capabilities of SHI NDC-in-a-Box by supporting NDC specific local stations and regional networks in NET-VISA.

| — | Simplify and modernise access to real-time IMS waveform data for authorised users. |
| --- | --- |

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Simplify and modernise access to real-time IMS waveform data for authorised users.

Deliverables

All deliverables for this project consist in enhancements to the software modules that are part of the NDC-in-a-Box (including new software modules for future versions of NDC-in-a-Box).

Outcome

| — | Continue building on the efforts for NDC-in-a-Box software initiated under Decision 2012/699/CFSP and continued under Decisions (CFSP) 2015/1837 and (CFSP) 2018/298 in allowing NDCs to process the data available from both the IMS and local stations, as well as regional networks. |
| --- | --- |

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Continue building on the efforts for NDC-in-a-Box software initiated under Decision 2012/699/CFSP and continued under Decisions (CFSP) 2015/1837 and (CFSP) 2018/298 in allowing NDCs to process the data available from both the IMS and local stations, as well as regional networks.

| — | Collaborate with NDCs to simplify authorised and secured access to real-time IMS waveform data. |
| --- | --- |

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Collaborate with NDCs to simplify authorised and secured access to real-time IMS waveform data.

Project 2: Training, workshops and follow-up for emerging NDCs (worldwide developing countries) acquisition and maintenance of Capacity Building Systems (CBS) for the NDCs

Background

Capacity building has proven to be fundamental for strengthening the CTBT’s verification regime.

The Commission has successfully continued with the support to States Signatories in providing means to develop capabilities to actively participate in CTBT verification. Developing countries from different continents have started taking advantage of the provision of data and products by the International Data Centre, as these are useful not only for verification purposes but also for civil, scientific and industrial applications.

The capacity-building strategy of the Commission has been recognised by the Working Group B (WGB). During the lifespan of the Union funding, scientific and technical staff (in the order of hundreds) have taken specialised training on the use of the NDC-in-a-box software package, as well as CTBT-related knowledge that directly rewards the potential national authorities at each State.

Developing country institutions hosting National Data Centres NDCs have also been benefitting from the provision of basic equipment to start or further develop their laboratories for data processing.

Objectives

The objectives of the Commission’s capacity-building activities are:

| — | software and infrastructure development, |
| --- | --- |

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software and infrastructure development,

| — | technical workshops, |
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technical workshops,

| — | training for emerging NDCs on IMS data access and on IMS and IDC tools, |
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training for emerging NDCs on IMS data access and on IMS and IDC tools,

| — | training of experts from emerging NDCs though visits to EU NDCs, |
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training of experts from emerging NDCs though visits to EU NDCs,

| — | systematic training for extended NDC-in-a-box (eNIAB) software, |
| --- | --- |

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systematic training for extended NDC-in-a-box (eNIAB) software,

| — | support for integrating the processing of IMS data with national and regional seismic networks, |
| --- | --- |

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support for integrating the processing of IMS data with national and regional seismic networks,

| — | support for NDCs in integrating IMS data with locally used open source seismic analysis packages such as SEISAN, |
| --- | --- |

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support for NDCs in integrating IMS data with locally used open source seismic analysis packages such as SEISAN,

| — | provision of remedial technical assistance in the form of CBS equipment and related maintenance and replacement. |
| --- | --- |

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provision of remedial technical assistance in the form of CBS equipment and related maintenance and replacement.

Outcome

The capabilities of States Signatories, in particular in developing countries, to participate in the CTBT verification regime will be enhanced.

Project 3: Evolution and homogenisation of the multi-waveform technology processing and interactive system

Background

The IDC has redesigned the infrasound automatic system and developed extended-NDC-in-a-Box projects with initial release of the software in 2016 and major updates in 2018 and 2019. The infrasound processing system efforts consisted of the development of an automatic processing array station system and the interactive review software. The tools developed have been integrated in NDC-in-a-Box (including the latest release version 5.0 in 2019) and in the IDC processing environment. In addition, the hydro-acoustic processing system has potential to greatly leverage from the efforts made in developing the infrasound technology, as many components between these two technologies are compatible on a large scale. However, there is a need to pursue efforts to homogenise the software components and processes while taking into account a number of independent and specific technology needs.

Thanks to NDC-in-a-Box and dedicated infrasound trainings provided using previous Union funding, NDCs have gained capabilities for infrasound technologies and they are making intensive use of the NDC-in-a-Box tools. The IDC continuously receives requests for dedicated waveform technology trainings, including infrasound and hydro-acoustic technologies, and demands for new or enhanced specialised software.

The IDC proposes to continue efforts to complete the infrasound and hydro-acoustic processing systems in support of IDC and IMS needs and to address the NDCs’ requests for state-of-the-art software. The project aim is to bring the hydro-acoustic processing system on par with the redesigned infrasound system and homogenise the common software components and refine specific individual technology dependencies, while continuing to advance the processing to keep abreast with the latest technology developments. This project should also allow IDC to plan a smooth integration of IDC specific tools into the IDC re-engineered system presently under development.

