EXPLANATORY MEMORANDUM

Tunisia and the European Union are bound by a Euro-Mediterranean Association Agreement that came into force in March 1998. On the basis of that agreement, an EU‑Tunisia Action Plan under the European Neighbourhood Policy (ENP) was approved by the two parties in May 2005 for a period of five years. Within this framework EU‑Tunisia relations have developed and matured substantially. The presentation in March 2010 of a Tunisian proposal to attain an advanced status[1] gave a further impetus to these relations and marked a significant deepening of relations in the areas of political relations, security, economics, trade and various sectors, and in people-to-people contacts.

When the current ENP Action Plan expired in 2010, it was deemed appropriate to negotiate and conclude a new Action Plan based on the objectives and ambitions of the joint document on privileged partnership. However, pending the conclusion of the new Action Plan, both parties agreed in September 2010 to continue to apply the 2005 Action Plan.

EU-Tunisia relations are conducted in the broader context of a region where the overall political situation has been in a state of flux since early 2011.

The Joint Communication ‘A new response to a changing neighbourhood’[2] outlined a new approach which aims at a higher level of differentiation, allowing each partner to develop its links with the EU based on its own aspirations, needs and capacities, but also on mutual accountability and the degree of commitment to the universal values of human rights, democracy and the rule of law, and the capacity to implement jointly agreed priorities. This new Action Plan clearly sets out the priority objectives of EU-Tunisia relations, while taking full account of the privileged partnership and the comprehensive scope of EU‑Tunisia relations.

The European External Action Service (EEAS), in close cooperation with the European Commission and the EU Member States, has held exploratory talks with Tunisia which have resulted in an agreement on a draft Action Plan, including the list of priority measures to be carried out under the Plan. At the last EU-Tunisia Association Council meeting on 14 April 2014 both sides noted that they had reached an agreement. The finalisation of technical consultations on each side was notified through an exchange of letters.

The new EU-Tunisia Action Plan sets out specific measures for the fulfilment of the parties’ obligations under the Euro-Mediterranean Agreement. It also provides a broader framework for further strengthening EU-Tunisia relations to achieve a significant measure of economic integration and a deepening of political cooperation, in accordance with the overall objectives of the Euro-Mediterranean Agreement. Pursuant to the European Neighbourhood Instrument Regulation[3], the Action Plan is a key point of reference for setting the priorities of the Union under the ENP. The ENP, as a single policy framework, will continue to act as a catalyst, based in particular on partnership and joint ownership, as well as performance‑driven differentiation and tailor‑made assistance. The European Commission and the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy ('High Representative') annex hereto the text of a joint proposal for a Council Decision on the position to be taken by the European Union within the EU-Tunisia Association Council on the adoption of a recommendation on the implementation of the Action Plan.

The European Commission and the High Representative therefore request the Council to adopt the attached joint proposal for a Council Decision.

2014/0316 (NLE)

Joint Proposal for a

COUNCIL DECISION

on the Union position within the Association Council set up by the Euro‑Mediterranean Agreement establishing an association between the European Communities and their Member States, of the one part, and the Republic of Tunisia, of the other part, with regard to the adoption of a recommendation on the implementation of the EU-Tunisia Action Plan implementing the privileged partnership (2013-2017)

THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,

Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, and in particular Article 217 in conjunction with Article 218(9) thereof,

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

Whereas:

(1) The Euro-Mediterranean Agreement establishing an association between the European Communities and their Member States, of the one part, and the Republic of Tunisia, of the other part, was signed on 17 July 1995 and entered into force on 1 March 1998.

(2) The Parties intend to approve the new EU-Tunisia European Neighbourhood Policy (ENP) Action Plan implementing the privileged partnership (2013-2017), which reflects the EU-Tunisia special partnership and will contribute to the implementation of the Euro-Mediterranean Agreement through the formulation and adoption of specific measures with a view to achieving its objectives,

HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION

Article 1

The Union position within the Association Council set up by the Euro-Mediterranean Agreement establishing an association between the European Communities and their Member States, of the one part, and the Republic of Tunisia, of the other part, on the implementation of the EU-Tunisia ENP Action Plan implementing the privileged partnership (2013-2017) shall be based on the draft recommendation of the Association Council annexed to this Decision.

Article 2

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

Done at Brussels,

For the Council

The President

[1] Adopted by the EU-Tunisia Association Council on 11 May 2010.

[2] COM(2011) 303 of 25.5.2011.

[3] (EU) No 232/2014 of 11.3.2014.

ANNEXES

to the

Joint Proposal for a COUNCIL DECISION

on the Union position within the Association Council set up by the Euro‑Mediterranean Agreement establishing an association between the European Communities and their Member States, of the one part, and the Republic of Tunisia, of the other part, with regard to the adoption of a recommendation on the implementation of the EU-Tunisia Action Plan implementing the privileged partnership (2013-2017)

ANNEX 1

Draft

Recommendation

on the implementation of the EU-Tunisia ENP Action Plan implementing the privileged partnership (2013-2017)

The EU-Tunisia Association Council,

Having regard to the Euro-Mediterranean Agreement establishing an association between the European Communities and their Member States, of the one part, and the Republic of Tunisia, of the other part, and in particular Article 80 thereof,

Whereas:

1. Article 80 of the Euro-Mediterranean Agreement authorised the Association Council to make appropriate recommendations for the purposes of attaining the objectives of the Agreement.

2. Pursuant to Article 90 of the Euro-Mediterranean Agreement, the Parties shall take any general or specific measures required to fulfil their obligations under the Agreement and shall see to it that the objectives set out in the Agreement are attained.

3. The Parties to the Euro-Mediterranean Agreement have agreed on the text of the EU‑Tunisia European Neighbourhood Policy (ENP) Action Plan implementing the privileged partnership (2013-2017).

4. This EU-Tunisia ENP Action Plan will support the implementation of the Agreement through the formulation and adoption, by agreement between the Parties, of specific measures to provide practical guidance for such implementation.

5. The Action Plan serves the dual purpose of setting out specific measures for the fulfilment of the Parties’ obligations set out in the Euro-Mediterranean Agreement, and of providing a broader framework for further strengthening EU-Tunisia relations to achieve a significant measure of economic integration and a deepening of political cooperation, in accordance with the overall objectives of the Euro‑Mediterranean Agreement,

HAS ADOPTED THE FOLLOWING RECOMMENDATION:

Sole Article

The Association Council recommends that the Parties implement the EU-Tunisia ENP Action Plan implementing the privileged partnership (2013-2017) annexed hereto, in so far as such implementation is directed towards attaining the objectives of the Euro‑Mediterranean Agreement establishing an association between the European Communities and their Member States, of the one part, and the Republic of Tunisia, of the other part.

Done at [...]

For the Association Council

The President

ANNEX 2

EU-Tunisia Relations: a privileged partnership 2013-2017 Action Plan Summary

I. INTRODUCTION

Since 14 January 2011 Tunisia has turned a new page in its modern history thanks to a peaceful revolution in favour of human dignity and freedom, whose sole mover was the Tunisian people. This revolution has laid the foundations for the development of true democracy based on the rule of law, human rights and fundamental freedoms.

These values, shared with the European Union, have inspired the two parties to raise their relations to a higher, more strategic level, namely a privileged partnership. Thanks to the revolution, radically new vistas have opened up in relations between Tunisia and the EU. The EU is determined to make a long-term commitment to support Tunisia's democratic transition, aware that success will have beneficial repercussions on both Tunisia's prosperity and that of the region as a whole. Support for the Tunisian transition is a historic opportunity for the EU to respond practically, effectively and positively to the challenges posed by both Tunisia and the ‘Arab Spring’, in accordance with the revamped Neighbourhood Policy of 2011.

A new neighbourhood policy

In response to the historic challenges facing its neighbourhood, the EU has formulated a new approach with the aim of offering solutions better suited to the rapid development of its partner countries and their need for reforms to establish and consolidate healthy democracies, support sustainable and inclusive economic growth and manage crossborder links and flows.

This new approach[1] is based on mutual accountability and a shared commitment to the universal values of human rights, democracy and the rule of law. It offers greater differentiation in the formulation of support, in line with the ambitions of the partner country for closer ties with the EU, with its specific needs and capacity, and with progress in implementing reforms, consolidating democracy and the rule of law and upholding human rights and fundamental freedoms. It will also translate this further deepening of relations into greater economic integration and a deepening of political cooperation in the areas of governance, security, conflict resolution and the adoption of joint initiatives in international forums on issues of common interest.

The new Neighbourhood Policy approach is designed: (a) to give greater support to partners committed to consolidating democracy and upholding the rule of law, human rights, fundamental freedoms and gender equality; (b) to support the development of a sustainable and inclusive economy that reduces social and regional inequalities, creates jobs and improves living standards; (c) to establish a closer partnership with the people and civil societies of partner countries.

New priorities for Tunisia

The Tunisian revolution brings with it the hope of a better life for Tunisians, marking a break with an outdated development model long marred by structural economic and social cleavages.

