European Council

On 19 December 2016, the Council prolonged the economic sanctions targeting specific sectors of the Russian economy until 31 July 2017.

These measures were introduced on 31 July 2014 initially for one year in response to Russia's actions destabilising the situation in Ukraine. They were reinforced in September 2014. They target the financial, energy and defence sectors, and the area of dual-use goods.

On 19 March 2015, the European Council agreed to link the duration of the sanctions to the complete implementation of the Minsk agreements, which was foreseen to take place by 31 December 2015.

Since the Minsk agreements were not fully implemented by 31 December 2015, the Council extended the sanctions until 31 July 2016, and on 1 July 2016, until 31 January 2017. Having assessed the implementation of the Minsk agreements at the European Council meeting of 15 December, the EU heads of state and government paved the way to renew the sanctions for a further six months, until 31 July 2017. The Council formalised this decision on 19 December 2016 by written procedure and as it is the rule for all decisions on prolongation of restrictive measures, unanimously.

The economic sanctions prolonged by this decision notably:

• limit access to EU primary and secondary capital markets for 5 major Russian majority state-owned financial institutions and their majority-owned subsidiaries established outside of the EU, as well as three major Russian energy and three defence companies
• impose an export and import ban on trade in arms
• establish an export ban for dual-use goods for military use or military end users in Russia
• curtail Russian access to certain sensitive technologies and services  that can be used for oil production and exploration

In addition to these economic sanctions, several EU measures are also in place in response to the crisis in Ukraine including:

• targeted individual restrictive measures, namely a visa ban and an asset freeze, currently against 152 people and 37 entities until 15 March 2017;
• restrictive measures in response to the illegal annexation of Crimea and Sevastopol, limited to the territory of Crimea and Sevastopol, currently in place until 23 June 2017.

On 20 December 2016, the Permanent Representatives Committee (Coreper) confirmed, on behalf of the Council, the agreement reached on 13 December with the European Parliament on visa liberalisation for Georgia.

The agreement provides for visa-free travel for EU citizens when travelling to the territory of Georgia and for citizens of this country when travelling to the EU, for a period of stay of 90 days in any 180-day period.

The institutions take the view that the entry into force of visa liberalisation for Georgia should be at the same time as the entry into force of the new "suspension mechanism".

"The Council has demonstrated its strong commitment to visa-free travel for Georgian citizens, taking into account Georgia's hard work. The Presidency believes that the path of credible reforms is the right one and should be encouraged. It was the recent upgrade of the suspension mechanism that allowed us to inject a new momentum into talks on visa liberalisation with countries fulfilling all criteria. At the same time, this upgrade will help ensure that those criteria will continue to be met."

Robert Kaliňák, Minister for the Interior of Slovakia and President of the Council.Next steps

Now that the agreement has been confirmed by the Permanent Representatives Committee, on behalf of the Council, the regulation will be submitted to the European Parliament for a vote at first reading, and to the Council for adoption.

Background

The proposal for visa liberalisation for Georgia was published by the Commission on 9 March 2016. The Commission concluded that the country had met all the benchmarks for the exemption of the visa requirement.

Once the new visa regime for Georgia is formally adopted, it will  move the country from Annex I of Regulation 539/2001 (countries whose nationals need a visa to enter the Schengen area) to Annex II of the same regulation (visa free countries), thus providing for visa-free travel for EU citizens when travelling to the territory of Georgia and for citizens of this country when travelling to the EU, for a period of stay of 90 days in any 180-day period.

In the context of the current migratory situation in the European Union and taking into account the Commission's proposals for visa liberalisation of Georgia, Ukraine, Turkey and Kosovo and the discussions with member states, the Commission decided on 4 May 2016 to present a proposal to amend Regulation 539/2001 to revise the current suspension mechanism.

The Council and the European Parliament reached an agreement on the new suspension mechanism on 7 December 2016.

Ireland and the United Kingdom will not be subject to the application of these measures, in accordance with the protocols annexed to the EU treaties. The visa regime of these member states remains subject to their national legislation.

On 20 December 2016, the Permanent Representatives Committee (Coreper) confirmed, on behalf of the Council, the agreement reached with the European Parliament on the proposal for a directive on control of the acquisition and possession of weapons, which reviews and completes existing directive 91/477/EEC.

