Article 1 
A Community framework for cooperation (hereinafter referred to as the "cooperation framework") is hereby established in order to provide financial and technical support to networks of local authorities organised in at least four Member States, and including when appropriate cities and towns in the countries referred to in Article 8, with the objective of encouraging the conception, exchange and implementation of good practices in the following fields: - implementation at local level of EU environmental legislation, - sustainable urban development, - local Agenda 21. The main partners shall be the Commission, networks of local authorities, organised urban multi-stakeholders, community networks such as NGOs, universities and other actors, organised at European level. Article 2 1. The types of activity eligible for Community support under this cooperation framework are defined in the Annex. 2. The Commission may provide support to any network of local authorities as defined in Article 1 or, in the case of the accompanying measures mentioned in part C of the Annex, to other beneficiaries who wish to develop such activities. 3. Community support shall relate to activities scheduled to take place in the course of the year to which the financial contribution relates and/or the following two years. 4. The indicative breakdown of the financial support between the types of activity is given in the Annex. Article 3 The Commission shall, in accordance with the procedure laid down in Article 11(2), assess and select from among the proposals submitted the projects to be financed on the priority themes referred to in Article 4. Article 4 1. The Commission shall publish in the Official Journal of the European Communities a notice describing the priority themes under which projects shall be financed and setting out the selection and award criteria and the application and approval procedures. 2. Proposals for projects to be financed shall be submitted to the Commission by the network of local authorities as defined in Article 1 and, for the types of activities indicated in part C of the Annex, by other eligible beneficiaries. 3. The calls for proposals for projects under this cooperation framework shall be announced in the Official Journal of the European Communities every year by 31 January. After an assessment of these proposals, the Commission shall decide by 31 May which projects it will finance. The decision on the projects to be financed shall give rise to the conclusion, with the beneficiaries responsible for implementation, of a contract governing the rights and obligations of the partners. 4. A list of the beneficiaries and projects financed through this cooperation framework shall, together with an indication of the amount of aid, be made public. Article 5 The Commission shall ensure consistency, complementarity and synergy between the Community activities and projects to implement this cooperation framework and other Community programmes and initiatives, in particular the URBAN initiative referred to in Article 20 of Council Regulation (EC) No 1260/1999 of 21 June 1999 laying down general provisions on the Structural Funds(12). Projects financed under other Community programmes and funds shall not be eligible for funding under this cooperation framework. Article 6 1. This cooperation framework shall start on 1 January 2001 and shall end on 31 December 2004. The financial framework for the implementation of this cooperation framework for the period 2001-2004 shall be EUR 14 million. The annual appropriations shall be authorised by the budgetary authority within the limits of the financial perspective. 2. Financial support of EUR 350000 or more may be obtained only if the beneficiary's accounts for the previous year have been certified by a registered auditor. The accounts for the period during which the subsidy is used shall also be certified by a registered auditor. Financial support amounting to less than EUR 350000 may be obtained only if the beneficiary's accounts are available in a form recognised by the Commission for the preceding year and are presented in that form for the period during which the subsidy is used. Article 7 The projects shall contribute towards the objectives mentioned in Article 1 and shall be selected on the basis of the following general criteria: (a) a sound cost-benefit ratio; (b) a lasting multiplier effect at European level; (c) effective and balanced cooperation among the various partners with regard to programming and carrying out activities, and financial participation; (d) a share of financial participation; (e) a contribution to a multinational approach, and in particular to transfrontier cooperation within the Community and, where appropriate, beyond its frontiers with neighbouring countries; (f) a contribution to an integrated multisectoral approach and to sustainable urban development, taking into account its social, economic and environmental dimensions; (g) the degree of involvement of all the partners, including the representatives of civil society; (h) a contribution to strengthening and revitalising public services of general interest. Article 8 This cooperation framework shall be open to participation by networks of local authorities including cities and towns in Central and Eastern European Countries, Cyprus and Malta, as well as in other countries which have concluded association agreements with the Community. Article 9 1. In order to ensure the success of the activities carried out by the beneficiaries of Community support, the Commission shall take the necessary measures to: (a) verify that activities proposed to the Commission have been carried out properly; (b) prevent and take action against irregularities; (c) recover, where appropriate, sums improperly received. 2. Without prejudice to the financial audit carried out by the Court of Auditors pursuant to Article 248 of the Treaty or inspections carried out pursuant to point (c) of Article 279 of the Treaty, officials and other staff of the Commission may carry out on-the-spot checks, including sample checks, on activities funded in this cooperation framework. The Commission shall inform beneficiaries in advance of any on-the-spot check, unless there are good reasons to suspect fraud or improper use of the aid. 3. Beneficiaries of financial support shall keep available for the Commission all supporting documents regarding expenditure on an activity for a period of five years following the last payment in respect of that activity. These may also be held in electronic format. Article 10 1. The Commission may reduce, suspend or recover the financial support granted through a contract if it finds irregularities or if it learns that the contract has been subject to a change, without its approval, which conflicts with the agreed objectives or implementing conditions. 2. If the deadlines have not been observed or if only part of the financial support allocated is justified by the progress with implementation of a contract, the Commission shall request the beneficiary to submit any explanations within a specified period. If the beneficiary does not provide a satisfactory answer, the Commission may cancel the remaining financial aid and demand prompt repayment of sums already paid. The Commission undertakes to carry out a thorough and speedy evaluation of such explanations. 3. Beneficiaries shall submit to the Commission annual progress reports for contracts of more than one year and a financial report for each contract within six months of its completion. The Commission shall determine the form and content of the reports. If the reports are not submitted within the time-limits laid down, the beneficiary shall no longer be eligible for subsequent funding under this Decision. The Commission undertakes to evaluate the reports within a reasonable time-limit to avoid unnecessary delays in payments. 4. Any undue payment shall be repaid to the Commission. Interest may be added to sums not repaid in good time. The Commission shall lay down the detailed rules for implementing this paragraph. Article 11 1. The Commission shall be assisted by an advisory committee. 2. Where reference is made to this paragraph, Articles 3 and 7 of Council Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, having regard to the provisions of Article 8 thereof. 3. The committee shall adopt its rules of procedure. Article 12 The Commission shall assess the implementation of this cooperation framework and shall submit a report in this connection to the European Parliament and to the Council no later than 31 March 2003. Article 13 This Decision shall apply from 1 January 2001 to 31 December 2004. Done at Luxembourg, 27 June 2001. For the European Parliament The President N. Fontaine For the Council B. Rosengren (1) OJ C 56 E, 29.2.2000, p. 68. (2) OJ C 204, 18.7.2000, p. 35. (3) OJ C 317, 6.11.2000, p. 33. (4) Opinion of the European Parliament of 14 December 2000 (not yet published in the Official Journal) and Council Decision of 18 June 2001. (5) OJ L 275, 10.10.1998, p. 1. (6) OJ C 138, 17.5.1993, p. 5. (7) OJ C 226, 20.7.1998, pp. 34 and 36 and OJ C 279, 1.10.1999, p. 44. (8) OJ C 51, 22.2.1999, p. 21. (9) OJ C 251, 10.8.1998, p. 11. (10) OJ C 172, 18.6.1999, p. 1. (11) OJ L 184, 17.7.1999, p. 23. (12) OJ L 161, 26.6.1999, p. 1.