The new approach is thus based on the building of a new society which aims to be inclusive and balanced, founded on good governance and transparency and the equitable distribution of wealth.

Priority is given to employment and social cohesion, regional development, security and stability, and transitional justice with a view to anchoring the democratic transition in a long-term process.

These priorities also underline the commitment to step up the reforms necessary to establish democratic institutions that respect human rights and fundamental rights and confirm Tunisia's desire to build an open and modern society, a plural cultural space and dynamic social fabric.

Economic and social reforms will also be stepped up in order to revive the economy and promote job-creating sustainable growth based on knowledge and innovation.

Efforts will focus on the development of a just, solidarity-inspired social policy that is beneficial to all categories and regions and on the modernisation of the fabric of the economy, with a greater focus on more innovative, environmentally friendly activities with a high technological content, and on improved competitiveness and a more attractive business climate to foster private initiative and public-private partnerships.

A privileged partnership

The conditions are thus right for Tunisia and the EU to raise their relations to a higher, more strategic level and step up integration, in view of their shared greater ambitions. Rapprochement with the European Union constitutes a permanent and fundamental foreign-policy choice by Tunisia[2], in parallel with the promotion of Maghreb integration and consolidation of relations with the Arab, Mediterranean and African countries. Tunisia and the European Union also share the view that greater economic liberalisation and economic and social integration are a source of growth and employment and so promote inclusive development and shared prosperity.

With the privileged partnership Tunisia wishes to advance to a new level of integration with the EU which is as high as possible.

This new status reflects the desire of both parties to be part of a process of rapprochement that transcends the limits of free trade and includes the mutually beneficial effective mobility of people and increased knowledge-sharing.

It is essential to take account of the human and scientific dimension to this partnership in order to bring civil society, private operators, researchers and students, and local and regional authorities closer together, something that will send a strong political signal to both parties' citizens and business communities.

This jointly prepared evolving action plan for 2013-2017 constitutes the reference framework for identifying the priorities for strengthening relations between the two parties at all levels (political, economic, scientific, social, cultural and human).

In this flexible framework, and on the basis of the implementation of the privileged partnership in accordance with Article 8 of the Treaty on European Union and of the aspirations of the EU and Tunisia to deepen their relations, the parties agree to start canvassing the possibility of reaching a new agreement governing their relations.

Key elements of the privileged partnership between the European Union and Tunisia

Closer relations between the EU and Tunisia in the framework of a privileged partnership will take the following forms:

(a) Deeper political cooperation. The parties hope to give a fresh impetus to political dialogue and cooperation. In particular, it will involve greater high-level political dialogue, parliamentary cooperation, cooperation on security issues, cooperation on democracy and the rule of law, including gender equality, human rights and fundamental freedoms, and greater cooperation with the Council of Europe and other international organisations. It also includes enhanced cooperation on security, justice, border management and the fight against organised crime.

(b) Greater social and economic integration with the European Union in order to build a Common Economic Area. The privileged partnership is also designed to achieve a deeper economic, social and human integration of the partners. It reflects the challenges faced by Tunisia in the transition to democracy, including economic recovery and the imperatives of solidarity and sustainable development. With an eye to the development of trade and economic links, it is planned to conclude a deep and comprehensive free trade agreement (DCFTA) between Tunisia and the European Union that will contribute to Tunisia's gradual integration into the EU's internal market EU and the eventual establishment of a Common Economic Area.

Tunisia wants to work towards greater regulatory harmonisation through a gradual approximation of legislation. In accordance with this Action Plan, Tunisia and the EU will jointly determine which sectors will have priority for approximation. Having identified the discrepancies between Tunisian legislation and the acquis communautaire, Tunisia will set out the approximation objectives in relation to the acquis communautaire in a national harmonisation programme, while the EU will provide accompanying measures to support the achievement of these objectives.

This integration will be underpinned by an enhanced dialogue on the socio-economic reforms that will embrace economic performance, the promotion of small and medium enterprises (SMEs), the development of an integrated employment strategy and social inclusion, together with extensive sectoral cooperation covering key areas such as energy, transport, industry, agriculture, the environment and climate change (see Annex 2).

(c) A closer partnership between peoples. A privileged partnership is unimaginable without the strengthening of ties between peoples through closer links and direct cooperation between individuals and organisations. In this context cooperation and exchanges in the areas of education, vocational training, employment, research and innovation, health, culture and youth play a key role. The dialogue will also cover migration, mobility and security with the aim of concluding a mobility partnership establishing a framework for balanced and responsible cooperation on the movement of people, management of legal migration, the links between migration and development, protection of migrants' rights and efforts to stop illegal migration, immigration-related organised crime and readmission.

Similarly, the strengthening of relations between the EU and Tunisia involves a broad mobilisation of all non-state actors and members of civil society, who have an important role to play in making democratisation a success. Consultation mechanisms will be established in order to ensure that civil society fully assumes its role as interlocutor in the dialogue with the authorities and the European institutions, in particular in terms of finalising and implementing this Action Plan.

A new method

The qualitative leap that the EU and Tunisia propose to make in their relations will be based on a number of principles and tools that will help ensure that the objectives are achieved

Specific, clear targeted commitments over a period of 5 years. Deeper relations imply that the partners enter into major commitments in a few priority sectors in order to meet the challenges of the democratic transition: economic recovery, promotion of SMEs and sustainable and inclusive development, employment, improved living conditions and less inequality; the consolidation of the rule of law, good governance and democratic pluralism, independence of the judiciary, respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, gender equality, reform of the security sector, independence of the media and support for civil society. The privileged partnership should also help bring our societies together in the broadest sense, through an expanded intercultural dialogue.

Participation in EU agencies and programmes. Another tool contributing to the goal of greater integration between Tunisia and the EU is Tunisia's participation in a number of EU agencies and programmes with a legal basis providing for the participation of non-member countries. The Action Plan sets out the practical steps to take here.

More ambitious technical and financial support, tailored to Tunisia’s priorities and in line with the new guidelines of the European Neighbourhood Policy, that will support the implementation of the objectives of the Association Agreement in the framework of the EU's post-2014 financial perspectives. The privileged partnership raises the expectation that the EU will provide an appropriate level of financial assistance to Tunisia matching the scale of the reforms, its specific needs, its capacity and progress in implementing reforms.

The EU has already confirmed its decision to increase significantly its support for Tunisia, pledging at least €400 million for the period 2011-2013 (compared with the €240 million which had been set aside before the revolution). The funds set aside will be used primarily to accompany the reforms necessary to establish a democratic state (support for the organisation of elections, reform of the security sector, the judiciary and the media, and assistance with the process of transitional justice and the upholding of human rights and fundamental freedoms) and to pursue economic recovery and strengthen social cohesion (economic reforms, promotion of employment and regional development, and efforts to reduce social exclusion, inequality and poverty, institutional capacity-building, etc.).

In addition, some Member States, the European Investment Bank (EIB) and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) will provide substantial support, in particular for investment, infrastructure, private-sector support and employment, inter alia via their G8 commitments (Deauville Partnership). The programming of this support in line with the relevant procedures will take into account commitments made under the Action Plan and any other relevant instrument, including the findings of the EU‑Tunisia Task Force of 28 and 29 September 2011.

Flexibility and interim evaluation. The five-year Action Plan may be reviewed by the Association Council in the light of progress in implementation or of any new requirements arising from circumstances in Tunisia or the European Union. The bodies set up under the Association Agreement will make appropriate proposals.

Monitoring implementation of the Action Plan. The introduction of reforms in several key sectors will require the setting of clear targets and the availability of adequate resources. To ensure the best possible implementation and link the objectives and progress made in achieving these objectives with the aid provided, there will be regular monitoring by the Association Committee and the subcommittees established under the Association Agreement and through each party's progress reports.

The two parties will review the subcommittees with a view to adjusting their membership and responsibilities to the new ambitions of the privileged status.

II. ACTION PLAN

Wishing to give this Action Plan a character that is both strategic and operational, the parties agree to focus their cooperation on a limited number of areas and objectives, as summarised in the table in Annex 1.

In addition, the achievement of the Action Plan's objectives will call for an enhanced dialogue on the socio-economic reforms, including employment policy, social inclusion and strategies to revive the economy with a view to sustainable, knowledge-based growth, and wide-ranging sectoral cooperation covering key areas such as energy, transport, industry, agriculture, tourism, skills development, the environment and climate change

This is the reference document for implementation of the Association Agreement (AA). It covers all the areas covered by the AA and provides a framework for the overall cooperation between Tunisia and the EU, including the work of the Association Committee and subcommittees. The subcommittees have the task of formulating, on the basis of the priorities identified in the Action Plan, the specific actions needed to pursue these goals.

In the period ahead, the parties will focus their priorities on the following areas:

Rule of law and democracy

1. Establishing a democratic electoral system, in particular by consolidating the independence and functioning of the independent electoral commission responsible for the management and organisation of elections.

2. Ensuring the independence of the judiciary, increasing its professionalism and efficiency (access to justice, duration of trials), and upholding human rights, the presumption of innocence and the right to a fair trial.