Objectives

| — | Support the evolution of the station processing system to continuously meet IMS and IDC operations sustainment needs. |
| --- | --- |

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Support the evolution of the station processing system to continuously meet IMS and IDC operations sustainment needs.

| — | Support the NDC requests for software, software update and functionalities for performing NDC activities. |
| --- | --- |

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Support the NDC requests for software, software update and functionalities for performing NDC activities.

| — | Continue the implementation of state-of-the-art functionalities to improve infrasound and hydro-acoustic signal analyses and interpretation for source identification, in order to maintain the scientific credibility of the hydro-acoustic and infrasound technologies at the CTBTO. |
| --- | --- |

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Continue the implementation of state-of-the-art functionalities to improve infrasound and hydro-acoustic signal analyses and interpretation for source identification, in order to maintain the scientific credibility of the hydro-acoustic and infrasound technologies at the CTBTO.

| — | Pursue efforts to include wave propagation models with uncertainty quantification, in particular for infrasound technology by taking into account high resolution atmospheric specifications for network processing and in-depth event analysis to meet Medium Term Strategy objectives. |
| --- | --- |

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Pursue efforts to include wave propagation models with uncertainty quantification, in particular for infrasound technology by taking into account high resolution atmospheric specifications for network processing and in-depth event analysis to meet Medium Term Strategy objectives.

Deliverables

All deliverables for this project consist of enhancements to the software modules that are part of the IDC processing system and NDC-in-a-Box (including new software modules for future versions of NDC-in-a-Box).

Outcome

| — | Continue building the technical and scientific credibility of the IDC infrasound and hydro-acoustic systems and ensure the sustainment of IDC and IMS operations as outlined in strategic goal 1 of the Medium Term Strategy 2018-2021 |
| --- | --- |

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Continue building the technical and scientific credibility of the IDC infrasound and hydro-acoustic systems and ensure the sustainment of IDC and IMS operations as outlined in strategic goal 1 of the Medium Term Strategy 2018-2021

| — | Continue building on the efforts for NDC-in-a-Box software initiated and developed from previous Union funding, allowing NDCs to process the data available from the IMS for both CTBT monitoring and for national purposes. These efforts have created a strong NDC user base and the proposed project would further increase NDCs’ trust in the credibility of the verification system. This also provides NDCs with additional capabilities to automatically process IDC data, mixing data from IMS and non-IMS stations in NDC-in-a-Box and reproducing IDC results in NDC-in-a-Box automatic processing. |
| --- | --- |

—

Continue building on the efforts for NDC-in-a-Box software initiated and developed from previous Union funding, allowing NDCs to process the data available from the IMS for both CTBT monitoring and for national purposes. These efforts have created a strong NDC user base and the proposed project would further increase NDCs’ trust in the credibility of the verification system. This also provides NDCs with additional capabilities to automatically process IDC data, mixing data from IMS and non-IMS stations in NDC-in-a-Box and reproducing IDC results in NDC-in-a-Box automatic processing.

| — | Collaborate with NDCs to build state-of-the-art infrasound and hydro-acoustic systems as part of IDC re-engineering efforts. |
| --- | --- |

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Collaborate with NDCs to build state-of-the-art infrasound and hydro-acoustic systems as part of IDC re-engineering efforts.

PART 2: Project 1 Capacity building for OSI technologies

Project: OSI Regional Introductory Courses for 2 CTBT Geographical Regions

Background

OSI Regional Introductory Courses (RIC) have proven to be fundamental in strengthening the CTBT’s verification regime, specifically in the development of an OSI Inspectorate Training Program and in the nomination of surrogate inspector trainee candidates for that programme from Signatory States.

The Commission is in the final stages of the OSI Surrogate Inspector 3rd Training Cycle. The geographical and gender distribution of this current training cycle is statistically the most diverse trainee population compared to the 1st and 2nd Training cycles.

Records show a correlation between the increased numbers of nominees from a geographical region after the conduct of a RIC. The 2 most recent RICs (conducted in Argentina in 2019 and South Africa in 2016) showed a substantial increase in expert nominees from the Latin America and Caribbean (LAC) region and Africa respectively, both of which were previously underrepresented regions in OSI training activities. The percentage of post-RIC representation for the LAC region however, did not match that of Africa, simply because the RIC in Africa was conducted immediately prior to the start of the 3rd Training Cycle, whilst the RIC in Argentina was conducted 2 years later during the middle of the training cycle.

While RICs have been conducted biennially in the past, this project proposes to conduct 2 RICS in 2 different CTBT geographical regions within 12 months of each other, in order to have the broadest geographical and gender pool of trainees prior to the start of the 4th OSI Surrogate Inspector Training Program.

Objectives

OSI Regional Introductory Courses have two objectives:

| — | to acquaint national technical experts and personnel from the States Signatories of the region with the OSI regime, |
| --- | --- |

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to acquaint national technical experts and personnel from the States Signatories of the region with the OSI regime,

| — | to broaden the pool of experts from the States Signatories of the region who are available to participate in OSI-related activities and to identify potential candidates for the Provisional Technical Secretariat (PTS) roster of surrogate inspectors. |
| --- | --- |

—

to broaden the pool of experts from the States Signatories of the region who are available to participate in OSI-related activities and to identify potential candidates for the Provisional Technical Secretariat (PTS) roster of surrogate inspectors.

Outcome

Provision of foundational knowledge of the CTBT and its OSI-related provisions as well as an overview of OSI activities and equipment, using hands-on training for experts from States Signatories, in particular developing countries, resulting in an increase in nominations and participation in future OIS training programs.