Article 2 
1. The types of activity eligible for Community support under this cooperation framework are defined in the Annex. 2. The Commission may provide support to any network of local authorities as defined in Article 1 or, in the case of the accompanying measures mentioned in part C of the Annex, to other beneficiaries who wish to develop such activities. 3. Community support shall relate to activities scheduled to take place in the course of the year to which the financial contribution relates and/or the following two years. 4. The indicative breakdown of the financial support between the types of activity is given in the Annex. Article 3 The Commission shall, in accordance with the procedure laid down in Article 11(2), assess and select from among the proposals submitted the projects to be financed on the priority themes referred to in Article 4. Article 4 1. The Commission shall publish in the Official Journal of the European Communities a notice describing the priority themes under which projects shall be financed and setting out the selection and award criteria and the application and approval procedures. 2. Proposals for projects to be financed shall be submitted to the Commission by the network of local authorities as defined in Article 1 and, for the types of activities indicated in part C of the Annex, by other eligible beneficiaries. 3. The calls for proposals for projects under this cooperation framework shall be announced in the Official Journal of the European Communities every year by 31 January. After an assessment of these proposals, the Commission shall decide by 31 May which projects it will finance. The decision on the projects to be financed shall give rise to the conclusion, with the beneficiaries responsible for implementation, of a contract governing the rights and obligations of the partners. 4. A list of the beneficiaries and projects financed through this cooperation framework shall, together with an indication of the amount of aid, be made public. Article 5 The Commission shall ensure consistency, complementarity and synergy between the Community activities and projects to implement this cooperation framework and other Community programmes and initiatives, in particular the URBAN initiative referred to in Article 20 of Council Regulation (EC) No 1260/1999 of 21 June 1999 laying down general provisions on the Structural Funds(12). Projects financed under other Community programmes and funds shall not be eligible for funding under this cooperation framework. Article 6 1. This cooperation framework shall start on 1 January 2001 and shall end on 31 December 2004. The financial framework for the implementation of this cooperation framework for the period 2001-2004 shall be EUR 14 million. The annual appropriations shall be authorised by the budgetary authority within the limits of the financial perspective. 2. Financial support of EUR 350000 or more may be obtained only if the beneficiary's accounts for the previous year have been certified by a registered auditor. The accounts for the period during which the subsidy is used shall also be certified by a registered auditor. Financial support amounting to less than EUR 350000 may be obtained only if the beneficiary's accounts are available in a form recognised by the Commission for the preceding year and are presented in that form for the period during which the subsidy is used. Article 7 The projects shall contribute towards the objectives mentioned in Article 1 and shall be selected on the basis of the following general criteria: (a) a sound cost-benefit ratio; (b) a lasting multiplier effect at European level; (c) effective and balanced cooperation among the various partners with regard to programming and carrying out activities, and financial participation; (d) a share of financial participation; (e) a contribution to a multinational approach, and in particular to transfrontier cooperation within the Community and, where appropriate, beyond its frontiers with neighbouring countries; (f) a contribution to an integrated multisectoral approach and to sustainable urban development, taking into account its social, economic and environmental dimensions; (g) the degree of involvement of all the partners, including the representatives of civil society; (h) a contribution to strengthening and revitalising public services of general interest. Article 8 This cooperation framework shall be open to participation by networks of local authorities including cities and towns in Central and Eastern European Countries, Cyprus and Malta, as well as in other countries which have concluded association agreements with the Community. Article 9 1. In order to ensure the success of the activities carried out by the beneficiaries of Community support, the Commission shall take the necessary measures to: (a) verify that activities proposed to the Commission have been carried out properly; (b) prevent and take action against irregularities; (c) recover, where appropriate, sums improperly received. 2. Without prejudice to the financial audit carried out by the Court of Auditors pursuant to Article 248 of the Treaty or inspections carried out pursuant to point (c) of Article 279 of the Treaty, officials and other staff of the Commission may carry out on-the-spot checks, including sample checks, on activities funded in this cooperation framework. The Commission shall inform beneficiaries in advance of any on-the-spot check, unless there are good reasons to suspect fraud or improper use of the aid. 3. Beneficiaries of financial support shall keep available for the Commission all supporting documents regarding expenditure on an activity for a period of five years following the last payment in respect of that activity. These may also be held in electronic format. Article 10 1. The Commission may reduce, suspend or recover the financial support granted through a contract if it finds irregularities or if it learns that the contract has been subject to a change, without its approval, which conflicts with the agreed objectives or implementing conditions. 2. If the deadlines have not been observed or if only part of the financial support allocated is justified by the progress with implementation of a contract, the Commission shall request the beneficiary to submit any explanations within a specified period. If the beneficiary does not provide a satisfactory answer, the Commission may cancel the remaining financial aid and demand prompt repayment of sums already paid. The Commission undertakes to carry out a thorough and speedy evaluation of such explanations. 3. Beneficiaries shall submit to the Commission annual progress reports for contracts of more than one year and a financial report for each contract within six months of its completion. The Commission shall determine the form and content of the reports. If the reports are not submitted within the time-limits laid down, the beneficiary shall no longer be eligible for subsequent funding under this Decision. The Commission undertakes to evaluate the reports within a reasonable time-limit to avoid unnecessary delays in payments. 4. Any undue payment shall be repaid to the Commission. Interest may be added to sums not repaid in good time. The Commission shall lay down the detailed rules for implementing this paragraph. Article 11 1. The Commission shall be assisted by an advisory committee. 2. Where reference is made to this paragraph, Articles 3 and 7 of Council Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, having regard to the provisions of Article 8 thereof. 3. The committee shall adopt its rules of procedure. Article 12 The Commission shall assess the implementation of this cooperation framework and shall submit a report in this connection to the European Parliament and to the Council no later than 31 March 2003. Article 13 This Decision shall apply from 1 January 2001 to 31 December 2004. Done at Luxembourg, 27 June 2001. For the European Parliament The President N. Fontaine For the Council B. Rosengren (1) OJ C 56 E, 29.2.2000, p. 68. (2) OJ C 204, 18.7.2000, p. 35. (3) OJ C 317, 6.11.2000, p. 33. (4) Opinion of the European Parliament of 14 December 2000 (not yet published in the Official Journal) and Council Decision of 18 June 2001. (5) OJ L 275, 10.10.1998, p. 1. (6) OJ C 138, 17.5.1993, p. 5. (7) OJ C 226, 20.7.1998, pp. 34 and 36 and OJ C 279, 1.10.1999, p. 44. (8) OJ C 51, 22.2.1999, p. 21. (9) OJ C 251, 10.8.1998, p. 11. (10) OJ C 172, 18.6.1999, p. 1. (11) OJ L 184, 17.7.1999, p. 23. (12) OJ L 161, 26.6.1999, p. 1.