3. Reforming the security sector as part of a root-and-branch reform to ensure compliance with international standards on the rule of law, human rights and international law.

4. Strengthening the protection of human rights, including the rights of women and children.

5. Reforming the media and professionalisation of the sector.

6. Strengthening the role and capacity of civil society.

Cooperation on migration, mobility and security

7. Dialogue on migration, mobility and security and conclusion of a mobility partnership.

Greater social and economic integration

8. Economic reform for inclusive growth, competitiveness and a better business and investment climate.

9. Deepening economic integration and conclusion of a deep and comprehensive free trade agreement and approximation with the EU acquis.

10. Developing skills and access to knowledge and innovation.

11. Employment, social cohesion and integration, and regional and local development.

12. Agricultural and rural development.

Sustainable development

13. Developing and implementing strategies and programmes for sustainable development, including improved environmental protection pursuant to the intention set out in the Commission’s Communication on the Multiannual Financial Framework of June 2011[3] to raise to at least 20 % the share of the EU's budget allocated to the climate.

The table in Annex 1 provides a reference framework for reviewing these priorities, and also contains indicators, a timetable for implementation and the resources mobilised.

A. Political cooperation

I. Political and strategic dialogue and cooperation

1. Enhanced political and strategic dialogue

Specific activities/objectives:

· strengthen the political dialogue, in particular through the organisation of EU‑Tunisia summits on an ad hoc basis and regular meetings at ministerial and senior-official levels;

· promote the ad hoc participation of Tunisian representatives in informal meetings of the Council committees and groups responsible for EU foreign policy and common security;

· increase consultation in multilateral forums (United Nations, etc.) in order to harmonise and coordinate policy positions on issues of common interest;

· cooperate in diplomatic matters, notably by establishing cooperation relations and exchanges of experience between Tunisia's Institut Diplomatique pour la Formation et les Études and the academic institutions and diplomatic academies of the Member States.

2. Parliamentary cooperation

Specific activities/objectives:

· develop parliamentary cooperation, in particular through support to the Parliamentary Assembly, establish a joint parliamentary committee of the European Parliament and the Tunisian Parliament, strengthen cooperation and partnership between the Tunisian Parliament and the Parliamentary Assembly of the Union for the Mediterranean and exchanges between political parties and parliamentary groups in Tunisia and the EU.

3. Step up dialogue and cooperation on conflict prevention and crisis management.

Specific activities/objectives:

· step up EU-Tunisia dialogue and cooperation in the context of the Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP) and the Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP);

· help develop the partnership for peace and security in Africa with due consideration for the interests of both parties;

· increase Tunisia's participation in the Mediterranean Partnership of the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) through the contact group and bilateral contributions on a voluntary basis.

4. Closer cooperation on the non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) and their means of delivery, controls on transfers of conventional arms and prevention of the dissemination of small arms and light weapons.

Specific activities/objectives:

Weapons of mass destruction and dual-use goods:

· cooperate on and contribute to the full implementation of existing international obligations to stop the proliferation of WMDs and their delivery systems, and support the role of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA);

· in accordance with the parties' international commitments, in particular the relevant international resolutions, including UN Security Council Resolution 1540/2004, continue implementation of a system for effective control of dual use goods at national level and criminalisation of the proliferation of WMDs and their delivery systems;

· take the necessary steps for the signing, ratification or accession to other international treaties and other treaties and instruments to prevent the proliferation of WMDs and their delivery systems;

· adopt national legislation to criminalise the proliferation of WMDs and their delivery systems;

· with the support of the EU, set up an effective national system of controls on the export and transit of goods linked to WMDs, including monitoring the end use of dual-use technologies;

Conventional weapons:

· develop the regular political dialogue on transfers of conventional arms and strengthen cooperation aimed at preventing illicit trafficking;

· step up consultations on the adoption of a UN treaty to establish common standards for the global trade in conventional arms;

· with the support of the EU, set up an effective national system of controls on the export of conventional arms and munitions, including controls on end users.

5. Cooperation on civil protection

Specific activities/objectives:

· pursue regional cooperation on disaster prevention, preparedness, training, detection, early warning and response, including man-made and natural disasters and technological risks;

· establish operational arrangements between Tunisian and European Commission bodies for cooperation with the Monitoring and Information Centre (MIC) when the EU civil protection mechanism has been activated.

II. Democracy, the rule of law and governance

6. Alignment of Tunisia's legislative framework on that of the EU/Council of Europe in these areas

Specific activities/objectives:

· strengthen cooperation between Tunisia and the Council of Europe on the promotion of human rights, the rule of law and democracy, particularly in view of Tunisia's possible accession to some Council of Europe conventions.

7. Strengthen institutions guaranteeing democracy and the rule of law

Specific activities/objectives:

· adopt constitutional, legislative and regulatory provisions to strengthen the rule of law (covering the role of parliament, the independence of political parties, etc.);

· build the administrative capacity of democratic institutions and actors (parliament, political parties, etc.);

· adopt a democratic electoral framework, establish an independent electoral commission and build the capacity of the organisations of Tunisian civil society to carry out election monitoring, and adopt regulations on election monitoring (including by international actors).

8. Strengthen the independence and efficiency of the judiciary and efforts to improve prison conditions

Specific activities/objectives:

· reform and modernise the justice sector to ensure its independence, impartiality, professionalism, accountability and a better functioning, drawing, when appropriate, on the standards developed by the United Nations and the Council of Europe;

· as part of the reform of the justice system, provide technical support for Tunisia's efforts to modernise the sector, including through computerisation of the administration, better access to justice and capacity-building for stakeholders;

· establish mechanisms/actions for transitional justice;

· reform the criminal code and code of criminal procedures to bring them into line with international law in the field of human rights;

· step up efforts to improve conditions of detention and imprisonment, especially for minors, and safeguard the rights of detainees, including through training and capacity building for those responsible for enforcing the law.

III. Dialogue and cooperation on issues relating to human rights and fundamental freedoms

9. Dialogue and cooperation on issues relating to human rights and fundamental freedoms

Specific activities/objectives:

· strengthen EU-Tunisia dialogue and cooperation on the upholding and promotion of human rights and fundamental rights;

· strengthen dialogue on cooperation within international institutions, above all the UN.

10. Implementation of international conventions on human rights and cooperation with the special procedures and mechanisms of the UN

Specific activities/objectives:

· uphold the principle of the primacy of ratified international conventions over domestic law;

· gradually complete the process of transposing and implementing the international conventions ratified by Tunisia with the aim of lifting any reservations[4];

· cooperate with the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights and with the UN's special mechanisms on human rights, in particular following the Tunisian authorities' standing invitation made in February 2011;

· support Tunisia's implementation of the recommendations of the Universal Periodic Review of the UN Human Rights Council (May 2012) that it has accepted.

11. Ensure the freedoms of expression, association, and assembly, in accordance with the UN International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR)

Specific activities/objectives:

· strengthen freedom of association and peaceful assembly and freedom of expression and opinion on the basis of the relevant recommendations of the UN Committee of the ICCPR and the UN Human Rights Council's Universal Periodic Review, including those concerning NGOs and non-state actors;

· improve the new press code to bring it into line with international standards; abolish in particular custodial sentences for press offences and defamation, and guarantee the protection of sources;

· ensure free and unrestricted access to new technologies, including the internet, and guarantee freedom of expression and dissemination of information on the internet, in accordance with international law;

· foster exchanges and cooperation initiatives between the Tunisian and EU voluntary sectors.

12. Promotion and protection of the rights of women and children

Specific activities/objectives:

· implement the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) and the principle of equal rights and civil, political, economic, social and cultural liberties;

· consolidate the legislative framework with a view to combating all forms of discrimination, promoting gender equality and increasing the participation and integration of women in public, political, cultural and economic life;

· continue action on gender equality and combating discrimination and violence against women in line with the relevant international conventions; strengthen the legislative framework to provide better protection for women against all forms of violence, including domestic violence;

· strengthen the role of civil society in promoting and protecting the rights of women and children and encourage networking in the field;

· consolidate children's rights on the basis of the recommendations of the United Nations Children's Rights Committee, in particular the protection of children against all forms of violence and against neglect and exploitation.

13. Abolition of the death penalty and combating torture and all forms of discrimination

Specific activities/objectives:

· maintain the de facto moratorium on executions;

· continue the dialogue on revision of the Criminal Code with a view to abolition of the death penalty;

· consider joining the cross-regional initiative on the death penalty, supported by the EU within the framework of the United Nations General Assembly;

· following Tunisia's ratification of the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, provide technical support for the implementation of the Protocol and its instruments, including support for setting up the national preventive mechanism provided for in the Protocol.

14. Promotion of the role of civil society and protection of human rights defenders

Specific activities/objectives:

· strengthen the participation of all components of Tunisian society in public and political life, in particular by consolidating the guarantees of fundamental freedoms and setting up mechanisms for consultation and dialogue;

· step up the involvement of civil society actors and stakeholders in proposing, formulating and monitoring the implementation of constitutional and legislative reforms.