PART 3: Outreach to non-signatories and non-ratifying countries including Annex 2 States & capacity building of Youth, Parliamentarians, journalists and scientists in developing or emerging countries

Project 1: Outreach to scientists, academics, civil society, international and non-governmental organisations, parliamentarians and other policy makers, towards entry into force of the CTBT

Background

Expert-level interaction with the Preparatory Commission is an indispensable means of maintaining both political support for, and technical edge and foresight in, all aspects of the CTBT.

Over the past few years, a series of conferences and academic, diplomatic and scientific outreach events (for example, biennial CTBT Science and Technology Conference, Regional CTBT Workshops and Conferences, Symposiums) have been instrumental to build, maintain and expand confidence in the verification regime of CTBTO. They have also enhanced public awareness of CTBTO role and underscored the importance of the CTBT as a cornerstone of the global non-proliferation and disarmament regime.

The project below capitalises on previous activities, which were funded by the Union under previous Council Decisions and former Joint Actions and further strengthens PTS access to strategic knowledge and competences.

The project will make use of cross-organisational synergies and linkages with the broader PTS outreach strategy.

Objectives

Item (i)

Strengthening the SnT process through engagement with leading scientific and technological centres across the globe

Continued access to scientific and technological knowledge is vital for the PTS to maintain a technical edge and be accurately prepared for any emerging technological challenge. In addition, fostering cooperation with leading scientific centres would allow CTBTO to raise awareness of the CTBT and its role among a rising trans-national generation of new scientists and technical experts.

Deliverables

This project proposes to conduct up to four courses and training programmes of different sizes on CTBT issues, particularly on the scientific and technical aspects of the CTBT.

Developing countries and Annex 2 States will be specifically targeted, in line with the entry into force and universalisation strategies of the PTS. Following on from the planned Science and Diplomacy Symposium 2020, set to be funded under Decision (CFSP) 2018/298, the project will provide seed funding for the next in the series of Symposiums and the Science and Technology Conference 2021, with a particular emphasis on contributing to participation by women and developing country participants, as well as non-ratifying Annex 2 States, including young members of the CTBTO Youth Group and Group of Eminent Persons.

Item (ii)

Universalisation of the Treaty through Regional and Sub-regional Workshops:

Achieving a world free of nuclear testing through a legally-binding and enforceable regime is a responsibility of the whole international community.

To achieve this goal, a proactive strategy for awareness raising, confidence building and regional cooperation must be taken.

For example the Pacific Island States Regional Workshop held in 2018, and the South East Asian Regional Workshop hosted in 2014, reaped dividends in terms of securing additional signatures and ratifications of the Treaty such as Thailand and Tuvalu.

Deliverables

This specific segment of the project will focus on convening at least four sub-regional conferences. Two of them will take place on the African continent with the scope of encouraging remaining African countries to ratify the CTBT. One workshop will be convened among English speaking African nations. The second one will focus on the Francophone membership.

The other two workshops will instead involve young scientists and will seek to spearhead regional scientific dialogue in Asia and in Europe respectively.

Item (iii)

Reviving Academic Interest in CTBT:

During the 80s and the 90s, debate flourished within academia on how to bring to a halt global nuclear testing. Intellectual impetus was inspired and largely sustained also by social movements of young environmentalists interested in achieving stronger global cooperation towards a more sustainable way of living. Today, academic work on the CTBT and the norm against nuclear testing is scant. As a result, educational curricula rarely discuss the role of the CTBT and its important function. This project can remedy this situation by providing small seed funding to cover:

Deliverables

| — | The convening of three academic workshops: in London, Paris, Moscow, Washington, Berlin or Algiers. |
| --- | --- |

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The convening of three academic workshops: in London, Paris, Moscow, Washington, Berlin or Algiers.

| — | The commissioning of at least five papers that discuss the way in which the CTBT is critical in building strategic trust and confidence both at regional and global level. |
| --- | --- |

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The commissioning of at least five papers that discuss the way in which the CTBT is critical in building strategic trust and confidence both at regional and global level.

| — | Outreach to at least 10 universities teaching issues related to arms control and non-proliferation issues to encourage them to include the CTBT in their educational curriculum at both undergraduate and graduate level. |
| --- | --- |

—

Outreach to at least 10 universities teaching issues related to arms control and non-proliferation issues to encourage them to include the CTBT in their educational curriculum at both undergraduate and graduate level.

Item (iv)

Establishing a CTBT publication for young scholars

Since the establishment of its Youth Group in 2016, CTBTO has undertaken concerned efforts to ensure consistent presence by young people in all its workshops and events. In addition, during the Science and Technology Conference 2017 and 2019, a magazine called Newsroom Project was issued to highlight younger scholars’ perspectives on how to bring into force the CTBT.

Deliverables

Given the positive feedback received, this project would ensure a consistent and periodic (ideally twice yearly) release of the magazine Most importantly, the funding of this project would improve the quality of the publication and transform it into a venue for dialogue and ideas exchange among young scholars on the CTBT.

Outcome

In addition to enhanced global security, Union support for this project will bolster the EU Strategy against the Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction and the Common Position of the Council of the European Union on the universalisation and reinforcement of multilateral agreements, in the field of non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and means of delivery. The projects will engage a broad community of stakeholders on CTBT-related issues; will promote intra-organisational synergies, efficiency and effectiveness, within the PTS; and will further intensify the outreach to key stakeholders in States yet to sign and/or ratify the CTBT, including Annex II States, in order to achieve entry into force and universalisation of the CTBT.