"Current European laws on firearms have been in place since 1991 and in the aftermath of the series of terrorist attacks in Europe, the need to address shortcomings in existing legislation has become ever more urgent " said Robert Kaliňák, Minister for the Interior of Slovakia and President of the Council. "This agreement provides for tighter controls which will help prevent the acquisition of firearms by terrorist and criminal organisations"

 Robert Kaliňák, Minister for the Interior of Slovakia and President of the Council

The amendments which address risks for public safety and security focus on: 

Enhanced traceability of firearms 

The revision strengthens the rules on marking of firearms, by providing, among other things, for a new obligation to also mark all their essential components. This harmonization of the rules for the marking of firearms and establishing the mutual recognition of marks among Member States will improve the traceability of firearms used in criminal activities, including those which have been assembled from components acquired separately. 

In turn, this information also has to be recorded in national data-filing systems. For this to happen, member states will now have to ensure that dealers and brokers register any transaction with firearms by electronic means and without any undue delay. 

Measures on deactivation and reactivation or conversion of firearms 

The rules for deactivation of firearms have been strengthened, especially by providing for the classification of deactivated firearms under the so-called category C, that is, firearms subject to declaration. Until now, deactivated firearms have not been subject to the requirements set by the directive. 

Moreover, the revision includes a new category of salute and acoustic weapons. These are live firearms that have been converted to blank firing ones, for example, for use in theatres or television. These weapons were so far not included in the scope of the directive, and so they posed a serious risk for security: in the absence of more stringent national provisions, such firearms could be purchased freely. Given that their reconversion to live ones was often possible with limited efforts, this posed a risk. For example, such firearms have been used in the Paris terrorist attacks. The new wording of the directive ensures that these weapons remain registered under the same category as the firearm from which they have been converted. 

Banning civilian use of the most dangerous semi-automatic firearms 

Besides strengthening the rules for their acquisition, some dangerous semi-automatic firearms have now been added to category A and thus prohibited for civilian use. This is the case of short semi-automatic firearms with loading devices over 20 rounds and long semi-automatic firearms with loading devices over 10 rounds. Similarly, long firearms that can be easily concealed, for example by means of a folding or telescopic stock, will now also be prohibited. 

Stricter rules for the acquisition and possession of the most dangerous firearms 

The most dangerous firearms of category A can only be acquired and possessed on the basis of an exemption granted by the relevant member state. The rules for granting such exemptions have now been significantly strengthened. Possible grounds, such as national defence or protection of critical infrastructures, are now set out in a limitative list and the exemption may only be granted where this is not contrary to public security or public order. 

When a firearm of category A is required for a sports-shooting discipline, it can only be acquired under strict rules relating among other things to proven practice recognised by an official shooting sport federation. 

Concurrently provision of article 7 para 4a gives the possibility to confirm authorisations for semi-automatic firearms (new point 6, 7 or 8 of category A) legally acquired and registered before this directive will come in force.

Improving the exchange of relevant information between member states

A new provision has been added, according to which the Commission shall provide for a delegated act to set up a common system for Member States for systematic exchange of information by electronic means which strengthening the data collection system and examining the interoperability between information systems created at national level.. This information will concern the authorisations granted for the transfer of firearms to another member state and information with regard to refusals to grant authorisations to acquire and possess firearms. 

The directive sets out minimum rules and does not prevent member states from adopting and applying stricter rules. 

Next steps

Now that the agreement has been confirmed by the Permanent Representatives Committee, on behalf of the Council, the directive will be submitted to the European Parliament for a vote at first reading, and to the Council for adoption. The Council will inform the Parliament formally via the usual letter, with a view to reaching an agreement at first reading.

Background

Council directive 91/477/EEC on control of the acquisition and possession of weapons was originally designed as a measure to balance internal market objectives and security imperatives regarding "civil" firearms. 

The amending proposal was submitted by the European Commission on 18 November 2015 against the backdrop of a series of terrorist acts that took place in Europe and which brought to light gaps in the implementation of the directive.  The current review is a continuation of the 2008 revision and also aligns EU legislation with the provisions on the UN Protocol against the Illicit Manufacturing of and Trafficking in Firearms. 