15. Cooperation on the universal application of the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court.

Specific activities/objectives:

· adopt national legislation implementing the Rome Statute and exchanges of experiences about the legal adjustments required for the implementation of the Rome Statute;

· support the training of judges, lawyers and the security forces in matters falling within the jurisdiction of the International Criminal Court (ICC), in particular study of ICC and national case-law in the areas covered by the ICC.

IV. Regional and continent-wide cooperation and initiatives

16. Support implementation of regional integration initiatives and projects

Specific activities/objectives:

· promote intraregional, including intra-Maghreb, integration, especially within the Arab Maghreb Union and the Agadir Process;

· step up cooperation within Maghreb regional institutions, the 5 + 5 Dialogue, the Mediterranean Forum, the Union for the Mediterranean, the Africa‑EU Partnership and regional organisations such as the Sahara and Sahel Observatory;

· start a dialogue on the possibilities of triangular cooperation involving Tunisian and European public and private stakeholders to stimulate development in Africa.

V. Justice and security cooperation

17. Development of legislation on legal and judicial cooperation between states and provision of appropriate accompanying measures

Specific activities/objectives:

· undertake as soon as possible analysis of the main international conventions, particularly those drawn up in the framework of the Hague Conference on private international law relating to family law;

· continue to encourage practical solutions to prevent, manage and settle parental responsibility disputes, including the question of children of separated mixed couples;

· pursue the dialogue on international child protection and family-law issues in the context of Tunisia’s participation in the Judicial Conference on Cross‑Frontier Family Issues (the Malta Process);

· explore the possibility of signing, ratifying and implementing the main international conventions, such as: the 1965 Hague Convention on the Service Abroad of Judicial and Extrajudicial Documents in Civil or Commercial Matters; the 1970 Hague Convention on Taking of Evidence Abroad in Civil or Commercial Matters; the 1980 Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction; the 1996 Convention on Parental Responsibility and the Protection of Children.

18. Consolidation of judicial cooperation and approximation of the two parties' legal systems

Specific activities/objectives:

· take stock of EU-Tunisia judicial cooperation and take measures to step it up;

· continue implementation of measures provided for in the UN Conventions against transnational organised crime (UNTOC) and against Corruption (UNCAC);

· set up a support programme for the modernisation and independence of the judiciary in Tunisia.

19. Strengthening cooperation between the judicial and police authorities of Tunisia and the Member States

Specific activities/objectives:

· take stock of EU-Tunisia cooperation with a view to deepening cooperation, especially through exchanges of experiences between training centres in the EU Member States and their Tunisian counterparts on legal and security matters;

· ensure implementation of measures contained in UN Conventions.

20. Stepping up the fight against corruption

Specific activities/objectives:

· exchanges of information on European and Tunisian legislation and on the implementation of international instruments, exchanges of best practices in the fight against corruption and the development of cooperation in this area, also as part of the implementation of the 2003 UN Convention on corruption;

· support the efforts of the Tunisian authorities to stamp out corruption, including the establishment of a specialist judicial centre to handle corruption cases at the Tunis Court of First Instance;

· investigate the possibility of supporting the implementation of Legislative Decree No 120 of 14 November 2011 on the anti-corruption body;

· continue to provide support, through mutual assistance in criminal matters, for Tunisia's efforts to recover the assets fraudulently acquired by the ousted president and his family, which are currently frozen under the jurisdiction of EU Member States, pursuant to the relevant international conventions, including the 2003 UN Convention against corruption.

21. Cooperation to combat terrorism and organised crime

Specific activities/objectives:

· strengthen cooperation between judicial and security agencies in the fight against terrorism, organised crime and cybercrime, including on the basis of the ratification and implementation of relevant international instruments, by encouraging the participation of Tunisian officials in specific and specialised training courses in the prevention and fight against terrorism in the EU Member States;

· cooperate through the exchange of best practices and technical exchanges and continue outreach efforts to make young people aware of the dangers of violent radicalisation and extremism in all its forms and instil in them a culture of openness, tolerance and solidarity, including solidarity with the victims of terrorism, and protect them against involvement in crime, including terrorist acts;

· support Tunisia's efforts to ensure that human rights are upheld in the fight against terrorism, also in the framework of the security-sector reforms.

22. International instruments to fight organised crime

Specific activities/objectives:

· exchange information about, and experiences of, implementation of the 2000 UN Convention against Transnational Organised Crime (and its additional protocols);

· formulate legislation that is compliant with the relevant international standards and instruments in the fight against organised crime.

23. Development of methods and means to combat trafficking in human beings and to protect its victims

Specific activities/objectives:

· adopt a legislative framework to combat trafficking in human beings and to protect the victims of trafficking;

· capacity-building of the various judicial and security professions, including targeted specialist training activities to fight against trafficking in human beings and protect victims of trafficking;

· initiate a dialogue to agree a common approach to tackling trafficking that targets recruiters, transporters, operators, other intermediaries, clients and beneficiaries;

· step up support to the most vulnerable groups (women and children);

· develop measures to prevent illegal immigration aimed, in particular, at the most vulnerable groups, including the provision of support, including European support, to promote co-development, the creation of livelihoods and employment and improved living conditions and environments in areas of high migration.

VI. Cooperation on migration, mobility and security

24. Protection of asylum seekers and refugees

Specific activities/objectives:

· cooperation between Tunisia and the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) so that the UNHCR can fulfil its role;

· development and implementation by Tunisia of legislation on asylum based on international principles and standards and of an administration tasked with identifying, protecting, assisting and hosting asylum seekers and refugees;

· EU support to help Tunisia develop and implement domestic legislation and build the capacity of an administration to deal with asylum matters, including advice, training and technical support;

· EU-Tunisia exchange of information on respective asylum-related policies, laws and situations;

25. Cooperation on migration, mobility and security;

· open a dialogue on migration, mobility and security with a view to conclusion of a Mobility Partnership; implement the measures provided for in the Mobility Partnership.

VII. Drugs

26. Step up action to combat drug-trafficking and drug addiction

Specific activities/objectives:

· support implementation of the relevant principles of the 1967, 1971 and 1988 UN Conventions and the principles recorded in the UN General Assembly Special Session;

· launch special training measures for drug enforcement bodies;

· development and implementation of prevention, treatment and rehabilitation programmes for drug addicts.

VIII. Money laundering, economic and financial crimes

27. Strengthening cooperation efforts to combat money laundering

Specific activities/objectives:

· continue development of an effective legal framework for preventing and combating money laundering and the financing of terrorism in accordance with the recommendations of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF); identify requirements for administrative and technical assistance and training;

· step up cooperation between police forces and with international organisations, such as the FATF and the Council of Europe, and also with corresponding services of the EU Member States, particularly exchanges of information between European and Tunisian financial intelligence units (FIU).

B. Social and economic integration: towards a common economic area

Pillar 1 - Macroeconomic framework and public finances

28. Stabilising the macroeconomic framework

· revitalise and speed up economic growth;

· make the economy more resilient by consolidating macroeconomic fundamentals, particularly as regards foreign payments and the national budget;

· ensure the sustainability of the public debt and external national debt;

· continue implementation of the conclusions of the study on improving the management of the public debt through supervision of treasury issues and ensuring proper management of the state's liquid assets.

29. Consolidating public-finance management

· start canvassing reform of the food and energy subsidy system with the aim of targeting these transfers on disadvantaged groups;

· continue implementation of budget management by objectives;

· improve budgetary transparency by developing in the medium term the publication of consolidated accounts of financial transactions of the state, local authorities, social security funds and government administrative enterprises.

30. Continued public administration reform

· continue reform of the tax system to make it fairer;

· continue modernising the tax administration (training, computerisation and use of new communication technologies, tax administration governance and information systems);

· continue and deepen the dialogue on the principles of good tax governance, including the EU code of conduct on business taxation, to ensure fair conditions as Tunisia gradually becomes integrated into the internal market;

· promote exchanges of experience and know-how on EU Member States' tax systems.

31. Consolidating the transparency and effectiveness of procedures for the award of public contracts and concessions (this action will be discussed by the Internal Market Subcommittee)

· continue alignment of Tunisian legislation on international and European standards to ensure a gradual opening-up, efficiency, responsibility, transparency, equal access to information and competition;

· continue modernisation of the procedures for administering, managing and monitoring the performance of public contracts, in particular implementation of electronic procedures for public procurement;

· continue effective training programmes for buyers/authorising officers of national and local authorities, and of officials responsible for reviewing contract award and performance;

· strengthen cooperation and exchanges of experiences concerning data monitoring and management between Tunisian and European counterparts, including the National Observatory of Public Procurement and the relevant departments of the European Commission dealing with procurement;

· promote cooperation and exchanges of experience and information about dispute settlement for procurement procedures in accordance with international and European standards with a view to adapting them as necessary.