Project 2: Project for the participation of technical experts from Developing Countries in official technical meetings of the Preparatory Commission (informal reference ‘Pilot Project’)

Increased participation of developing and emerging country experts in official technical meetings of the Commission and in scientific and technical meetings held by the PTS. The experts are provided with an opportunity to enhance their scientific and technical knowledge and skills with respect to the verification technologies (seismic, hydroacoustic, infrasound and radio).

Background

Many developing and emerging countries lack the financial resources to enable their experts to participate in the scientific and technical work being undertaken in official technical meetings of the Preparatory Commission. This means that there is a clear deficit in the involvement of developing country representatives in recommendations made and decisions taken, on key technical issues relevant to the CTBT’s verification regime. This deficit is problematic given that many stations of the CTBT’s International Monitoring System are, or will be, located on the territory of developing and emerging countries and are managed by the country’s institutions. Moreover, many developing countries are in the process of establishing and improving their National Data Centres to enable them to take advantage of the data and products generated by the verification system.

This lack of participation also means that many countries are excluded from an important means to enhance their capacity, knowledge and skills related to the verification technologies of the CTBT. These technologies are relevant not only for the disarmament and non-proliferation objectives of the CTBT, but also for important civil and scientific applications of broader benefit to communities in these countries, such as disaster warning for tsunamis, earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

Thus, during Part II of its Twenty-Seventh Session (13–17 November 2006), the Commission agreed to establish a pilot project aimed to address this challenge. At its Fifty-first Session (7–9 November 2018), the Commission decided to continue the project for a further three years, from 2019 to 2021.

So far it was possible to sustain funding for up to 12 experts. With this additional funding more experts could be selected from usually larger pool of candidates’ nominations.

Objectives

Strengthening the universal character of the Preparatory Commission for the CTBTO and capacity building in developing and emerging countries through increased involvement of those country experts in CTBTO policy-making processes and their enhanced capacity in relation to the CTBTO’s verification technologies and the latter’s broader civil and scientific applications.

Outcome

Increased participation of developing and emerging country experts in official technical meetings of the Commission and in scientific and technical meetings held by the PTS. The experts are provided with an opportunity to enhance their scientific and technical knowledge and skills with respect to the verification technologies (seismic, hydroacoustic, infrasound and radionuclide).

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| 30.6.2020 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | L 207/30 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

30.6.2020

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

L 207/30

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COUNCIL DECISION (CFSP) 2020/902

of 29 June 2020

amending Decision 2013/354/CFSP on the European Union Police Mission for the Palestinian Territories (EUPOL COPPS)

THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,

Having regard to the Treaty on European Union, and in particular Article 42(4) and Article 43(2) thereof,

Having regard to the proposal from the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy,

Whereas:

| (1) | On 3 July 2013, the Council adopted Decision 2013/354/CFSP (1), which continued EUPOL COPPS as from 1 July 2013. |
| --- | --- |

(1)

On 3 July 2013, the Council adopted Decision 2013/354/CFSP (1), which continued EUPOL COPPS as from 1 July 2013.

| (2) | On 28 June 2019, the Council adopted Decision (CFSP) 2019/1114 (2), which amended Decision 2013/354/CFSP and extended it from 1 July 2019 until 30 June 2020. |
| --- | --- |

(2)

On 28 June 2019, the Council adopted Decision (CFSP) 2019/1114 (2), which amended Decision 2013/354/CFSP and extended it from 1 July 2019 until 30 June 2020.

| (3) | The Political and Security Committee (‘PSC’) agreed on 28 March 2019 and confirmed on 16 April 2020 that the Mission should be extended with the same mandate, for a further period of 12 months, until 30 June 2021, with the understanding that the Mission will be subject to a Strategic Review as soon as circumstances allow. |
| --- | --- |

(3)

The Political and Security Committee (‘PSC’) agreed on 28 March 2019 and confirmed on 16 April 2020 that the Mission should be extended with the same mandate, for a further period of 12 months, until 30 June 2021, with the understanding that the Mission will be subject to a Strategic Review as soon as circumstances allow.

| (4) | EUPOL COPPS should be granted a financial reference amount for this new one-year period. |
| --- | --- |

(4)

EUPOL COPPS should be granted a financial reference amount for this new one-year period.

| (5) | On 14 May 2020 the PSC furthermore agreed that Mr Kauko AALTOMAA, who was appointed Head of Mission on 28 September 2017 by Political and Security Committee Decision (CFSP) 2017/1802 (3), and whose mandate was extended on 2 July 2019 by Political and Security Committee Decision (CFSP) 2019/1165 (4) until 30 June 2020, should continue to perform this function until 30 September 2020. |
| --- | --- |

(5)

On 14 May 2020 the PSC furthermore agreed that Mr Kauko AALTOMAA, who was appointed Head of Mission on 28 September 2017 by Political and Security Committee Decision (CFSP) 2017/1802 (3), and whose mandate was extended on 2 July 2019 by Political and Security Committee Decision (CFSP) 2019/1165 (4) until 30 June 2020, should continue to perform this function until 30 September 2020.

| (6) | Decision 2013/354/CFSP should be amended accordingly. |
| --- | --- |

(6)