Saturday 17 December 2016
Wrocław (Poland)
17.15 Speech at the closing ceremony of the European Capital of Culture Wrocław 2016

Tuesday 20 December 2016
13.00 Meeting with European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker (Berlaymont)

We, the participants of the EU-Western Balkans Ministerial Forum on Justice and Home Affairs in Brdo on 15-16 December 2016, acknowledge the pressing need to counter the illicit trafficking and accumulation of firearms, their parts and essential components and ammunition in the Western Balkans and the EU and reaffirm our strong commitment to work together towards joint solutions, in order to address common security challenges affecting both the EU and the whole of the Western Balkans region. 

Building on the common priorities identified in the Action Plan on Illicit Trafficking of Firearms 2015-2019 we adopted in 2014, and the EU Strategy on Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW), which identified the Western Balkans as a main priority, we are committed to implement the following actions and pursue the following goals: 

• Systematically associate Western Balkans partners in operational actions related to the Western Balkans in the context of the EU policy cycle priorities on the fight against firearms trafficking
• Set up joint investigative teams, coherently with the initiatives aiming at enhancing operational law enforcement cooperation.
• Carry out at least one joint action per year focused on the illicit trafficking in firearms and explosives with the participation of law enforcement agencies of EU Member States and Western Balkan partners and the involvement of Europol and European Border and Coast Guard.
• Enhance the exchange of  information  at regional level and with EU Member States, involving Europol on the illicit production, stockpiling and trafficking of firearms and ammunition, as well as explosives and precursors, aiming also to develop more effective investigative and intelligence standards.
• Explore voluntary surrender firearms programs throughout the Western Balkans, taking into the account the lessons learned from previous experiences. 
• Welcome the future secondment of liaison officers by Europol in the region.
• Enhancing security and safety of stockpiles, taking into account that unauthorized access to stockpiles of firearms, ammunition, explosives and precursors should be vigorously prevented and all transgressions promptly investigated and sanctioned.
• Support CEPOL dedicated common training programs to strengthen capacity building and awareness about the fight against illicit trafficking in firearms.
• Extend the use of all available tools for tracing firearms, including iTRACE, iARMS and the Europol's databases while ensuring the full use of the Europol Focal Point on weapons and explosives.
• Improve the collection and exchange of statistics concerning illicit production, and trafficking of firearms and ammunition.
• Make full use of the EU supported South-Eastern and Eastern Europe Clearinghouse for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (SEESAC).

Regular assessment of the implementation of the above mentioned actions is necessary so as to allow the EU Member States to leverage this information in the framework of the EU Policy Cycle. Participants of the 2017 EU-Western Balkans Ministerial Forum on Justice and Home Affairs are invited to make an assessment of achievements in the above mentioned areas. 

Done at Brdo on 15-16 December 2016

The Council has agreed its negotiating stance on amendments to EU rules aimed at boosting investment in venture capital and social enterprises.

On 16 December 2016, the Permanent Representatives Committee, on behalf of the Council, asked the incoming presidency to start talks with the European Parliament, once the Parliament has agreed its stance.

The proposed regulation is part of the EU's plan to develop a fully functioning capital markets union, diversifying funding sources for Europe's businesses and long-term projects. It is also linked to the EU's investment plan for Europe.

"We need to develop new possibilities for financing European start-ups, innovative SMEs and social enterprises.  Access to venture capital and social entrepreneurship capital is key for this segment of the economy."

Peter Kažimír, Slovak minister for finance and president of the Council
Two types of funds

The proposal sets out to make European venture capital funds (Euveca) and European social entrepreneurship funds (Eusef) available to fund managers of all sizes. Amending regulations 345/2013 and 346/2013, it expands the range of companies that Euveca and Eusef funds can invest in. It also makes the cross-border marketing of such funds cheaper and easier.

Euveca and Eusef fund structures were created in 2013 to offer new opportunities for raising capital to, respectively:

• young and innovative companies;
• enterprises whose aim is to achieve a positive social impact.

Regulations 345/2013 and 346/2013 lay down requirements for managers of collective investment undertakings that wish to use the Euveca and Eusef designations for the marketing of their funds.

The funding gap

The availability of financing for SMEs is an important factor behind their growth and development, yet banks are not always able to support their financing needs. The funding gap has been repeatedly cited as an obstacle to economic growth.

The EU is falling further behind the United States as concerns the venture capital market. According to the Commission, if EU venture capital markets had been as developed as in the US, €90 billion would have been available for financing companies between 2009 and 2014.