Pillar 2 - Governance, competitiveness and the business environment

2.1 Governance and administrative reform

32. Strengthening public governance

· develop a governance communications strategy;

· create participatory governance portal;

· carry out perception surveys, improve the evaluation of public policies and develop performance indicators for assessment and decision making;

· set up a national integrity system.

33. Strengthening internal financial control in the public sector

· draft a policy and strategy document on internal controls of public finances (financial management, financial control and internal auditing) with reference to international best practice and standards, including a comparative analysis of international frameworks and standards and current internal-control practice in Tunisia;

· taking into account the findings of the comparative study and strategic document, strengthen the legislative and regulatory framework and, if necessary, coordination of internal financial control within the public sector, and promote the development of adequate administrative and institutional capacity (training, guides, audit manuals, audit software, certification, etc.);

· pursue gradual harmonisation with internationally recognised standards and methodologies and with the EU's best practice concerning the control and verification of income, expenditure, assets and liabilities.

34. Strengthening verification and external audits

· gradually align the control methods of the Court of Auditors and the national audit body on international standards and on EU best practice for external audits;

· build the administrative and procedural capacity of the Court of Auditors as the State Audit Institution (SAI), targeting its role solely on external audits, making it more independent and ensuring that its budget is approved by parliament and its reports made public;

· build the institutional capacity of the High Committee for Administrative and Financial Control to coordinate control tasks (programming, control methods, tools, and so on) and monitor the relevant reports;

· build administrative capacity and develop exchanges of experience in the early detection of irregularities and fraud that could affect the allocation and management of domestic and international funds, including EU funds;

· promote project-evaluation missions and public actions and policies, and develop audit and evaluation tools;

· build capacity to control the advisability of an action, public management and 'value for money';

· set up a system to certify public auditors;

· ensure cooperation with the relevant EU institutions and bodies in the event of on-the-spot inspections related to the management and control of EU funds.

35. Promoting the alignment of statistical methods on European standards (Article 60 of the AA)

· develop a strategy for harmonisation with European concepts, classifications, standards and methods, notably in connection with economic, social and environmental statistics;

· improve the quality of statistics (also with a view to the Millennium Development Goals, sustainable development and developments in other areas) and their accessibility and clarity (dissemination of statistics and awareness of them among users), and also ensure their updating and punctuality (completeness of data transmission between Eurostat and the Tunisian statistics service);

· establish a medium-term action plan to upgrade (institutionally and legally) the Tunisian statistics service and other statistical structures, with a focus on human resources, statistical programming and production, analysis, dissemination, etc.;

· support the Tunisian statistics service in implementing a ‘quality label’ for public statistics in line with best practice at European level;

· strengthen EU-Tunisia cooperation activities in the field of statistics in order to develop the Tunisian national statistical system and ensure that it is better integrated into the international statistical system;

· participate actively in the formulation and implementation of a regional strategy (Maghreb and Mediterranean) for the development of statistics;

· promote regional and subregional cooperation and the exchange of best practices to help improve the quality of statistical data and ensure their international comparability.

36. Ongoing public administration reform

· continue improvements to the quality of administrative services and the process of reducing red tape and delays and increase e-government;

· improve relations with users and develop communications, particularly through mechanisms for feedback, opinion polls and the like;

· establish a system of participatory assessment of administrative services provided by various public bodies;

· provide proximity services to users, inter alia by extending local offices for public services, especially in regions where administrative services are thin on the ground ;

· establish the mechanisms and tools needed to ensure implementation of the Decree-Law on Access to Administrative Documents;

· help fight corruption through the implementation of whistleblowing mechanisms to denounce instances of corruption;

· promote the training of Tunisian officials in EU policies and programmes.

2.2 A knowledge-based competitive economy

37. Improving the performance and competitiveness of the Tunisian economy

· pursue structural reforms to make the economy more competitive, promote economic dialogue between Tunisia and the EU, and promote coordination of the recovery strategy in the spirit of the 2020 initiative (for sustainable growth and jobs);

· foster the structural transformation of the economy into an economy driven by high value-added sectors and improve productivity, increasing its contribution to economic growth;

· continue the industrial upgrading programme, follow up the Tunisian‑EU structuring programmes aimed at supporting business competitiveness and innovation, such as the programme to support the competitiveness of enterprises and facilitate market access (PCAM) and the project to support the system of research and innovation (PASRI), and, with EU support, speed up implementation of the agricultural upgrading programmes;

· with EU support, speed up implementation of the services upgrading programme, the setting-up of an information and monitoring system, development of a better match between supply and demand in the labour market, and closer cooperation on quality, certification, entrepreneurship, associations and networking;

· implement the government's strategy to increase private investment, including privatisation;

· develop the government's strategy to open up the infrastructure sector to private-sector participation and draft a framework law on public-private partnership.

2.3 A more attractive business environment

38. Improving the business environment

· review and strengthen the regulatory framework for investment and doing business with a view to greater simplicity, transparency and efficiency;

· set up a national investment body to act as a one-stop shop for local and foreign investors and also a sovereign investment fund;

· promote an environment conducive to business by specifically focusing on the ongoing reform of the judicial system, including court enforcement procedures, and on improving the specialist knowledge of judges and reforming bankruptcy legislation;

· establish mechanisms for observing and monitoring the administrative business environment in Tunisia and international practices;

· enhance Tunisia's attractiveness as a location for high value-added and innovative activities and support the promotion of investment in the region, including identification and development of regional potential and specific features.

39. Promoting investment and partnership and improving the anchoring of local investment

· encourage the development of partnerships between Tunisian and EU enterprises and clusters and foster technology transfers;

· mobilise local businesses around foreign investment to stimulate innovation and domestic economic development;

· promote and institutionalise cooperation between Tunisian and European business associations and support the organisation of an EU‑Tunisia economic forum.

40. Harmonisation of company law to protect all parties and facilitate business activity

· encourage alignment on European and international company law standards;

· protect shareholders in accordance with European standards and practices in this area;

· in line with European and international standards: (i) support the private sector in finalising good governance guides for different types of company and (ii) draft good governance guidelines for public entities;

· modernise the operational management of the business register and the system of publication in the official bulletin to inform third parties.

41. Adoption of international and European financial audit standards and reform of the Tunisian corporate accounting system to bring it into line with European and international accounting standards

· continue efforts to promote the quality of statutory audits;

· continue efforts to steer the development of the corporate accounting system towards the adoption of European and international accounting standards;

· ensure cooperation with the EU institutions and bodies responsible for accounting standards and the oversight of statutory audits.

42. Strengthening cooperation on business policy

· strengthen cooperation with the EU on policy to promote SMEs through the implementation of the Euro-Mediterranean Charter for Enterprise, drawing inspiration from the Small Business Act in particular, and filling the gaps in SME support services;

· promote greater integration of Tunisian SMEs into the Enterprise Europe Network through the conclusion of a memorandum of understanding;

· encourage Tunisia's participation in the programme to support the competitiveness of companies and SMEs;

· support improved mechanisms for setting up businesses and promote SMEs' access to finance through the strengthening of equity financing instruments and pre-seed mechanisms for young promoters and innovative activities;

· support institutional capacity-building for structures to aid SMEs, particularly guidance for investors, marketing and drawing up business plans, and the like;

· step up the activity of investment funds and their intervention in the regions.

Pillar 3: Deepening integration and conclusion of a Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Agreement

The two parties underline their desire to continue the work of gradually integrating their economies with the objective of ultimately creating a Common Economic Area through increased trade facilitation and a start as soon as possible to negotiations on a Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Agreement (DCFTA) as part of Tunisia's engagement in a process of democratic and economic reforms.

The DCFTA provides for better market access opportunities, an improved investment climate and greater support for economic reforms undertaken to this end. The DCFTA, which will be an integral part of the AA, will thus cover a large number of areas of common interest (non exhaustive list: the focus will be on priority sectors chosen by the two parties in the framework of legislative approximation):

· further liberalisation to improve market access for agricultural products, processed agricultural products, fishery products and industrial products, taking into account the circumstances of both parties;

· technical regulations for industrial products, standards, conformity assessment and market surveillance;

· sanitary and phytosanitary measures;

· liberalisation of trade in services and investment protection;

· public procurement;

· competition policy;

· capital movements and payments;

· protection of intellectual property rights, including the protection of Tunisian and European geographical indications;

· customs;

· trade facilitation;

· dialogue on trade defence instruments;

· trade and sustainable development.

In negotiating the DCFTA the parties will take into account the sensitivity of certain sectors and provision will be made for asymmetrical commitments appropriate to the development differential between the two parties. The DCFTA should also identify the priorities for regulatory approximation with the acquis communautaire on the basis of mutual interests; a dynamic approach should be adopted to allow for additional regulatory approximation at a later date and gradual implementation.

Under the DCFTA the two parties will thus aim to achieve the following.