Decision 2013/354/CFSP should be amended accordingly.

| (7) | EUPOL COPPS will be conducted in the context of a situation which may deteriorate and could impede the achievement of the objectives of the Union’s external action as set out in Article 21 of the Treaty, |
| --- | --- |

(7)

EUPOL COPPS will be conducted in the context of a situation which may deteriorate and could impede the achievement of the objectives of the Union’s external action as set out in Article 21 of the Treaty,

HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:

Article 1

Decision 2013/354/CFSP is amended as follows:

| (1) | in Article 6, the following paragraph is added:

  ‘8.   Mr Kauko AALTOMAA shall be the Head of Mission for the period from 1 July 2020 until 30 September 2020.’; |
| --- | --- |

(1)

in Article 6, the following paragraph is added:

‘8.   Mr Kauko AALTOMAA shall be the Head of Mission for the period from 1 July 2020 until 30 September 2020.’;

| (2) | in Article 12(1), the following subparagraph is added:
  ‘The financial reference amount intended to cover the expenditure related to EUPOL COPPS for the period from 1 July 2020 until 30 June 2021 shall be EUR 12 651 893,91.’; |
| --- | --- |

(2)

in Article 12(1), the following subparagraph is added:

‘The financial reference amount intended to cover the expenditure related to EUPOL COPPS for the period from 1 July 2020 until 30 June 2021 shall be EUR 12 651 893,91.’;

| (3) | in Article 15, the third paragraph is replaced by the following:
  ‘It shall expire on 30 June 2021.’. |
| --- | --- |

(3)

in Article 15, the third paragraph is replaced by the following:

‘It shall expire on 30 June 2021.’.

Article 2

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

It shall apply from 1 July 2020.

Done at Brussels, 29 June 2020.

For the Council

The President

A. METELKO-ZGOMBIĆ

---

(1)  Council Decision 2013/354/CFSP of 3 July 2013 on the European Union Police Mission for the Palestinian Territories (EUPOL COPPS) (OJ L 185, 4.7.2013, p. 12).

1

(2)  Council Decision (CFSP) 2019/1114 of 28 June 2019 amending Decision 2013/354/CFSP on the European Union Police Mission for the Palestinian Territories (EUPOL COPPS) (OJ L 176, 1.7.2019, p. 5).

2

(3)  Political and Security Committee Decision (CFSP) 2017/1802 of 28 September 2017 on the appointment of the Head of Mission of the European Union Police Mission for the Palestinian Territories (EUPOL COPPS) (EUPOL COPPS/1/2017) (OJ L 259, 7.10.2017, p. 20).

3

(4)  Political and Security Committee Decision (CFSP) 2019/1165 of 2 July 2019 extending the mandate of the Head of Mission of the European Union Police Mission for the Palestinian Territories (EUPOL COPPS) (EUPOL COPPS/1/2019) (OJ L 182, 8.7.2019, p. 43).

4

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| 30.6.2020 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | L 207/32 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

30.6.2020

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

L 207/32

---

COUNCIL DECISION (CFSP) 2020/903

of 29 June 2020

amending Decision 2013/233/CFSP on the European Union Integrated Border Management Assistance Mission in Libya (EUBAM Libya)

THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,

Having regard to the Treaty on European Union, and in particular Article 42(4) and Article 43(2) thereof,

Having regard to the proposal from the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy,

Whereas:

| (1) | On 22 May 2013, the Council adopted Decision 2013/233/CFSP (1), which established the European Union Integrated Border Management Assistance Mission in Libya (EUBAM Libya). |
| --- | --- |

(1)

On 22 May 2013, the Council adopted Decision 2013/233/CFSP (1), which established the European Union Integrated Border Management Assistance Mission in Libya (EUBAM Libya).

| (2) | On 17 December 2018, the Council adopted Decision (CFSP) 2018/2009 (2), which extended the mandate of EUBAM Libya until 30 June 2020. |
| --- | --- |

(2)

On 17 December 2018, the Council adopted Decision (CFSP) 2018/2009 (2), which extended the mandate of EUBAM Libya until 30 June 2020.

| (3) | On 16 April 2020, the Political and Security Committee (‘PSC’) agreed that, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, EUBAM Libya should be extended by one year with the same mandate, which may be reviewed when circumstances allow. |
| --- | --- |

(3)

On 16 April 2020, the Political and Security Committee (‘PSC’) agreed that, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, EUBAM Libya should be extended by one year with the same mandate, which may be reviewed when circumstances allow.

| (4) | On 14 May 2020, the PSC furthermore agreed that Mr Vincenzo TAGLIAFERRI, who was appointed as Head of Mission on 30 August 2016 by Political and Security Committee Decision (CFSP) 2016/1634 (3), and whose mandate was regularly extended, most recently until 30 June 2020 by Political and Security Committee Decision (CFSP) 2019/2077 (4), should continue to perform this function until 30 September 2020. |
| --- | --- |

(4)

On 14 May 2020, the PSC furthermore agreed that Mr Vincenzo TAGLIAFERRI, who was appointed as Head of Mission on 30 August 2016 by Political and Security Committee Decision (CFSP) 2016/1634 (3), and whose mandate was regularly extended, most recently until 30 June 2020 by Political and Security Committee Decision (CFSP) 2019/2077 (4), should continue to perform this function until 30 September 2020.