Article 3 
The Commission shall, in accordance with the procedure laid down in Article 11(2), assess and select from among the proposals submitted the projects to be financed on the priority themes referred to in Article 4. Article 4 1. The Commission shall publish in the Official Journal of the European Communities a notice describing the priority themes under which projects shall be financed and setting out the selection and award criteria and the application and approval procedures. 2. Proposals for projects to be financed shall be submitted to the Commission by the network of local authorities as defined in Article 1 and, for the types of activities indicated in part C of the Annex, by other eligible beneficiaries. 3. The calls for proposals for projects under this cooperation framework shall be announced in the Official Journal of the European Communities every year by 31 January. After an assessment of these proposals, the Commission shall decide by 31 May which projects it will finance. The decision on the projects to be financed shall give rise to the conclusion, with the beneficiaries responsible for implementation, of a contract governing the rights and obligations of the partners. 4. A list of the beneficiaries and projects financed through this cooperation framework shall, together with an indication of the amount of aid, be made public. Article 5 The Commission shall ensure consistency, complementarity and synergy between the Community activities and projects to implement this cooperation framework and other Community programmes and initiatives, in particular the URBAN initiative referred to in Article 20 of Council Regulation (EC) No 1260/1999 of 21 June 1999 laying down general provisions on the Structural Funds(12). Projects financed under other Community programmes and funds shall not be eligible for funding under this cooperation framework. Article 6 1. This cooperation framework shall start on 1 January 2001 and shall end on 31 December 2004. The financial framework for the implementation of this cooperation framework for the period 2001-2004 shall be EUR 14 million. The annual appropriations shall be authorised by the budgetary authority within the limits of the financial perspective. 2. Financial support of EUR 350000 or more may be obtained only if the beneficiary's accounts for the previous year have been certified by a registered auditor. The accounts for the period during which the subsidy is used shall also be certified by a registered auditor. Financial support amounting to less than EUR 350000 may be obtained only if the beneficiary's accounts are available in a form recognised by the Commission for the preceding year and are presented in that form for the period during which the subsidy is used. Article 7 The projects shall contribute towards the objectives mentioned in Article 1 and shall be selected on the basis of the following general criteria: (a) a sound cost-benefit ratio; (b) a lasting multiplier effect at European level; (c) effective and balanced cooperation among the various partners with regard to programming and carrying out activities, and financial participation; (d) a share of financial participation; (e) a contribution to a multinational approach, and in particular to transfrontier cooperation within the Community and, where appropriate, beyond its frontiers with neighbouring countries; (f) a contribution to an integrated multisectoral approach and to sustainable urban development, taking into account its social, economic and environmental dimensions; (g) the degree of involvement of all the partners, including the representatives of civil society; (h) a contribution to strengthening and revitalising public services of general interest. Article 8 This cooperation framework shall be open to participation by networks of local authorities including cities and towns in Central and Eastern European Countries, Cyprus and Malta, as well as in other countries which have concluded association agreements with the Community. Article 9 1. In order to ensure the success of the activities carried out by the beneficiaries of Community support, the Commission shall take the necessary measures to: (a) verify that activities proposed to the Commission have been carried out properly; (b) prevent and take action against irregularities; (c) recover, where appropriate, sums improperly received. 2. Without prejudice to the financial audit carried out by the Court of Auditors pursuant to Article 248 of the Treaty or inspections carried out pursuant to point (c) of Article 279 of the Treaty, officials and other staff of the Commission may carry out on-the-spot checks, including sample checks, on activities funded in this cooperation framework. The Commission shall inform beneficiaries in advance of any on-the-spot check, unless there are good reasons to suspect fraud or improper use of the aid. 3. Beneficiaries of financial support shall keep available for the Commission all supporting documents regarding expenditure on an activity for a period of five years following the last payment in respect of that activity. These may also be held in electronic format. Article 10 1. The Commission may reduce, suspend or recover the financial support granted through a contract if it finds irregularities or if it learns that the contract has been subject to a change, without its approval, which conflicts with the agreed objectives or implementing conditions. 2. If the deadlines have not been observed or if only part of the financial support allocated is justified by the progress with implementation of a contract, the Commission shall request the beneficiary to submit any explanations within a specified period. If the beneficiary does not provide a satisfactory answer, the Commission may cancel the remaining financial aid and demand prompt repayment of sums already paid. The Commission undertakes to carry out a thorough and speedy evaluation of such explanations. 3. Beneficiaries shall submit to the Commission annual progress reports for contracts of more than one year and a financial report for each contract within six months of its completion. The Commission shall determine the form and content of the reports. If the reports are not submitted within the time-limits laid down, the beneficiary shall no longer be eligible for subsequent funding under this Decision. The Commission undertakes to evaluate the reports within a reasonable time-limit to avoid unnecessary delays in payments. 4. Any undue payment shall be repaid to the Commission. Interest may be added to sums not repaid in good time. The Commission shall lay down the detailed rules for implementing this paragraph. Article 11 1. The Commission shall be assisted by an advisory committee. 2. Where reference is made to this paragraph, Articles 3 and 7 of Council Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, having regard to the provisions of Article 8 thereof. 3. The committee shall adopt its rules of procedure. Article 12 The Commission shall assess the implementation of this cooperation framework and shall submit a report in this connection to the European Parliament and to the Council no later than 31 March 2003. Article 13 This Decision shall apply from 1 January 2001 to 31 December 2004. Done at Luxembourg, 27 June 2001. For the European Parliament The President N. Fontaine For the Council B. Rosengren (1) OJ C 56 E, 29.2.2000, p. 68. (2) OJ C 204, 18.7.2000, p. 35. (3) OJ C 317, 6.11.2000, p. 33. (4) Opinion of the European Parliament of 14 December 2000 (not yet published in the Official Journal) and Council Decision of 18 June 2001. (5) OJ L 275, 10.10.1998, p. 1. (6) OJ C 138, 17.5.1993, p. 5. (7) OJ C 226, 20.7.1998, pp. 34 and 36 and OJ C 279, 1.10.1999, p. 44. (8) OJ C 51, 22.2.1999, p. 21. (9) OJ C 251, 10.8.1998, p. 11. (10) OJ C 172, 18.6.1999, p. 1. (11) OJ L 184, 17.7.1999, p. 23. (12) OJ L 161, 26.6.1999, p. 1.