3.1 Better access to markets for goods through the removal of tariff and non tariff barriers

43. Agricultural products and sanitary and phytosanitary issues

· resume/finalise the negotiations to liberalise trade in agricultural products, processed agricultural products and fishery products;

· strengthen cooperation to improve animal and plant health and food safety, taking into account animal welfare, also with the aim of facilitating trade in agricultural products between Tunisia and the EU;

· continue implementation of the WTO Agreement on the application of Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) Measures and the international standards of the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE), the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) and the Codex Alimentarius;

· on the basis of the standards of the relevant organisations, gradually align Tunisian sanitary, phytosanitary and animal-welfare laws and regulations with those of the EU in order to achieve equivalent protection, including hygiene, identification and traceability of live animals, animal feed and food;

· adopt and start implementing the draft framework law on food safety;

· strengthen and upgrade institutions and laboratories, including those for the certification of agricultural products;

· cooperate in order to improve measures for the prevention and eradication of animal diseases and plant pests, including the setting–up of relevant professional bodies;

· exchanges of technical expertise and experience, including participation in the training workshops of the European Commission's 'Better Training for Safer Food' (BTSF) programme;

· continue cooperation on health alerts, especially within the EU's Rapid Alert System (RASFF);

· upgrade and strengthen sanitary and phytosanitary border controls, including the infrastructure of border inspection posts (BIPs).

44. Industrial products

· complete alignment of horizontal legislation on accreditation, conformity assessment and market surveillance with a view to harmonising it with the EU New Legislative Framework (NLF) of 2008;

· for selected priority sectors, finalise alignment of sectoral legislation and the adoption of European standards, together with the elimination of conflicting standards, and identify other potential sectors;

· continue and finalise the upgrading of institutions responsible for accreditation, standardisation, conformity assessment, metrology and market surveillance, especially by implementing the recommendations emerging from twinning projects and technical assistance and through exchanges of information and expertise and their integration into European and international structures;

· finalise preparations for the construction materials and electrical products sectors, and negotiate and conclude an agreement on conformity assessment and acceptance of industrial products (ACAA) for these two priority sectors; other priority sectors, in particular machinery, pressure equipment and measuring instruments, may be added to the agreement as legislative alignment proceeds;

· continue efforts to raise awareness among economic actors, including Tunisian SMEs, and provide them with the necessary support for implementation of European directives and standards adopted by Tunisia;

· implement the ACAA, extend its application and ensure its sustainability with appropriate EU support.

45. Trade facilitation and development

· overhaul the foreign trade regime to reduce non-tariff barriers and strengthen instruments and bodies in the fields of trade facilitation, awareness-raising, controls, and implementation of legislation;

· strengthen cooperation as much as possible, including through the exchange of information on trade defence;

· develop the capacity of TBT (technical barriers to trade) inquiry points to improve information flows and cooperation between the EU and Tunisia and to relay information to operators.

46. Revision of rules of origin

· conclude the Regional Convention on pan-Euro-Mediterranean Preferential Rules of Origin;

· continue negotiations on the revision of these rules in order to simplify them and take account of new technical and technological developments in industry and of development priorities in strategic sectors for Tunisia, such as textiles and agri-food products, so as to mitigate the impact of tariff erosion in the region.

47. Customs cooperation

· continue implementation of customs measures facilitating trade, while also ensuring the security of the international supply chain (greater use of risk analysis, ex-post controls, simplified customs clearance procedures for known and certified operators, transparent legislation, extending the one-stop shop pilot project, etc.);

· continue work on integrated management with other border stakeholders;

· strengthen dialogue on the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) system in order to bring Tunisian rules into line with those of the EU, with the ultimate aim, once the conditions are met, of an agreement between the Tunisian and EU customs administrations on mutual recognition of AEO status;

· continue the capacity-building of Tunisian customs institutions;

· take part in the Customs 2020 programme.

48. Intellectual property rights: gradually bringing Tunisian legislation into line with that of the EU and enforcing effective implementation of these provisions, also by the courts

· further align Tunisian legislation on that of the EU in the areas of industrial‑property, copyright and related rights, and finalise preparations to join the international conventions provided for in the Association Agreement (analysis of gap between Tunisian and EU legislation, adopting approximated legislation, etc.);

· align Tunisian legislation on EU legislation on the protection of geographical indications (PGI) and designations of origin (PDO) (analysis of gap between Tunisian and EU legislation, adopting approximated legislation, etc.);

· build administrative and judicial capacity, in particular to combat counterfeiting and piracy, in coordination with EU institutions, bodies and the private sector (regular activities, action plan, dialogue, etc.);

· increase means to ensure an effective and dissuasive protection of intellectual property rights (step up powers and capacity of customs, criminal and judicial follow-up, economic assessment of the impact of counterfeiting and piracy on domestic creativity and innovation);

· continue efforts to raise awareness about intellectual property and provide training.

3.2 Improving market access and freedom of establishment for services and service providers

49. Liberalising trade in services and the right of establishment

· continue and finalise the negotiations on the liberalisation of trade in services and the right of establishment;

· ensure that the conditions for establishment of companies do not become more restrictive than when the Association Agreement was concluded;

· agree a framework to facilitate talks on (i) the mutual recognition of professional qualifications in order to ease the implementation of concessions by the two parties and the mobility of service providers; (ii) implement the pertinent measures referred to in point 25.

50. Development of Tunisia's services sector

· simplify administrative procedures by ensuring that the procedures governing access to and exercise of service activities are transparent, proportionate and based on objective criteria in order to provide predictability and legal certainty to service providers);

· reform financial services (alignment on European and international rules and surveillance):

· further strengthen the regulatory and supervisory framework for financial markets and actors by aligning it on that of the EU with a view to gradual liberalisation;

· strengthen the powers, effectiveness and independence of the authorities supervising financial markets in accordance with international standards;

· consolidate the financial strength of credit institutions and strengthen prudential provisions in order to achieve convergence on international standards; develop a system of bank deposit protection;

· develop the microfinance sector, particularly in rural areas, and develop financial services tailored to the needs of farmers with small and medium-sized holdings;

· develop the activity of rating agencies and implement their legal framework based on the principles of the International Organisation of Securities Commissions (IOSCO) and the relevant European legislation;

· continue development of the postal sector in Tunisia and facilitate the creation of an appropriate regulatory framework for the sector;

· exchange experiences and expertise on postal regulation, also with a view to convergence with the EU's regulatory framework;

· with EU support, plan the setting-up of a regulatory authority for the postal services market.

51. Promotion and development of e-commerce

· develop cooperation to promote the network marketing business (sales networks);

· adopt best European and international practices;

· establish appropriate regulation, help graduates to join the virtual economy and create added value and job opportunities.

52. Capital movements and current payments: complete liberalisation of current payments and continue liberalisation of equity transactions

· gradually complete the liberalisation of current payments and pursue liberalisation of capital movements in accordance with Article 34 of the Association Agreement;

· exchange information on best practices for the elimination of barriers to the free movement of capital.

3.3 A fair competitive environment

53. Competition policy: implement and consolidate undertakings made concerning legislation and implementation of an effective competition policy (Articles 36 and 37 of the Association Agreement)

· evaluate the current system (framework legislation in force and implementation) and adopt appropriate measures, in particular antitrust measures, to facilitate the alignment of Tunisian legislation with that of the EU, while upholding the principles of non-discrimination, transparency and procedural fairness;

· continue enhancing the role of the Competition Council.

54. State monopolies: implement commitments made under Articles 37 and 38 of the Association Agreement

· exchange information on state monopolies, public enterprises and enterprises with special or exclusive rights in order to help Tunisia implement Article 37 of the Association Agreement.

55. State aid: implement the commitments on state aid made under Article 36 of the Association Agreement

· ensure that the conditions exist to make state aid transparent.

3.4 Deeper South-South integration

56. Help ensure completion of a free trade area between the EU and all its Mediterranean partners

· continue implementation of Free Trade Agreements with the Mediterranean partners at regional, intra-regional or bilateral levels;

· support implementation of the Arab-Mediterranean Free Trade Agreement (Agadir Agreement) and its extension to other Mediterranean partners;

· agree and implement mechanisms to facilitate trade and investment and promote deeper South-South integration.

3.5 Moving closer to the EU acquis

· continue, gradually and step by step, to bring Tunisia's legal and regulatory framework closer to the EU acquis, relying in particular on EU instruments of institutional support, particularly in the relevant areas of the internal market;

· to do this a joint mechanism will be set up to identify the priority areas for approximation, the phases and the resources needed; Tunisia will set up, with EU support, a national convergence programme to implement the action plan.

Pillar 4 - Cooperation on employment, social policy and social security

57. Implementation of reforms in employment policy, including enhancing employability and decent work

· develop and implement a comprehensive national employment strategy, taking into account the post-Constituent Assembly economic and social programme, plus the guidelines of the European Employment Strategy and the nine priorities of Euro-Mediterranean cooperation on employment and labour;

· adapt qualifications to match labour market needs and support the setting-up of a vocational information and guidance service;

· support the creation of a certification system to facilitate recognition of qualifications and promote mobility, career development and employability;

· continue consultations and dialogue on employment, employability and decent work, particularly within the Euro-Med Ministerial Conference on Employment and Labour, in agreement with the principles of flexicurity, justice and social equity;

· increase participation in the formal, productive labour market, in particular that of young people and women, and ensure that active labour-market policies are fair, above all by integrating women and the long-term unemployed among young graduates;

· improve the system for regularly evaluating active labour-market policies in order make them more effective and tailor them to labour market requirements;

· build the capacity and modernise the delivery of public services in charge of employment and labour-market monitoring, particularly in terms of information on employment and the networking of public, private and civil‑society operators.