| (5) | Decision 2013/233/CFSP should be amended accordingly. |
| --- | --- |

(5)

Decision 2013/233/CFSP should be amended accordingly.

| (6) | EUBAM Libya will be conducted in the context of a situation which may deteriorate and could impede the achievement of the objectives of the Union’s external action as set out in Article 21 of the Treaty, |
| --- | --- |

(6)

EUBAM Libya will be conducted in the context of a situation which may deteriorate and could impede the achievement of the objectives of the Union’s external action as set out in Article 21 of the Treaty,

HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:

Article 1

Decision 2013/233/CFSP is hereby amended as follows:

| (1) | in Article 6, the following paragraph is added:

  ‘8.   Mr Vincenzo TAGLIAFERRI shall be the Head of Mission for the period from 1 July 2020 until 30 September 2020.’; |
| --- | --- |

(1)

in Article 6, the following paragraph is added:

‘8.   Mr Vincenzo TAGLIAFERRI shall be the Head of Mission for the period from 1 July 2020 until 30 September 2020.’;

| (2) | in Article 13(1), the sixth subparagraph is replaced by the following:
  ‘The financial reference amount intended to cover the expenditure of EUBAM Libya from 1 January 2019 until 30 June 2021 shall be EUR 60 038 863,03’; |
| --- | --- |

(2)

in Article 13(1), the sixth subparagraph is replaced by the following:

‘The financial reference amount intended to cover the expenditure of EUBAM Libya from 1 January 2019 until 30 June 2021 shall be EUR 60 038 863,03’;

| (3) | in Article 16, the second paragraph is replaced by the following:
  ‘It shall apply until 30 June 2021.’. |
| --- | --- |

(3)

in Article 16, the second paragraph is replaced by the following:

‘It shall apply until 30 June 2021.’.

Article 2

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

Done at Brussels, 29 June 2020.

For the Council

The President

A. METELKO-ZGOMBIĆ

---

(1)  Council Decision 2013/233/CFSP of 22 May 2013 on the European Union Integrated Border Management Assistance Mission in Libya (EUBAM Libya) (OJ L 138, 24.5.2013, p. 15).

1

(2)  Council Decision (CFSP) 2018/2009 of 17 December 2018 amending and extending Decision 2013/233/CFSP on the European Union Integrated Border Management Assistance Mission in Libya (EUBAM Libya) (OJ L 322, 18.12.2018, p. 25).

2

(3)  Political and Security Committee Decision (CFSP) 2016/1634 of 30 August 2016 on the appointment of the Head of Mission of the European Union Integrated Border Management Assistance Mission in Libya (EUBAM Libya) (EUBAM Libya/1/2016) (OJ L 243, 10.9.2016, p. 10).

3

(4)  Political and Security Committee Decision (CFSP) 2019/2077 of 28 November 2019 extending the mandate of the Head of Mission of the European Union Integrated Border Management Assistance Mission in Libya (EUBAM Libya) (EUBAM Libya/1/2019) (OJ L 316, 6.12.2019, p. 32).

4

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| 30.6.2020 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | L 207/34 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

30.6.2020

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

L 207/34

---

COUNCIL DECISION (CFSP) 2020/904

of 29 June 2020

amending Decision (CFSP) 2017/1424 as regards the expiry date for support of OSCE activities relating to the reduction of small arms, light weapons and conventional ammunition in the Republic of North Macedonia and in Georgia

THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,

Having regard to the Treaty on European Union, and in particular Articles 28(1) and 31(1) thereof,

Having regard to the proposal from the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy,

Whereas:

| (1) | On 4 August 2017 the Council adopted Decision (CFSP) 2017/1424 (1), which provides for a 36‐month implementation period from the date of conclusion of the financing agreement referred to in Article 3(3) of that Decision, for the activities referred to in Article 1 thereof. |
| --- | --- |

(1)

On 4 August 2017 the Council adopted Decision (CFSP) 2017/1424 (1), which provides for a 36‐month implementation period from the date of conclusion of the financing agreement referred to in Article 3(3) of that Decision, for the activities referred to in Article 1 thereof.

| (2) | The financing agreement with the Secretariat of the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), which is the implementing entity for Decision (CFSP) 2017/1424, was signed on 7 September 2017 and expires on 6 September 2020. |
| --- | --- |

(2)

The financing agreement with the Secretariat of the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), which is the implementing entity for Decision (CFSP) 2017/1424, was signed on 7 September 2017 and expires on 6 September 2020.

| (3) | On 27 April 2020, the OSCE Forum for Security Co‐operation requested a no‐cost six‐month extension of the implementation period of Decision (CFSP) 2017/1424 until 6 March 2021, due to the COVID‐19 pandemic and restrictions on international travel. |
| --- | --- |

(3)

On 27 April 2020, the OSCE Forum for Security Co‐operation requested a no‐cost six‐month extension of the implementation period of Decision (CFSP) 2017/1424 until 6 March 2021, due to the COVID‐19 pandemic and restrictions on international travel.

| (4) | The continuation of the activities referred to in Article 1 of Decision (CFSP) 2017/1424 does not have any implication as regards financial resources until 6 March 2021. |
| --- | --- |

(4)

The continuation of the activities referred to in Article 1 of Decision (CFSP) 2017/1424 does not have any implication as regards financial resources until 6 March 2021.