Article 4 
1. The Commission shall publish in the Official Journal of the European Communities a notice describing the priority themes under which projects shall be financed and setting out the selection and award criteria and the application and approval procedures. 2. Proposals for projects to be financed shall be submitted to the Commission by the network of local authorities as defined in Article 1 and, for the types of activities indicated in part C of the Annex, by other eligible beneficiaries. 3. The calls for proposals for projects under this cooperation framework shall be announced in the Official Journal of the European Communities every year by 31 January. After an assessment of these proposals, the Commission shall decide by 31 May which projects it will finance. The decision on the projects to be financed shall give rise to the conclusion, with the beneficiaries responsible for implementation, of a contract governing the rights and obligations of the partners. 4. A list of the beneficiaries and projects financed through this cooperation framework shall, together with an indication of the amount of aid, be made public. Article 5 The Commission shall ensure consistency, complementarity and synergy between the Community activities and projects to implement this cooperation framework and other Community programmes and initiatives, in particular the URBAN initiative referred to in Article 20 of Council Regulation (EC) No 1260/1999 of 21 June 1999 laying down general provisions on the Structural Funds(12). Projects financed under other Community programmes and funds shall not be eligible for funding under this cooperation framework. Article 6 1. This cooperation framework shall start on 1 January 2001 and shall end on 31 December 2004. The financial framework for the implementation of this cooperation framework for the period 2001-2004 shall be EUR 14 million. The annual appropriations shall be authorised by the budgetary authority within the limits of the financial perspective. 2. Financial support of EUR 350000 or more may be obtained only if the beneficiary's accounts for the previous year have been certified by a registered auditor. The accounts for the period during which the subsidy is used shall also be certified by a registered auditor. Financial support amounting to less than EUR 350000 may be obtained only if the beneficiary's accounts are available in a form recognised by the Commission for the preceding year and are presented in that form for the period during which the subsidy is used. Article 7 The projects shall contribute towards the objectives mentioned in Article 1 and shall be selected on the basis of the following general criteria: (a) a sound cost-benefit ratio; (b) a lasting multiplier effect at European level; (c) effective and balanced cooperation among the various partners with regard to programming and carrying out activities, and financial participation; (d) a share of financial participation; (e) a contribution to a multinational approach, and in particular to transfrontier cooperation within the Community and, where appropriate, beyond its frontiers with neighbouring countries; (f) a contribution to an integrated multisectoral approach and to sustainable urban development, taking into account its social, economic and environmental dimensions; (g) the degree of involvement of all the partners, including the representatives of civil society; (h) a contribution to strengthening and revitalising public services of general interest. Article 8 This cooperation framework shall be open to participation by networks of local authorities including cities and towns in Central and Eastern European Countries, Cyprus and Malta, as well as in other countries which have concluded association agreements with the Community. Article 9 1. In order to ensure the success of the activities carried out by the beneficiaries of Community support, the Commission shall take the necessary measures to: (a) verify that activities proposed to the Commission have been carried out properly; (b) prevent and take action against irregularities; (c) recover, where appropriate, sums improperly received. 2. Without prejudice to the financial audit carried out by the Court of Auditors pursuant to Article 248 of the Treaty or inspections carried out pursuant to point (c) of Article 279 of the Treaty, officials and other staff of the Commission may carry out on-the-spot checks, including sample checks, on activities funded in this cooperation framework. The Commission shall inform beneficiaries in advance of any on-the-spot check, unless there are good reasons to suspect fraud or improper use of the aid. 3. Beneficiaries of financial support shall keep available for the Commission all supporting documents regarding expenditure on an activity for a period of five years following the last payment in respect of that activity. These may also be held in electronic format. Article 10 1. The Commission may reduce, suspend or recover the financial support granted through a contract if it finds irregularities or if it learns that the contract has been subject to a change, without its approval, which conflicts with the agreed objectives or implementing conditions. 2. If the deadlines have not been observed or if only part of the financial support allocated is justified by the progress with implementation of a contract, the Commission shall request the beneficiary to submit any explanations within a specified period. If the beneficiary does not provide a satisfactory answer, the Commission may cancel the remaining financial aid and demand prompt repayment of sums already paid. The Commission undertakes to carry out a thorough and speedy evaluation of such explanations. 3. Beneficiaries shall submit to the Commission annual progress reports for contracts of more than one year and a financial report for each contract within six months of its completion. The Commission shall determine the form and content of the reports. If the reports are not submitted within the time-limits laid down, the beneficiary shall no longer be eligible for subsequent funding under this Decision. The Commission undertakes to evaluate the reports within a reasonable time-limit to avoid unnecessary delays in payments. 4. Any undue payment shall be repaid to the Commission. Interest may be added to sums not repaid in good time. The Commission shall lay down the detailed rules for implementing this paragraph. Article 11 1. The Commission shall be assisted by an advisory committee. 2. Where reference is made to this paragraph, Articles 3 and 7 of Council Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, having regard to the provisions of Article 8 thereof. 3. The committee shall adopt its rules of procedure. Article 12 The Commission shall assess the implementation of this cooperation framework and shall submit a report in this connection to the European Parliament and to the Council no later than 31 March 2003. Article 13 This Decision shall apply from 1 January 2001 to 31 December 2004. Done at Luxembourg, 27 June 2001. For the European Parliament The President N. Fontaine For the Council B. Rosengren (1) OJ C 56 E, 29.2.2000, p. 68. (2) OJ C 204, 18.7.2000, p. 35. (3) OJ C 317, 6.11.2000, p. 33. (4) Opinion of the European Parliament of 14 December 2000 (not yet published in the Official Journal) and Council Decision of 18 June 2001. (5) OJ L 275, 10.10.1998, p. 1. (6) OJ C 138, 17.5.1993, p. 5. (7) OJ C 226, 20.7.1998, pp. 34 and 36 and OJ C 279, 1.10.1999, p. 44. (8) OJ C 51, 22.2.1999, p. 21. (9) OJ C 251, 10.8.1998, p. 11. (10) OJ C 172, 18.6.1999, p. 1. (11) OJ L 184, 17.7.1999, p. 23. (12) OJ L 161, 26.6.1999, p. 1.
