Council Regulation (EC) No 26/1999 of 21 December 1998 adopting autonomous and transitional measures for Europe Agreements with Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia in certain processed agricultural products

COUNCIL REGULATION (EC) No 26/1999 of 21 December 1998 adopting autonomous and transitional measures for Europe Agreements with Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia 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,
Whereas, pending adaptation of Protocol 2 of the Europe Agreements concluded with Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania (1), Regulation (EC) No 2621/97 (2) was adopted, which, until 31 December 1998 maintains the degree of preference granted, thus offsetting possible trade-distorting effects the implementation of the results of the Uruguay Round may have on exports from these countries to the Community;
Whereas, pending adoption of improved concessions granted to Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania by the respective Joint Committees, Regulation (EC) No 2621/97 laid down new concessions on a provisional and autonomous basis;
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 2 have been initialled; whereas procedures for the formal adoption of the Adaptation Protocols are under way; 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 extension of the concessions on an autonomous basis until 31 December 1999,