Council Regulation (EC) No 27/1999 of 21 December 1998 adopting autonomous and transitional measures for the preferential trade arrangements with Poland, Hungary, Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Romania and Bulgaria in certain processed agricultural products

COUNCIL REGULATION (EC) No 27/1999 of 21 December 1998 adopting autonomous and transitional measures for the preferential trade arrangements with Poland, Hungary, Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Romania and Bulgaria in certain processed agricultural products
THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION
,
Having regard to the Treaty establishing the European Community, and in particular Article 113 thereof,
Having regard to the proposal from the Commission,
Having regard to the Act of Accession of Austria, Finland and Sweden,
Whereas, pending adaptation of Protocol 3 of the Europe Agreements concluded with Poland, Hungary, Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Romania and Bulgaria (1), Council Regulation (EC) No 656/98 (2) was adopted, which, until 31 December 1998 maintains the degree of preference granted, thus offsetting possible trade-distorting effects from the enlargement of the Community and the implementation of the results of the Uruguay Round on exports from these countries to the Community;
Whereas the negotiations with the countries concerned for the conclusion of Adaptation Protocols adjusting the trade aspects of the Europe Agreements, hereinafter 'Adaptation Protocols`, have been concluded and new Protocols 3 have been initialled; whereas procedures for the formal adoption of the Adaptation Protocols are underway; whereas the time schedule required for formal adoption may not allow for the entry into force of the Adaptation Protocols with all of the countries concerned on 1 January 1999; whereas it is therefore advisable to provide for an extension of the concessions on an autonomous basis until 31 December 1999,