Amendments

As agreed by the Council, the main amendments to regulations 345/2013 and 346/2013 involve:

• enabling larger fund managers, i.e. those with assets under management of more than €500 million, to market and manage Euveca and Eusef funds;
• expanding the range of companies in which Euveca funds can invest, including unlisted companies with up to 499 employees (small mid-caps) and SMEs listed on SME growth markets.

Procedure

The regulation requires a qualified majority for adoption by the Council, in agreement with the Parliament. (Legal basis: article 114 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union.)

Regulations 345/2013 and 346/2013 were normally due for review in 2017, but the Commission decided to bring forward that review. It identified a number of factors holding back the development of Euveca and Eusef funds that are addressed in its proposal.

Place:
Justus Lipsius building, Brussels 

Chair:
László Sólymos, Minister for the Environment of Slovakia 

All times are approximate and subject to change 

+/- 08.30
Arrivals 

+/- 08.45
Doorstep by Minister László Sólymos 

+/- 09.30
Beginning of Environment Council meeting (Roundtable)
Adoption of the agenda
Adoption of non-legislative A items
Adoption of legislative A items (public session)          

+/- 09.45
ETS revision (public session)              

Any other business:
- Non-ETS (public session)
- Clean Energy For All Europeans
- Reports on recent international meetings: Marrakesh climate conference 

Chemicals, human health and the environment (public session) 

Any other business:
- Sustainable European future
- European Sustainable Development Week

+/- 13.00     Press conference (live streaming) 

+/- 13.30
Lunch: Sustainable development (Agenda 2030 and SDGs) 

+/- 15.00
Any other business: environment
- Fitness check of the EU nature legislation (Birds and Habitats Directives)
- Reports on recent international meetings
- Circular economy: waste package (public session)
- REFIT evaluation of the EU Ecolabel
- Budapest Water Summit 2016 
- Odour nuisance
- Work programme of the incoming Maltese presidency

Let me start with Syria. Today I invited the chairman of the local Council in Aleppo to personally address the leaders so that the voice of the people of Aleppo is heard, at least in this symbolic way. To be clear, faced with the brutality of the Syrian regime and its supporters, notably Russia and Iran, we are not as effective as we would like to be. But we are not indifferent to the suffering of the Syrian people. We will exert pressure on other global players who are present in Syria using all available diplomatic channels. The aim is clear: the immediate opening of humanitarian corridors to allow aid into Aleppo, and for civilians to be evacuated safely under neutral, international supervision. There must be full and unrestricted access for all medical personnel and aid workers. The protection of civilians is the absolute priority.

Another point on the agenda was migration. Leaders stressed their commitment to implement the EU-Turkey Statement, which also requires continued efforts from Turkey. High Representative Mogherini reported progress with African countries. For example, our partnership with Niger is reducing the numbers of people using smugglers to get to Libya. But we know that more needs to be done, and so we will discuss Libya and our approach to the Central Mediterranean route at our next informal summit in Malta in February. As for the reform of the common asylum system, Prime Minister Muscat will continue this work under his presidency. The aim will be to achieve consensus.

As regards Ukraine, we did what we could to help save the Association Agreement that has been ratified already by 27 Member States and the European Parliament. We have adopted a legally binding decision of the leaders to facilitate the ratification in the Netherlands. This decision addresses all the concerns expressed by the Dutch voters earlier this year. Now the responsibility lies with the Netherlands. The ratification is important not only for Ukraine, but also for Europe's geopolitical standing and credibility. We are counting on our Dutch colleagues.

Today we also agreed to step up our work on security and defence, in partnership with NATO. It is evident that Europe needs to do more to fulfil our international responsibilities and to protect our own citizens,. We committed to increase cooperation and to allocate more resources to security and defence.

Moving on to Brexit, the EU27 had a short informal meeting where we finalized procedural arrangements and reconfirmed our principles, meaning the indivisibility of the four freedoms, the balance of rights and obligations and the rule "no negotiations without notification". We adopted the organisational structure with the European Council maintaining political control over the process, and the Commission as the Union's negotiator. And Michel Barnier as the Commission's Chief Negotiator.

Finally, let me thank Prime Minister Fico and his team for a very successful and productive presidency. Not only did you host the historic EU27 summit in Bratislava, but thanks to your professionalism you have also succeeded in making a number of promises from Bratislava a reality. To give a few examples, the Council agreement on the Trade Defence Instruments, the Visa Suspension Mechanism and the Schengen Borders Code. So let me conclude by again thanking Robert and the entire Slovak Presidency for a great performance.