Article 5 
The Commission shall ensure consistency, complementarity and synergy between the Community activities and projects to implement this cooperation framework and other Community programmes and initiatives, in particular the URBAN initiative referred to in Article 20 of Council Regulation (EC) No 1260/1999 of 21 June 1999 laying down general provisions on the Structural Funds(12). Projects financed under other Community programmes and funds shall not be eligible for funding under this cooperation framework. Article 6 1. This cooperation framework shall start on 1 January 2001 and shall end on 31 December 2004. The financial framework for the implementation of this cooperation framework for the period 2001-2004 shall be EUR 14 million. The annual appropriations shall be authorised by the budgetary authority within the limits of the financial perspective. 2. Financial support of EUR 350000 or more may be obtained only if the beneficiary's accounts for the previous year have been certified by a registered auditor. The accounts for the period during which the subsidy is used shall also be certified by a registered auditor. Financial support amounting to less than EUR 350000 may be obtained only if the beneficiary's accounts are available in a form recognised by the Commission for the preceding year and are presented in that form for the period during which the subsidy is used. Article 7 The projects shall contribute towards the objectives mentioned in Article 1 and shall be selected on the basis of the following general criteria: (a) a sound cost-benefit ratio; (b) a lasting multiplier effect at European level; (c) effective and balanced cooperation among the various partners with regard to programming and carrying out activities, and financial participation; (d) a share of financial participation; (e) a contribution to a multinational approach, and in particular to transfrontier cooperation within the Community and, where appropriate, beyond its frontiers with neighbouring countries; (f) a contribution to an integrated multisectoral approach and to sustainable urban development, taking into account its social, economic and environmental dimensions; (g) the degree of involvement of all the partners, including the representatives of civil society; (h) a contribution to strengthening and revitalising public services of general interest. Article 8 This cooperation framework shall be open to participation by networks of local authorities including cities and towns in Central and Eastern European Countries, Cyprus and Malta, as well as in other countries which have concluded association agreements with the Community. Article 9 1. In order to ensure the success of the activities carried out by the beneficiaries of Community support, the Commission shall take the necessary measures to: (a) verify that activities proposed to the Commission have been carried out properly; (b) prevent and take action against irregularities; (c) recover, where appropriate, sums improperly received. 2. Without prejudice to the financial audit carried out by the Court of Auditors pursuant to Article 248 of the Treaty or inspections carried out pursuant to point (c) of Article 279 of the Treaty, officials and other staff of the Commission may carry out on-the-spot checks, including sample checks, on activities funded in this cooperation framework. The Commission shall inform beneficiaries in advance of any on-the-spot check, unless there are good reasons to suspect fraud or improper use of the aid. 3. Beneficiaries of financial support shall keep available for the Commission all supporting documents regarding expenditure on an activity for a period of five years following the last payment in respect of that activity. These may also be held in electronic format. Article 10 1. The Commission may reduce, suspend or recover the financial support granted through a contract if it finds irregularities or if it learns that the contract has been subject to a change, without its approval, which conflicts with the agreed objectives or implementing conditions. 2. If the deadlines have not been observed or if only part of the financial support allocated is justified by the progress with implementation of a contract, the Commission shall request the beneficiary to submit any explanations within a specified period. If the beneficiary does not provide a satisfactory answer, the Commission may cancel the remaining financial aid and demand prompt repayment of sums already paid. The Commission undertakes to carry out a thorough and speedy evaluation of such explanations. 3. Beneficiaries shall submit to the Commission annual progress reports for contracts of more than one year and a financial report for each contract within six months of its completion. The Commission shall determine the form and content of the reports. If the reports are not submitted within the time-limits laid down, the beneficiary shall no longer be eligible for subsequent funding under this Decision. The Commission undertakes to evaluate the reports within a reasonable time-limit to avoid unnecessary delays in payments. 4. Any undue payment shall be repaid to the Commission. Interest may be added to sums not repaid in good time. The Commission shall lay down the detailed rules for implementing this paragraph. Article 11 1. The Commission shall be assisted by an advisory committee. 2. Where reference is made to this paragraph, Articles 3 and 7 of Council Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, having regard to the provisions of Article 8 thereof. 3. The committee shall adopt its rules of procedure. Article 12 The Commission shall assess the implementation of this cooperation framework and shall submit a report in this connection to the European Parliament and to the Council no later than 31 March 2003. Article 13 This Decision shall apply from 1 January 2001 to 31 December 2004. Done at Luxembourg, 27 June 2001. For the European Parliament The President N. Fontaine For the Council B. Rosengren (1) OJ C 56 E, 29.2.2000, p. 68. (2) OJ C 204, 18.7.2000, p. 35. (3) OJ C 317, 6.11.2000, p. 33. (4) Opinion of the European Parliament of 14 December 2000 (not yet published in the Official Journal) and Council Decision of 18 June 2001. (5) OJ L 275, 10.10.1998, p. 1. (6) OJ C 138, 17.5.1993, p. 5. (7) OJ C 226, 20.7.1998, pp. 34 and 36 and OJ C 279, 1.10.1999, p. 44. (8) OJ C 51, 22.2.1999, p. 21. (9) OJ C 251, 10.8.1998, p. 11. (10) OJ C 172, 18.6.1999, p. 1. (11) OJ L 184, 17.7.1999, p. 23. (12) OJ L 161, 26.6.1999, p. 1.