| (5) | Decision (CFSP) 2017/1424 should be amended accordingly, |
| --- | --- |

(5)

Decision (CFSP) 2017/1424 should be amended accordingly,

HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:

Article 1

Decision (CFSP) 2017/1424 is amended as follows:

| (1) | the title is replaced by the following:
  ‘Council Decision (CFSP) 2017/1424 of 4 August 2017 in support of OSCE activities to reduce the risk of illicit trafficking and excessive accumulation of small arms and light weapons and conventional ammunition in the Republic of North Macedonia and in Georgia’; |
| --- | --- |

(1)

the title is replaced by the following:

‘Council Decision (CFSP) 2017/1424 of 4 August 2017 in support of OSCE activities to reduce the risk of illicit trafficking and excessive accumulation of small arms and light weapons and conventional ammunition in the Republic of North Macedonia and in Georgia’;

| (2) | Article 5(2) is replaced by the following:

  ‘2.   This Decision shall expire on 6 March 2021.’. |
| --- | --- |

(2)

Article 5(2) is replaced by the following:

‘2.   This Decision shall expire on 6 March 2021.’.

Article 2

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

Done at Brussels, 29 June 2020.

For the Council

The President

A. METELKO-ZGOMBIĆ

---

(1)  Council Decision (CFSP) 2017/1424 of 4 August 2017 in support of OSCE activities to reduce the risk of illicit trafficking and excessive accumulation of small arms and light weapons and conventional ammunition in the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia and Georgia (OJ L 204, 5.8.2017, p. 82).

1

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| 30.6.2020 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | L 207/35 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

30.6.2020

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

L 207/35

---

COUNCIL DECISION (CFSP) 2020/905

of 29 June 2020

amending Decision (CFSP) 2017/1428 in support of the implementation of the Maputo Action Plan for the implementation of the 1997 Convention on the Prohibition of the Use, Stockpiling, Production and Transfer of Anti-Personnel Mines and on their Destruction

THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,

Having regard to the Treaty on European Union, and in particular Articles 28(1) and 31(1) thereof,

Having regard to the proposal from the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy,

Whereas:

| (1) | On 4 August 2017 the Council adopted Decision (CFSP) 2017/1428 (1), which provides for a 36-month implementation period from the date of conclusion of the financing agreement referred to in Article 3(3) of that Decision, for the activities referred to in Article 1 thereof. |
| --- | --- |

(1)

On 4 August 2017 the Council adopted Decision (CFSP) 2017/1428 (1), which provides for a 36-month implementation period from the date of conclusion of the financing agreement referred to in Article 3(3) of that Decision, for the activities referred to in Article 1 thereof.

| (2) | The financing agreement with the Implementation Support Unit of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Use, Stockpiling, Production and Transfer of Anti-Personnel Mines and on Their Destruction (the ‘ISU’), represented by the Geneva International Centre for Humanitarian Demining, which is the implementing agency for Decision (CFSP) 2017/1428, was signed on 30 October 2017 and expires on 29 October 2020. |
| --- | --- |

(2)

The financing agreement with the Implementation Support Unit of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Use, Stockpiling, Production and Transfer of Anti-Personnel Mines and on Their Destruction (the ‘ISU’), represented by the Geneva International Centre for Humanitarian Demining, which is the implementing agency for Decision (CFSP) 2017/1428, was signed on 30 October 2017 and expires on 29 October 2020.

| (3) | On 16 April 2020, the ISU requested a no-cost four-month extension of the implementation period of Decision (CFSP) 2017/1428 until 28 February 2021, due to the COVID-19 pandemic and restrictions on international travel. |
| --- | --- |

(3)

On 16 April 2020, the ISU requested a no-cost four-month extension of the implementation period of Decision (CFSP) 2017/1428 until 28 February 2021, due to the COVID-19 pandemic and restrictions on international travel.

| (4) | The continuation of the activities referred to in Article 1 of Decision (CFSP) 2017/1428 does not have any implication as regards financial resources until 28 February 2021. |
| --- | --- |

(4)

The continuation of the activities referred to in Article 1 of Decision (CFSP) 2017/1428 does not have any implication as regards financial resources until 28 February 2021.

| (5) | Decision (CFSP) 2017/1428 should be amended accordingly, |
| --- | --- |

(5)

Decision (CFSP) 2017/1428 should be amended accordingly,

HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:

Article 1

Article 5 of Decision (CFSP) 2017/1428 is hereby replaced by the following:

‘Article 5

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

It shall expire on 28 February 2021.’.

Article 2

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

Done at Brussels, 29 June 2020.

For the Council

The President

A. METELKO-ZGOMBIĆ

---

(1)  Council Decision (CFSP) 2017/1428 of 4 August 2017 in support of the implementation of the Maputo Action Plan for the implementation of the 1997 Convention on the Prohibition of the Use, Stockpiling, Production and Transfer of Anti-Personnel Mines and on their Destruction (OJ L 204, 5.8.2017, p. 101).