On 15 December 2016 the European Council adopted conclusions on Ukraine.

On 16 December, the Permanent Representatives Committee (Coreper) endorsed, on behalf of the Council, a deal with the European Parliament on a draft regulation on mercury. The new rules aim to enhance the protection against the pollution by this highly toxic substance. 

The text was agreed by the Council's presidency and the European Parliament during a trilogue meeting on 6 December 2016. 

Mercury represents a global and major threat to human health, including through the presence of its compound methylmercury in fish and seafood. Once emitted into the air or the water, mercury can travel long distances. That is why mercury pollution needs to be tackled at international level. 

Minamata Convention 

The changes agreed will ensure EU legislation is aligned with international rules as set out in the Minamata Convention. This will allow for swift EU ratification of the text and therefore pave the way for its entry into force. 

Mercury pollution is found all around the globe, even in virgin lands very remote from pollution sources. This proves how dangerous and global this pollution is. Today we have shown that we remain committed to halting mercury pollution. This deal will enable a swift ratification of the Minamata Convention by the EU. 

László Sólymos, Slovak Environment Minister and President of the Council 

First of all let me thank you for your visit and for this opportunity to listen to you. Honestly speaking, I have nothing to add to what has been said or written about the tragedy of your city, Aleppo.

The last thing your people in Aleppo need today is more words of sympathy. The only thing you need today is real and effective protection and assistance. I am absolutely aware of this fact. Your words, the words of the people of Aleppo and the facts are much more powerful than any of our words or declarations. Our main goal today is to protect as effectively as possible your civilians in Aleppo.

Please believe me, no-one is indifferent in the EU. I am talking about people, institutions, politicians. There are some global limitations and problems, but this is what we want to do, to be more effective when it comes to protection and assistance. We should and we will try to do everything we can to help you and the civilians in Aleppo.

After the informal meeting held on 15 December 2016 in Brussels, the 27 heads of state or government and Presidents of the European Council and Commission issued the following statement. 

On 15 December 2016 the European Council adopted conclusions on migration and Cyprus.

The European Council on 15 December 2016 adopted conclusions on migration, security, economic and social development, youth, Cyprus, and external relations.

Following the referendum in Denmark on 3 December 2015, we agree on the need for operational arrangements, minimising the negative impact of Denmark's departure from Europol on 1 May 2017, for the mutual benefit of Denmark and the rest of the European Union in the combatting of cross-border serious and organised crime and international terrorism. Such arrangements must be Denmark-specific, and not in any way equal full membership of Europol, i.e. provide access to Europol's data repositories, or for full participation in Europol's operational work and database, or give decision-making rights in the governing bodies of Europol. However, it should ensure a sufficient level of operational cooperation including exchange of relevant data, subject to adequate safeguards.

This arrangement would be conditioned on Denmark's continued membership of the European Union and of the Schengen area, on Denmark's obligation to fully implement in Danish law Directive 2016/680/EU on data protection in police matters by 1 May 2017 and on Denmark's agreement to the application of the jurisdiction of the European Court of Justice and the competence of the European Data Protection Supervisor.

The Commission and Denmark will endeavour to initiate the necessary legal procedure as rapidly as possible and take all necessary actions, including contacts with relevant institutional actors, to ensure a swift process with a view to the new arrangements being in place by 1 May 2017 or as rapidly as possible thereafter. This is to limit to the maximum extent possible the gap between 1 May 2017 and the entry into force of the future operational agreement, in order to minimise the negative impact on cooperation and data exchange.

We acknowledge that the only way for Denmark to fully participate in the new Europol Regulation by 1 May 2017 is to make use of the procedure foreseen in Protocol No 22 to the Treaty on the European Union and the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union.

The third meeting of the EU−Ukraine Association Council will take place on 19 December 2016 in Brussels.

The meeting will be chaired by High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Federica Mogherini, on behalf of the European Union. Ukraine will be represented by its Prime Minister Volodymyr Groysman.

A press conference will take place after the meeting, on Monday 19 December at 11.30 in the Justus Lipsius building (main press room). A specific accreditation is needed to attend the press conference and all media opportunities.