Article 6 
1. This cooperation framework shall start on 1 January 2001 and shall end on 31 December 2004. The financial framework for the implementation of this cooperation framework for the period 2001-2004 shall be EUR 14 million. The annual appropriations shall be authorised by the budgetary authority within the limits of the financial perspective. 2. Financial support of EUR 350000 or more may be obtained only if the beneficiary's accounts for the previous year have been certified by a registered auditor. The accounts for the period during which the subsidy is used shall also be certified by a registered auditor. Financial support amounting to less than EUR 350000 may be obtained only if the beneficiary's accounts are available in a form recognised by the Commission for the preceding year and are presented in that form for the period during which the subsidy is used. Article 7 The projects shall contribute towards the objectives mentioned in Article 1 and shall be selected on the basis of the following general criteria: (a) a sound cost-benefit ratio; (b) a lasting multiplier effect at European level; (c) effective and balanced cooperation among the various partners with regard to programming and carrying out activities, and financial participation; (d) a share of financial participation; (e) a contribution to a multinational approach, and in particular to transfrontier cooperation within the Community and, where appropriate, beyond its frontiers with neighbouring countries; (f) a contribution to an integrated multisectoral approach and to sustainable urban development, taking into account its social, economic and environmental dimensions; (g) the degree of involvement of all the partners, including the representatives of civil society; (h) a contribution to strengthening and revitalising public services of general interest. Article 8 This cooperation framework shall be open to participation by networks of local authorities including cities and towns in Central and Eastern European Countries, Cyprus and Malta, as well as in other countries which have concluded association agreements with the Community. Article 9 1. In order to ensure the success of the activities carried out by the beneficiaries of Community support, the Commission shall take the necessary measures to: (a) verify that activities proposed to the Commission have been carried out properly; (b) prevent and take action against irregularities; (c) recover, where appropriate, sums improperly received. 2. Without prejudice to the financial audit carried out by the Court of Auditors pursuant to Article 248 of the Treaty or inspections carried out pursuant to point (c) of Article 279 of the Treaty, officials and other staff of the Commission may carry out on-the-spot checks, including sample checks, on activities funded in this cooperation framework. The Commission shall inform beneficiaries in advance of any on-the-spot check, unless there are good reasons to suspect fraud or improper use of the aid. 3. Beneficiaries of financial support shall keep available for the Commission all supporting documents regarding expenditure on an activity for a period of five years following the last payment in respect of that activity. These may also be held in electronic format. Article 10 1. The Commission may reduce, suspend or recover the financial support granted through a contract if it finds irregularities or if it learns that the contract has been subject to a change, without its approval, which conflicts with the agreed objectives or implementing conditions. 2. If the deadlines have not been observed or if only part of the financial support allocated is justified by the progress with implementation of a contract, the Commission shall request the beneficiary to submit any explanations within a specified period. If the beneficiary does not provide a satisfactory answer, the Commission may cancel the remaining financial aid and demand prompt repayment of sums already paid. The Commission undertakes to carry out a thorough and speedy evaluation of such explanations. 3. Beneficiaries shall submit to the Commission annual progress reports for contracts of more than one year and a financial report for each contract within six months of its completion. The Commission shall determine the form and content of the reports. If the reports are not submitted within the time-limits laid down, the beneficiary shall no longer be eligible for subsequent funding under this Decision. The Commission undertakes to evaluate the reports within a reasonable time-limit to avoid unnecessary delays in payments. 4. Any undue payment shall be repaid to the Commission. Interest may be added to sums not repaid in good time. The Commission shall lay down the detailed rules for implementing this paragraph. Article 11 1. The Commission shall be assisted by an advisory committee. 2. Where reference is made to this paragraph, Articles 3 and 7 of Council Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, having regard to the provisions of Article 8 thereof. 3. The committee shall adopt its rules of procedure. Article 12 The Commission shall assess the implementation of this cooperation framework and shall submit a report in this connection to the European Parliament and to the Council no later than 31 March 2003. Article 13 This Decision shall apply from 1 January 2001 to 31 December 2004. Done at Luxembourg, 27 June 2001. For the European Parliament The President N. Fontaine For the Council B. Rosengren (1) OJ C 56 E, 29.2.2000, p. 68. (2) OJ C 204, 18.7.2000, p. 35. (3) OJ C 317, 6.11.2000, p. 33. (4) Opinion of the European Parliament of 14 December 2000 (not yet published in the Official Journal) and Council Decision of 18 June 2001. (5) OJ L 275, 10.10.1998, p. 1. (6) OJ C 138, 17.5.1993, p. 5. (7) OJ C 226, 20.7.1998, pp. 34 and 36 and OJ C 279, 1.10.1999, p. 44. (8) OJ C 51, 22.2.1999, p. 21. (9) OJ C 251, 10.8.1998, p. 11. (10) OJ C 172, 18.6.1999, p. 1. (11) OJ L 184, 17.7.1999, p. 23. (12) OJ L 161, 26.6.1999, p. 1.
Article 7 
The projects shall contribute towards the objectives mentioned in Article 1 and shall be selected on the basis of the following general criteria: (a) a sound cost-benefit ratio; (b) a lasting multiplier effect at European level; (c) effective and balanced cooperation among the various partners with regard to programming and carrying out activities, and financial participation; (d) a share of financial participation; (e) a contribution to a multinational approach, and in particular to transfrontier cooperation within the Community and, where appropriate, beyond its frontiers with neighbouring countries; (f) a contribution to an integrated multisectoral approach and to sustainable urban development, taking into account its social, economic and environmental dimensions; (g) the degree of involvement of all the partners, including the representatives of civil society; (h) a contribution to strengthening and revitalising public services of general interest. Article 8 This cooperation framework shall be open to participation by networks of local authorities including cities and towns in Central and Eastern European Countries, Cyprus and Malta, as well as in other countries which have concluded association agreements with the Community. Article 9 1. In order to ensure the success of the activities carried out by the beneficiaries of Community support, the Commission shall take the necessary measures to: (a) verify that activities proposed to the Commission have been carried out properly; (b) prevent and take action against irregularities; (c) recover, where appropriate, sums improperly received. 2. Without prejudice to the financial audit carried out by the Court of Auditors pursuant to Article 248 of the Treaty or inspections carried out pursuant to point (c) of Article 279 of the Treaty, officials and other staff of the Commission may carry out on-the-spot checks, including sample checks, on activities funded in this cooperation framework. The Commission shall inform beneficiaries in advance of any on-the-spot check, unless there are good reasons to suspect fraud or improper use of the aid. 3. Beneficiaries of financial support shall keep available for the Commission all supporting documents regarding expenditure on an activity for a period of five years following the last payment in respect of that activity. These may also be held in electronic format. Article 10 1. The Commission may reduce, suspend or recover the financial support granted through a contract if it finds irregularities or if it learns that the contract has been subject to a change, without its approval, which conflicts with the agreed objectives or implementing conditions. 2. If the deadlines have not been observed or if only part of the financial support allocated is justified by the progress with implementation of a contract, the Commission shall request the beneficiary to submit any explanations within a specified period. If the beneficiary does not provide a satisfactory answer, the Commission may cancel the remaining financial aid and demand prompt repayment of sums already paid. The Commission undertakes to carry out a thorough and speedy evaluation of such explanations. 3. Beneficiaries shall submit to the Commission annual progress reports for contracts of more than one year and a financial report for each contract within six months of its completion. The Commission shall determine the form and content of the reports. If the reports are not submitted within the time-limits laid down, the beneficiary shall no longer be eligible for subsequent funding under this Decision. The Commission undertakes to evaluate the reports within a reasonable time-limit to avoid unnecessary delays in payments. 4. Any undue payment shall be repaid to the Commission. Interest may be added to sums not repaid in good time. The Commission shall lay down the detailed rules for implementing this paragraph. Article 11 1. The Commission shall be assisted by an advisory committee. 2. Where reference is made to this paragraph, Articles 3 and 7 of Council Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, having regard to the provisions of Article 8 thereof. 3. The committee shall adopt its rules of procedure. Article 12 The Commission shall assess the implementation of this cooperation framework and shall submit a report in this connection to the European Parliament and to the Council no later than 31 March 2003. Article 13 This Decision shall apply from 1 January 2001 to 31 December 2004. Done at Luxembourg, 27 June 2001. For the European Parliament The President N. Fontaine For the Council B. Rosengren (1) OJ C 56 E, 29.2.2000, p. 68. (2) OJ C 204, 18.7.2000, p. 35. (3) OJ C 317, 6.11.2000, p. 33. (4) Opinion of the European Parliament of 14 December 2000 (not yet published in the Official Journal) and Council Decision of 18 June 2001. (5) OJ L 275, 10.10.1998, p. 1. (6) OJ C 138, 17.5.1993, p. 5. (7) OJ C 226, 20.7.1998, pp. 34 and 36 and OJ C 279, 1.10.1999, p. 44. (8) OJ C 51, 22.2.1999, p. 21. (9) OJ C 251, 10.8.1998, p. 11. (10) OJ C 172, 18.6.1999, p. 1. (11) OJ L 184, 17.7.1999, p. 23. (12) OJ L 161, 26.6.1999, p. 1.