1

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| 30.6.2020 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | L 207/36 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

30.6.2020

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

L 207/36

---

COUNCIL DECISION (CFSP) 2020/906

of 29 June 2020

amending Decision (CFSP) 2019/615 on Union support for activities leading up to the 2020 Review Conference of the Parties to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT)

THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,

Having regard to the Treaty on European Union, and in particular Article 28(1) and Article 31(1) thereof,

Having regard to the proposal from the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy,

Whereas:

| (1) | On 15 April 2019, the Council adopted Decision (CFSP) 2019/615 (1), which provides for an 18-month implementation period from the date of conclusion of the financing agreement referred to in that Decision, for the activities referred to in Article 1 thereof. |
| --- | --- |

(1)

On 15 April 2019, the Council adopted Decision (CFSP) 2019/615 (1), which provides for an 18-month implementation period from the date of conclusion of the financing agreement referred to in that Decision, for the activities referred to in Article 1 thereof.

| (2) | The United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs requested an extension until 16 April 2021 of the implementation period of Decision (CFSP) 2019/615. The requested extension is due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the temporary suspension of activities under Decision (CFSP) 2019/615. |
| --- | --- |

(2)

The United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs requested an extension until 16 April 2021 of the implementation period of Decision (CFSP) 2019/615. The requested extension is due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the temporary suspension of activities under Decision (CFSP) 2019/615.

| (3) | The continuation of the activities referred to in Article 1 of Decision (CFSP) 2019/615 can be performed without any financial resource implication until 16 April 2021. |
| --- | --- |

(3)

The continuation of the activities referred to in Article 1 of Decision (CFSP) 2019/615 can be performed without any financial resource implication until 16 April 2021.

| (4) | Decision (CFSP) 2019/615 should therefore be amended accordingly, |
| --- | --- |

(4)

Decision (CFSP) 2019/615 should therefore be amended accordingly,

HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:

Article 1

Article 5(2) of Decision (CFSP) 2019/615 is replaced by the following:

| ‘2. | This Decision shall expire 24 months after the date of conclusion of the financing agreement referred to in Article 3(3) or six months after the date of its adoption if no financing agreement has been concluded within that period.’. |
| --- | --- |

‘2.

This Decision shall expire 24 months after the date of conclusion of the financing agreement referred to in Article 3(3) or six months after the date of its adoption if no financing agreement has been concluded within that period.’.

Article 2

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

Done at Brussels, 29 June 2020.

For the Council

The President

A. METELKO-ZGOMBIĆ

---

(1)  Council Decision (CFSP) 2019/615 of 15 April 2019 on Union support for activities leading up to the 2020 Review Conference of the Parties to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) (OJ L 105, 16.4.2019, p. 25).

1

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| 30.6.2020 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | L 207/37 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

30.6.2020

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

L 207/37

---

COUNCIL DECISION (CFSP) 2020/907

of 29 June 2020

amending Decision 2014/512/CFSP concerning restrictive measures in view of Russia’s actions destabilising the situation in Ukraine

THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,

Having regard to the Treaty on European Union, and in particular Article 29 thereof,

Having regard to the proposal from the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy,

Whereas:

| (1) | On 31 July 2014, the Council adopted Decision 2014/512/CFSP (1). |
| --- | --- |

(1)

On 31 July 2014, the Council adopted Decision 2014/512/CFSP (1).

| (2) | On 19 March 2015, the European Council agreed that the necessary measures would be taken to clearly link the duration of the restrictive measures to the complete implementation of the Minsk agreements, bearing in mind that the complete implementation was foreseen for 31 December 2015. |
| --- | --- |

(2)

On 19 March 2015, the European Council agreed that the necessary measures would be taken to clearly link the duration of the restrictive measures to the complete implementation of the Minsk agreements, bearing in mind that the complete implementation was foreseen for 31 December 2015.

| (3) | On 19 December 2019, the Council adopted Decision (CFSP) 2019/2192 (2), renewing Decision 2014/512/CFSP until 31 July 2020 in order to enable it to further assess the implementation of the Minsk agreements. |
| --- | --- |

(3)

On 19 December 2019, the Council adopted Decision (CFSP) 2019/2192 (2), renewing Decision 2014/512/CFSP until 31 July 2020 in order to enable it to further assess the implementation of the Minsk agreements.

| (4) | Having assessed the implementation of the Minsk agreements, the Council considers that Decision 2014/512/CFSP should be renewed for a further six months in order to enable the Council to further assess their implementation. |
| --- | --- |

(4)

Having assessed the implementation of the Minsk agreements, the Council considers that Decision 2014/512/CFSP should be renewed for a further six months in order to enable the Council to further assess their implementation.

| (5) | Decision 2014/512/CFSP should therefore be amended accordingly, |
| --- | --- |

(5)

Decision 2014/512/CFSP should therefore be amended accordingly,

HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:

Article 1

The first subparagraph of Article 9(1) of Decision 2014/512/CFSP is replaced by the following:

‘1.   This Decision shall apply until 31 January 2021.’.

Article 2

This Decision shall enter into force on the day following that of its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union.

Done at Brussels, 29 June 2020.

For the Council

The President

A. METELKO-ZGOMBIĆ

---

(1)  Council Decision 2014/512/CFSP of 31 July 2014 concerning restrictive measures in view of Russia’s actions destabilising the situation in Ukraine (OJ L 229, 31.7.2014, p. 13).

1

(2)  Council Decision (CFSP) 2019/2192 of 19 December 2019 amending Decision 2014/512/CFSP concerning restrictive measures in view of Russia’s actions destabilising the situation in Ukraine (OJ L 330, 20.12.2019, p. 71).

2

---