58. Full implementation of fundamental social rights and labour standards and improved social-dialogue structures

· continue dialogue and cooperation on implementation of fundamental principles and rights at work and core labour standards and conventions pursuant to the 1998 International Labour Organisation (ILO) Declaration;

· develop labour legislation designed to make the labour market more flexible while protecting the rights of workers;

· energise social and economic transformation in Tunisia through the conclusion of a new social contract and an effective social dialogue between the social partners; develop tripartite structures and independent bipartite social dialogues, including capacity-building for the social partners;

· implement Tunisia's decent work programme after its adoption by Tunisia and the ILO, and monitor its objectives and indicators;

· strengthen social dialogue within companies and, through the continuing training of members of the Commissions Consultatives des Entreprises (works advisory committees) to help prevent labour disputes and improve productivity and employability in the company;

· strengthen the system for promoting and monitoring health and safety in the workplace, including relevant training measures, enshrinement of the precautionary principle, the prevention of occupational risks relating to the handling of dangerous or toxic substances, and the exchange of best practices and reports in this area;

· formulate legislation on health and safety at work, develop a strategy for preventing and reducing fatal and serious accidents at work, draft standards and certification guides, and map occupational risks;

· strengthen and restructure the Occupational Health and Safety Institute to enable it to adapt to new national and international requirements for workplace health promotion, prevention of occupational risks and ownership of new planning and programming approaches to the well-being of workers;

· implement the national occupational risks management programme (PNGRP), including specific prevention of exposure to occupational risks in agriculture and fisheries;

· promote corporate social responsibility and support the development of business practices complying with the United Nations Global Compact, the ILO Tripartite Declaration on Multinational Enterprises and Social Policy and the relevant Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) practices;

59. Promoting the social inclusion policy and continuing social protection reforms

· continue cooperation to strengthen and consolidate an integrated and effective social inclusion policy that involves civil society;

· reduce the proportion of the population living in absolute or relative poverty or in a position of great vulnerability, as recognised by international standards, reduce social inequalities and implement an information system on the categories of the poor;

· guarantee the active social inclusion of all by encouraging participation in the labour market, in particular by the most vulnerable groups;

· promote the role of social structures and civil society organisations in the provision of support and assistance for the integration of categories at risk of exclusion and continue the socio-occupational integration of people with a disability;

· reform the pension system and ensure the financial sustainability of pension systems; build the institutional capacity of government agencies responsible for managing pensions and health care;

· work towards extending social security coverage and continue the dialogue on improving the system of social protection for workers who lose their jobs for economic or technological reasons, especially in the context of Tunisia's introduction of a national social protection floor;

60. Ensuring the application of the principles of equal treatment in social legislation and enshrining the principles of social security coordination between Tunisia and the EU

· ensure that provisions on equal treatment at work, remuneration and dismissal are fully implemented, both for Tunisian workers and legally employed EU nationals;

· fully implement the undertakings given under the Association Agreement concerning the coordination of social security for workers and their members of their families;

· ensure full application of the clause on non-discrimination in social security for Tunisian and EU nationals and members of their families;

Pillar 5 - Balanced and inclusive regional and local development

61. Support for regional development efforts to reduce regional imbalances and promote local development capacity

· support the implementation of policies and programmes to reduce regional disparities (including the rehabilitation and development of social and community infrastructure), reduce unemployment, poverty and insecurity, and increase investment, particularly in disadvantaged inland areas;

· support the implementation of integrated development programmes (rural/urban) and carry out targeted measures in regions with specific problems ((high migration potential, high unemployment, border areas);

· improve regions' local self-development capacity, promote rural development and improve living conditions in rural areas, always involving civil society;

62. Strengthening decentralised and crossborder cooperation

· strengthen territorial cooperation with the EU, particularly for diagnosis and the formulation of regional economic development strategies, territorial marketing and economic promotion;

· build the institutional capacity of regional development bodies, strengthen regional economic governance and foster modernisation and local government capacity-building programmes in order to make local authorities the engine of development at local level;

· enrich, disseminate and exploit multisectoral regional information for the purposes of local expertise and regional programming and planning (pooling the use of a regional economic information system, developing regional economic intelligence and monitoring units, and creating a national observatory on regional development and strengthening decentralised cooperation);

· foster alignment on the European model of regional development and cohesion, develop decentralised cooperation between regional and local development institutions, and promote the exchange of knowledge and skills and cooperative relations in the framework of projects mounted and conducted in partnership with European organisations.

63. Support for the process of decentralisation and local governance

· institutional support for the introduction of a decentralisation policy and support for the overhaul of the role of government at central and regional levels in the course of decentralisation;

· support for reform of local government systems, whether legal and regulatory (laws and regulations), institutional and organisational (competences and responsibilities) or financial (local taxes);

· support for the formulation of a human-resources management strategy and programmes of capacity building and human development at local level in the form of targeted training, retraining and advanced training, and the establishment of structures to train and support elected officials;

· support for the establishment of a system of governance based on participatory democracy and promotion of projects through local authorities capable of generating the support of local people;

64. Urban development and land–use planning

· support governance in the sphere of land–use and urban planning and management and improve coordination between the central and local levels;

· build the capacity of municipalities in urban planning and land use;

· improve monitoring of planning matters, including the creation of dedicated observatories.

Pillar 6 - Modern infrastructure to serve a competitive economy

6.1 Transport and logistical services

65. Implementation of national policy on transport and the development of sustainable transport

· implement a sustainable national transport policy for the improvement of all modes of transport, particularly with a view to safe and efficient systems with lesser impact on the environment and climate change, and support the development of research;

· in particular, continue MedaMos and Safemed programmes as part of the Euro‑Mediterranean (Euromed) transport dialogue;

· continue the formulation of an infrastructure policy by identifying and evaluating infrastructure projects for various transport modes, taking particular account of international targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions;

· expand and modernise port and airport infrastructure and upgrade commercial seaports;

· for ports identified as ports of the motorways of the sea, ensure certain standards (of port infrastructure, port services, administrative procedures and coordination of inspections, and maritime and intermodal services);

· develop sector strategies to meet objectives arising from the development of trade with the EU and from implementation of the Union for the Mediterranean;

· promote the use of EU technical interoperability specifications by Tunisian railways;

· continue participation in the planning exercise for transport infrastructure in the Mediterranean, in particular the future Trans-Mediterranean Transport Network and improving links with the Trans-European Transport Network.

66. Regulatory approximation and institutional capacity-building

· initiate negotiations on the Euro–Mediterranean open sky agreement;

· continue the approximation of legislative and regulatory frameworks with European and international standards for all modes of transport and the institutional capacity-building of Tunisian structures responsible for transport;

· strengthen the structures of the maritime authority and support the harmonisation of its relationship with the port authority;

· promote exchanges of experiences and good practices concerning sustainable transport for all transport modes.

67. Developing logistics and promoting intermodality

· continue to modernise logistics services and activities, including support for the setting–up of the logistics observatory, and to implement the logistics development strategy and set up networks of logistics platforms in order to ensure smoother EU–Tunisia trade flows;

· develop cooperation to improve the provision of training in logistics and the use of new communication technologies (e-logistics);

· step up dialogue with the EU with the aim of involving Tunisia in EU actions to improve the supply chain and its security.

6.2 Energy

68. Gradual convergence on the goals of EU energy policy

· draft an energy policy document on the gradual convergence on EU energy goals;

· promote cooperation on scientific research and technology transfers.

69. Reinforce, develop and optimise energy networks and infrastructure

· develop and strengthen networks, infrastructure and interconnections (gas, electricity, oil) in Tunisia (especially in inland regions), the Maghreb countries and the Euro-Mediterranean region (including pipeline and electricity interconnections with Italy).

70. Promote the use of renewable energy and energy efficiency

· work to achieve the goal of getting 20 % of energy from renewable sources by 2020;

· cooperate within the framework of the Tunisian Solar Plan and other Tunisian energy management measures consistent with the Mediterranean Solar Plan;

· strengthen institutions and gradually align Tunisian legislation on EU legislation and practice;

· prepare for participation in the EU's Intelligent Energy Programme.

71. Gradual integration of Tunisia's electricity and gas markets into the European energy market

· continue reforms of the gas and electricity sectors by convergence on the EU acquis, including the adoption of electricity and gas codes; set up a regulator and phase out price distortions;

· gradually integrate the electricity markets of Tunisia, Morocco and Algeria.

72. Strengthening regional cooperation

· continue energy cooperation within the Union for the Mediterranean, also with a view to implementation of the Mediterranean Solar Plan; continue cooperation within the Regional Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency in Cairo.