The Association Council will discuss relations between the EU and Ukraine, specifically on:

• Political dialogue and reform, political association;
• Justice, freedom and security;
• Economic and sectoral cooperation, as well as trade and trade-related matters,  

The EU High Representative and the Prime Minister of Ukraine will also discuss more specifically developments related to Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as the EU global strategy and regional issues.

Programme - including media opportunities and information on media accreditation

• 08.10 Arrival of Prime Minister of Ukraine Volodymyr Groysman, welcome by High Representative F. Mogherini, VIP entrance, level 02 - photo/video opportunity (*)
• 08.30 Working breakfast
• 09.30 Association Council - plenary session
  Roundtable - photo/video opportunity (*)
• 11.30 Press Conference by High Representative F. Mogherini and Prime Minister of Ukraine Volodymyr Groysman (*)live streaming

Journalists holding a 6-month badge (30.06.2016 - 31.12.2016) or a European Council badge (15.12.16) do not need to register. 6-month badges and European Council badges can be collected at the accreditation centre of the LEX building (14/12 from 9.30 to 13.00 and 14.00 to 19.00 - 15/12 from 8.00 to 20.00).

Other journalists must register by e-mail before Friday 16 December 13.00 to : press.centre@consilium.europa.eu, including copy of their ID and valid press card or assignment letter.

On 14 December 2016 the Slovak presidency reached an informal agreement with the European Parliament on the coordinated use of a key frequency band that will allow for higher speeds and better access to mobile internet across Europe. At the same time, the deal addresses the need for spectrum for broadcasting purposes. The outcome of the talks will be submitted for approval by member states at the beginning of 2017.

Árpád Érsek, the Slovak Minister for Transport, Construction and Regional Development, said: "Spectrum is a precious resource that must be used wisely and strategically. Releasing of 700 MHz frequency band for wireless broadband is a win-win solution for digital industry, audio-visual sector, as well as for all consumers. It brings long-term regulatory certainty and is essential for uptake of 5G. This means better connectivity everywhere."

Under the agreement, EU countries must reassign the 700 MHz frequency band (694-790 MHz) to wireless broadband services by 30 June 2020. If they are unable to do this, a delay of up to two years is possible in duly justified cases. 

The 700 MHz band provides high speeds and excellent coverage. Its coordinated use for mobile will promote the take-up of 4G and help offer high-quality broadband to all Europeans, including in rural areas. Increased connectivity will make it easier for citizens to communicate and use internet content and services in their daily life, wherever they are. It improves conditions for business, drives up demand for more services and furthers economic development. 

This targeted assignment of spectrum will also make it easier to roll out 5G as soon as it becomes available (around 2020). 5G will enable vastly enhanced wireless network capacity and ubiquitous connectivity, allowing for the effective deployment of innovative services such as remote healthcare, connected cars and smart infrastructures. Creating the conditions for these new technologies is crucial for Europe's global competitiveness.  

Broadcasting services, such as digital television and wireless microphones, will maintain priority in the sub-700 MHz band (470-694 MHz) at least until 2030, based on national needs. This gives the audio-visual sector long-term regulatory predictability so that it can continue to provide services and secure necessary investments.

The 470-790 MHz range is currently widely used for digital television broadcasting and for wireless microphones, for instance in theatres, concerts and sporting events.

The Council adopted the following conclusions:

1.             In accordance with its conclusions of 16 December 2014, the Council has assessed the overall state of the EU relations with the following Western European countries that are not members of the EU: the Republic of Iceland, the Principality of Liechtenstein, the Kingdom of Norway, the Principality of Andorra, the Principality of Monaco and the Republic of San Marino. The Council will revert to the overall state of EU relations with the Swiss Confederation in early 2017. The Council will reassess the state of these relations in two years, as appropriate.

2.             The Council emphasises the weight and importance the EU attaches to relations with all these special partners. Beyond shared history, geography, interests and core fundamental values, it is economic integration within the framework of the extended EU Single Market that brings us together even more and frames the inter-dependency of our future prosperity and competitiveness.

3.             The Council reiterates that the strength of our economic integration depends on full respect for the four freedoms of the Single Market. It is therefore the responsibility of all the States which already participate or wish to increase their level of participation in the extended Single Market to ensure its integrity and homogeneity, as well as full respect for equal rights and obligations for both citizens and businesses. The Council welcomes the launch of negotiations with Andorra, Monaco and San Marino to develop closer relations with the EU, in particular with regard to their participation in the Single Market, while at the same time taking into account the specificities of each country, as well as their particular situations in line with the Declaration on Article 8 of the Treaty on European Union.