Article 8 
This cooperation framework shall be open to participation by networks of local authorities including cities and towns in Central and Eastern European Countries, Cyprus and Malta, as well as in other countries which have concluded association agreements with the Community. Article 9 1. In order to ensure the success of the activities carried out by the beneficiaries of Community support, the Commission shall take the necessary measures to: (a) verify that activities proposed to the Commission have been carried out properly; (b) prevent and take action against irregularities; (c) recover, where appropriate, sums improperly received. 2. Without prejudice to the financial audit carried out by the Court of Auditors pursuant to Article 248 of the Treaty or inspections carried out pursuant to point (c) of Article 279 of the Treaty, officials and other staff of the Commission may carry out on-the-spot checks, including sample checks, on activities funded in this cooperation framework. The Commission shall inform beneficiaries in advance of any on-the-spot check, unless there are good reasons to suspect fraud or improper use of the aid. 3. Beneficiaries of financial support shall keep available for the Commission all supporting documents regarding expenditure on an activity for a period of five years following the last payment in respect of that activity. These may also be held in electronic format. Article 10 1. The Commission may reduce, suspend or recover the financial support granted through a contract if it finds irregularities or if it learns that the contract has been subject to a change, without its approval, which conflicts with the agreed objectives or implementing conditions. 2. If the deadlines have not been observed or if only part of the financial support allocated is justified by the progress with implementation of a contract, the Commission shall request the beneficiary to submit any explanations within a specified period. If the beneficiary does not provide a satisfactory answer, the Commission may cancel the remaining financial aid and demand prompt repayment of sums already paid. The Commission undertakes to carry out a thorough and speedy evaluation of such explanations. 3. Beneficiaries shall submit to the Commission annual progress reports for contracts of more than one year and a financial report for each contract within six months of its completion. The Commission shall determine the form and content of the reports. If the reports are not submitted within the time-limits laid down, the beneficiary shall no longer be eligible for subsequent funding under this Decision. The Commission undertakes to evaluate the reports within a reasonable time-limit to avoid unnecessary delays in payments. 4. Any undue payment shall be repaid to the Commission. Interest may be added to sums not repaid in good time. The Commission shall lay down the detailed rules for implementing this paragraph. Article 11 1. The Commission shall be assisted by an advisory committee. 2. Where reference is made to this paragraph, Articles 3 and 7 of Council Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, having regard to the provisions of Article 8 thereof. 3. The committee shall adopt its rules of procedure. Article 12 The Commission shall assess the implementation of this cooperation framework and shall submit a report in this connection to the European Parliament and to the Council no later than 31 March 2003. Article 13 This Decision shall apply from 1 January 2001 to 31 December 2004. Done at Luxembourg, 27 June 2001. For the European Parliament The President N. Fontaine For the Council B. Rosengren (1) OJ C 56 E, 29.2.2000, p. 68. (2) OJ C 204, 18.7.2000, p. 35. (3) OJ C 317, 6.11.2000, p. 33. (4) Opinion of the European Parliament of 14 December 2000 (not yet published in the Official Journal) and Council Decision of 18 June 2001. (5) OJ L 275, 10.10.1998, p. 1. (6) OJ C 138, 17.5.1993, p. 5. (7) OJ C 226, 20.7.1998, pp. 34 and 36 and OJ C 279, 1.10.1999, p. 44. (8) OJ C 51, 22.2.1999, p. 21. (9) OJ C 251, 10.8.1998, p. 11. (10) OJ C 172, 18.6.1999, p. 1. (11) OJ L 184, 17.7.1999, p. 23. (12) OJ L 161, 26.6.1999, p. 1.
Article 9 
1. In order to ensure the success of the activities carried out by the beneficiaries of Community support, the Commission shall take the necessary measures to: (a) verify that activities proposed to the Commission have been carried out properly; (b) prevent and take action against irregularities; (c) recover, where appropriate, sums improperly received. 2. Without prejudice to the financial audit carried out by the Court of Auditors pursuant to Article 248 of the Treaty or inspections carried out pursuant to point (c) of Article 279 of the Treaty, officials and other staff of the Commission may carry out on-the-spot checks, including sample checks, on activities funded in this cooperation framework. The Commission shall inform beneficiaries in advance of any on-the-spot check, unless there are good reasons to suspect fraud or improper use of the aid. 3. Beneficiaries of financial support shall keep available for the Commission all supporting documents regarding expenditure on an activity for a period of five years following the last payment in respect of that activity. These may also be held in electronic format. Article 10 1. The Commission may reduce, suspend or recover the financial support granted through a contract if it finds irregularities or if it learns that the contract has been subject to a change, without its approval, which conflicts with the agreed objectives or implementing conditions. 2. If the deadlines have not been observed or if only part of the financial support allocated is justified by the progress with implementation of a contract, the Commission shall request the beneficiary to submit any explanations within a specified period. If the beneficiary does not provide a satisfactory answer, the Commission may cancel the remaining financial aid and demand prompt repayment of sums already paid. The Commission undertakes to carry out a thorough and speedy evaluation of such explanations. 3. Beneficiaries shall submit to the Commission annual progress reports for contracts of more than one year and a financial report for each contract within six months of its completion. The Commission shall determine the form and content of the reports. If the reports are not submitted within the time-limits laid down, the beneficiary shall no longer be eligible for subsequent funding under this Decision. The Commission undertakes to evaluate the reports within a reasonable time-limit to avoid unnecessary delays in payments. 4. Any undue payment shall be repaid to the Commission. Interest may be added to sums not repaid in good time. The Commission shall lay down the detailed rules for implementing this paragraph. Article 11 1. The Commission shall be assisted by an advisory committee. 2. Where reference is made to this paragraph, Articles 3 and 7 of Council Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, having regard to the provisions of Article 8 thereof. 3. The committee shall adopt its rules of procedure. Article 12 The Commission shall assess the implementation of this cooperation framework and shall submit a report in this connection to the European Parliament and to the Council no later than 31 March 2003. Article 13 This Decision shall apply from 1 January 2001 to 31 December 2004. Done at Luxembourg, 27 June 2001. For the European Parliament The President N. Fontaine For the Council B. Rosengren (1) OJ C 56 E, 29.2.2000, p. 68. (2) OJ C 204, 18.7.2000, p. 35. (3) OJ C 317, 6.11.2000, p. 33. (4) Opinion of the European Parliament of 14 December 2000 (not yet published in the Official Journal) and Council Decision of 18 June 2001. (5) OJ L 275, 10.10.1998, p. 1. (6) OJ C 138, 17.5.1993, p. 5. (7) OJ C 226, 20.7.1998, pp. 34 and 36 and OJ C 279, 1.10.1999, p. 44. (8) OJ C 51, 22.2.1999, p. 21. (9) OJ C 251, 10.8.1998, p. 11. (10) OJ C 172, 18.6.1999, p. 1. (11) OJ L 184, 17.7.1999, p. 23. (12) OJ L 161, 26.6.1999, p. 1.