6.3 Information and Communication Technologies (ICT)

73. Strengthening sectoral cooperation

· continue ICT cooperation in order to create a universal and inclusive information society, including exchanges of experiences and expertise related to sector regulation with a view to approximating the regulatory framework with that of the EU (e.g. the Euro-Mediterranean Network of Regulators - EMERG);

· promote institutional cooperation between European and Tunisian regulators/agencies (the National Electronic Certification Agency (ANCE), the National Frequencies Agency, the National Telecommunications Authority, etc.), for example, by integrating ANCE in e-signature projects;

· develop cooperation on electronic certification, starting with e-signatures, and assess the possibilities for exchanging technical and/or legal expertise;

· exchange experiences in the field of security and digital trust (cybersecurity);

· exchange experiences and expertise to enhance the capacity to evaluate telecommunications markets and growth opportunities offered by e-commerce;

· develop more advanced cooperation on the information society and the digital economy on the basis of common themes, taking the action plan as a reference;

· promote the free use of the internet, including exchanges of expertise and experience on European , international and Tunisian developments concerning the principles that govern the internet;

· continue to boost the competitiveness and capacity of Tunisia's ICT sector;

· continue and maintain cooperation on research and education networks, particularly in the Mediterranean regional network (Euromedconnect), which offers access to specific electronic resources for research.

74. Development of technology infrastructure

· develop an inclusive information society and promote cooperation, development of skills and exchanges of experiences in areas related to information technology developments in the public sector, especially the restructuring of major government applications in the context of a new economic model, based, for example, on the technology of Cloud Computing, Open Gov, Open Data and SaaS 'Software as a Service';

· facilitate the exchange of experiences and expertise in the formulation and implementation of laws and standards on the development and use of information technologies;

· present and debate Tunisia's goal to establish itself as a regional telecommunications and internet hub ;

· promote the expansion of the DTT network (Digital Terrestrial Television) in the short term and evaluate the long-term prospects of terrestrial television.

Pillar 7 - Enhanced sectoral cooperation

7.1 Agriculture and fisheries

75. Support for the modernisation of agriculture

· support the establishment of a multiannual agricultural and rural development programme (ENPARD);

· support implementation of the national agricultural development strategy in accordance with the main policy guidelines on increasing food security, sustainably managing natural resources, adding value to exports and adapting to climate change;

· continue and strengthen cooperation and the exchange of information and expertise on agricultural policy;

· support the agricultural upgrading programme concerning both agricultural holdings and agricultural institutions and support structures;

· develop and consolidate Tunisian professional agricultural organisations by making them more representative and effective in promoting and organising the agricultural and agri-industrial sectors;

· promote partnerships between Tunisian professional organisations and their European counterparts so as to enhance their leadership role in training, extension services, consultancy and marketing;

· implement the national organic farming strategy and support convergence with EU legislation and policies;

· implement the national fisheries strategy aiming at a sustainable use of fishery resources, the consolidation of port infrastructure, adding value to fishery products and improving their competitiveness, and promotion of marine and freshwater fish farming;

· develop cooperation with the EU within Mediterranean Regional Fisheries Management Organisations (RFMOs) (International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas, ICCAT and the General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean, GFCM) concerning the sustainable use of resources.

7.2 Industry

76. Support for a more competitive industry, creating value and generating growth

· support the formulation and implementation of industrial strategies aimed at climbing the value chain and promoting the emergence of sectors with high-growth potential, setting-up thematic technological and industrial networks and developing innovation clusters;

· develop and improve industrial and technological infrastructure (industrial zones, technology parks, industry and technology clusters) and promote its attractiveness, especially abroad;

· step up the upgrading of business support structures and improve their regional scope;

· maximise Tunisia's participation in the implementation and monitoring of horizontal and sectoral actions and networks of Euro-Mediterranean industrial cooperation, including competitive hubs;

· encourage the listing of industrial enterprises with European and international central purchasing and contracting bodies and support the organisation of a European-Tunisian industry and technology partnership salon in Tunisia;

77. Pursue dialogue on the future of the textile/clothing industry

· support the transition from subcontracting to co-contracting and the development of products, and step up cooperation in the development of labelling that facilitates market access;

· develop cooperation and the transfer of know-how relating to finishing operations (reducing energy and water consumption) and promote cooperation and exchange of good practices in logistics, multimodal transport, wastewater treatment and technical textiles.

7.3 Tourism

78. Development of cooperation with the EU to support implementation of the tourism development strategy

· help the tourism sector and tourist firms to adapt to market developments and new information technologies (electronic tourist trade, web-compatibility);

· improve the quality and diversity of all aspects of the supply and professional skills in the sector;

· promote the restructuring of investment in and financing of tourism.

79. Promote partnerships and exchanges of best practices in investment and tourism promotion and involve the private sector

· facilitate Tunisia's participation in EU programmes concerning innovation, competitiveness, labelling and development of supply;

· encourage the organisation of forums on the opportunities for investment and partnership in tourism and of promotional activities.

7.4 Strengthening cooperation in the crafts sector

80. Support for Tunisia in implementing the national crafts development plan that aims in particular to:

· consolidate and modernise the institutional, professional, regulatory, fiscal and financial framework for craft activities and develop a long-term communications strategy for the sector;

· develop the knowledge and technical skills of craftspersons and craft enterprises by modernising educational structures and procedures, vocational training, apprenticeships, research and innovation, and assistance for business start-ups;

· promote the upgrading of craft enterprises, improve quality, and develop marketing and investment in production infrastructure.

7.5 Strengthening cooperation on consumer protection

81. Cooperation on consumer protection

· develop exchanges of experiences and expertise in consumer protection in order to build administrative capacity for the implementation of the consumer protection policy;

· take stock of the alignment of Tunisian legislation on EU legislation in the field of consumer protection; in particular, continue screening of Tunisian legislation on product composition, labelling, manufacture and description to bring it into line with the existing EU general rules;

· enhance the role of consumer associations in consumer protection;

· implement recommendations resulting from the twinning of Tunisian and European institutions responsible for consumer protection.

Pillar 8 - A green and sustainable economy

8.1 The environment and sustainable development

82. Promoting sustainable development and establishing an enhanced environmental protection policy

· improve the strategic planning of environmental issues, encourage sustainability assessments and strengthen national and local structures responsible for the environment;

· strengthen biodiversity conservation programmes by improving the legal framework and implementation of the Strategic Plan for Biodiversity, in accordance with the 20 objectives of the 2011-2020 Strategic Plan of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD);

· set up a programme to clean up industrial centres and facilitate implementation of the national waste-management plan, sustainable management of forests and actions to halt coastal degradation, desertification and soil degradation;

· strengthen national policy on water-resource mobilisation through the use of unconventional resources, including treated wastewater.

83. Improving environmental governance

· increase the involvement of the various stakeholders with an interest in environmental performance (e.g. civil society and scientists), in accordance with Rio Principle 10;

· strengthen the system of monitoring, collecting and processing environmental information and improve the administrative capacity of the structures implementing preventive measures, pollution control and monitoring of the state of the environment;

· adopt communication strategies on the environment and support education programmes on sustainable development.

84. Supporting the transition to a green economy

· develop a legal framework for green investments and develop sectoral and regional planning geared to the transition to a green economy;

· support the creation of eco-innovation and excellence platforms and networks for sharing scientific knowledge about the green economy, and promote research and technological innovation and the diffusion of green technologies;

· support corporate social responsibility programmes for the transition to a green economy.

85. Enhancing regional cooperation on environmental issues

· strengthen regional cooperation with neighbouring countries and between regional and local authorities, particularly in the framework of the Horizon 2020 initiative for the decontamination of the Mediterranean and with regard to water and desertification problems;

· cooperate in implementing the commitments made in the Barcelona Convention and ratifying and implementing the Protocols of that Convention;

· introduce innovative instruments for cooperation with the EU on the implementation of environmental protection conventions and protocols, particularly those concerning biodiversity, desertification and waste management;

· strengthen cooperation between Tunisia and the European Environment Agency.

8.2 Climate change

86. Strengthen cooperation on climate change

· strengthen the Tunisian institutions responsible for climate issues and continue implementation of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, in particular implementation of the 2010 Cancun and 2011 Durban Agreements; In particular:

· cooperate in the development of low CO2 emission strategies for a development geared to a low carbon economy and resilience to climate change;

· draw up inventories of greenhouse gases and implement monitoring, reporting and verification measures (MRV).

· cooperate in the development and implementation of a post-2012 climate change regime, including nationally appropriate mitigation actions (NAMAs);

· exchange experiences and draw up and implement plans and strategies for climate-change mitigation and adaptation;

· conduct initial preparations for a greenhouse gas emission trading scheme;

· implement monitoring and early warning tools for better cooperation on climate change at Euro-Mediterranean level.

8.3 Integrated maritime policy

87. Developing an integrated approach to activities related to or having an impact on the sea and coastal areas, both nationally and regionally, in accordance with international law

· develop an integrated maritime policy that takes account of various marine and maritime