Article 10 
1. The Commission may reduce, suspend or recover the financial support granted through a contract if it finds irregularities or if it learns that the contract has been subject to a change, without its approval, which conflicts with the agreed objectives or implementing conditions. 2. If the deadlines have not been observed or if only part of the financial support allocated is justified by the progress with implementation of a contract, the Commission shall request the beneficiary to submit any explanations within a specified period. If the beneficiary does not provide a satisfactory answer, the Commission may cancel the remaining financial aid and demand prompt repayment of sums already paid. The Commission undertakes to carry out a thorough and speedy evaluation of such explanations. 3. Beneficiaries shall submit to the Commission annual progress reports for contracts of more than one year and a financial report for each contract within six months of its completion. The Commission shall determine the form and content of the reports. If the reports are not submitted within the time-limits laid down, the beneficiary shall no longer be eligible for subsequent funding under this Decision. The Commission undertakes to evaluate the reports within a reasonable time-limit to avoid unnecessary delays in payments. 4. Any undue payment shall be repaid to the Commission. Interest may be added to sums not repaid in good time. The Commission shall lay down the detailed rules for implementing this paragraph. Article 11 1. The Commission shall be assisted by an advisory committee. 2. Where reference is made to this paragraph, Articles 3 and 7 of Council Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, having regard to the provisions of Article 8 thereof. 3. The committee shall adopt its rules of procedure. Article 12 The Commission shall assess the implementation of this cooperation framework and shall submit a report in this connection to the European Parliament and to the Council no later than 31 March 2003. Article 13 This Decision shall apply from 1 January 2001 to 31 December 2004. Done at Luxembourg, 27 June 2001. For the European Parliament The President N. Fontaine For the Council B. Rosengren (1) OJ C 56 E, 29.2.2000, p. 68. (2) OJ C 204, 18.7.2000, p. 35. (3) OJ C 317, 6.11.2000, p. 33. (4) Opinion of the European Parliament of 14 December 2000 (not yet published in the Official Journal) and Council Decision of 18 June 2001. (5) OJ L 275, 10.10.1998, p. 1. (6) OJ C 138, 17.5.1993, p. 5. (7) OJ C 226, 20.7.1998, pp. 34 and 36 and OJ C 279, 1.10.1999, p. 44. (8) OJ C 51, 22.2.1999, p. 21. (9) OJ C 251, 10.8.1998, p. 11. (10) OJ C 172, 18.6.1999, p. 1. (11) OJ L 184, 17.7.1999, p. 23. (12) OJ L 161, 26.6.1999, p. 1.
Article 11 
1. The Commission shall be assisted by an advisory committee. 2. Where reference is made to this paragraph, Articles 3 and 7 of Council Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, having regard to the provisions of Article 8 thereof. 3. The committee shall adopt its rules of procedure. Article 12 The Commission shall assess the implementation of this cooperation framework and shall submit a report in this connection to the European Parliament and to the Council no later than 31 March 2003. Article 13 This Decision shall apply from 1 January 2001 to 31 December 2004. Done at Luxembourg, 27 June 2001. For the European Parliament The President N. Fontaine For the Council B. Rosengren (1) OJ C 56 E, 29.2.2000, p. 68. (2) OJ C 204, 18.7.2000, p. 35. (3) OJ C 317, 6.11.2000, p. 33. (4) Opinion of the European Parliament of 14 December 2000 (not yet published in the Official Journal) and Council Decision of 18 June 2001. (5) OJ L 275, 10.10.1998, p. 1. (6) OJ C 138, 17.5.1993, p. 5. (7) OJ C 226, 20.7.1998, pp. 34 and 36 and OJ C 279, 1.10.1999, p. 44. (8) OJ C 51, 22.2.1999, p. 21. (9) OJ C 251, 10.8.1998, p. 11. (10) OJ C 172, 18.6.1999, p. 1. (11) OJ L 184, 17.7.1999, p. 23. (12) OJ L 161, 26.6.1999, p. 1.
Article 12 
The Commission shall assess the implementation of this cooperation framework and shall submit a report in this connection to the European Parliament and to the Council no later than 31 March 2003. Article 13 This Decision shall apply from 1 January 2001 to 31 December 2004. Done at Luxembourg, 27 June 2001. For the European Parliament The President N. Fontaine For the Council B. Rosengren (1) OJ C 56 E, 29.2.2000, p. 68. (2) OJ C 204, 18.7.2000, p. 35. (3) OJ C 317, 6.11.2000, p. 33. (4) Opinion of the European Parliament of 14 December 2000 (not yet published in the Official Journal) and Council Decision of 18 June 2001. (5) OJ L 275, 10.10.1998, p. 1. (6) OJ C 138, 17.5.1993, p. 5. (7) OJ C 226, 20.7.1998, pp. 34 and 36 and OJ C 279, 1.10.1999, p. 44. (8) OJ C 51, 22.2.1999, p. 21. (9) OJ C 251, 10.8.1998, p. 11. (10) OJ C 172, 18.6.1999, p. 1. (11) OJ L 184, 17.7.1999, p. 23. (12) OJ L 161, 26.6.1999, p. 1.
Article 13 
This Decision shall apply from 1 January 2001 to 31 December 2004. Done at Luxembourg, 27 June 2001