4.             The relations of the EU with the above Western European countries that are not members of the Union have further developed over the years to include many of the EU other policies. The Council looks forward to continuing this mutually beneficial cooperation and to further deepening it in the years to come.

5.             Furthermore, the Council notes the excellent cooperation in some areas of EU external action such as development aid, cooperation in multilateral fora, and common foreign and security policy, including human rights and restrictive measures. It notes that, in most instances, the action of our partners is much synchronised with EU action or complements it. It welcomes and stands ready to successfully further this approach.

6.             The Council acknowledges, in the context of the unprecedented migratory flows to Europe, the constructive and positive cooperation of our partners, as well as their contribution to the Union's efforts, notably in the context of the European Agenda on Migration.

PRINCIPALITY OF LIECHTENSTEIN

7.             In the course of the past two years, relations between the EU and Liechtenstein in the context of the EEA Agreement have further intensified. The Council appreciates Liechtenstein´s continued excellent rate of implementation of EEA relevant EU acquis, as well as its efforts to bring about solutions to pending issues.

8.             The Council welcomes the solidarity shown by the people of Liechtenstein through their increased commitment to reducing social and economic disparities within the EEA in the period 2014-2021, by supporting innovation, research, education, competitiveness and youth employment in the European labour market.

9.             The Council acknowledges the quick progress made by Liechtenstein in the process of incorporation of the package of EU acts in the area of financial services, needed for its integration into the system of financial supervisory authorities.

10.         Liechtenstein is a close and reliable partner in the area of justice and security, in particular with regard to the efficient implementation of the Agreements associating Liechtenstein with the Schengen and Dublin acquis.

11.         The Council appreciates the good cooperation with Liechtenstein in the area of CFSP and looks forward to further deepening this cooperation, in particular on issues such as strengthening the rule of law and respect for human rights, notably within the framework of the United Nations and the OSCE.

12.         The Council notes with satisfaction the advances made on cooperation between the EU and Liechtenstein against tax evasion thanks to the signing and entry into application of the 2015 Protocol on information exchange in tax matters, but also stresses the importance of the effective implementation of the cooperation measures agreed and the need for Liechtenstein to pursue its active participation in global efforts to increase transparency.

13.         The Council welcomes the intensified dialogue between the EU and Liechtenstein on tax measures which constitute harmful tax competition, and encourages Liechtenstein to continue to engage in constructive, transparent and open dialogue with the EU, with the aim of applying the principles and all the criteria of the EU Code of Conduct on Business Taxation.

14.         The Council also notes with satisfaction that Liechtenstein has become a member of the G20/OECD Inclusive Framework on Base Erosion and Profit Shifting (BEPS) and has committed to the comprehensive BEPS package and its consistent implementation.

REPUBLIC OF ICELAND

15.         Through its participation in the EEA Agreement, which is at the core of Iceland's foreign policy, its membership of the Schengen area, as well as through its close cooperation on various EU policies, Iceland remains an important and reliable partner for the EU.

16.         The Council has taken note of the Icelandic government's letter of 12 March 2015 clarifying its policy on the EU accession negotiations, as well as the Icelandic government's commitment to continued strong relations with the EU.

17.         The Council appreciates Iceland's close cooperation in the area of CFSP and acknowledges the constructive role played by Iceland in relation to Arctic matters. The Council welcomes the continued support of Iceland for observer status for the EU in the Arctic Council.

18.         The Council appreciates the continued close cooperation between the EU and Iceland in a range of other areas such as justice and home affairs, research, innovation, education and energy. The Council looks forward to deepening the close cooperation in the areas of environment and climate change policy. In this regard, the Council welcomes the commitment by Iceland to achieve the same emission reduction target as the EU by 2030, as well as the swift finalisation of the national ratification procedure of the Paris Agreement.

19.         The Council welcomes the signing of the Agreements on the EEA financial mechanisms for the period 2014-2021 and looks forward to their rapid implementation. The Council acknowledges Iceland's increased commitment to the reduction of social and economic disparities in the EEA by supporting innovation, research, education, competitiveness and youth employment in the European labour market, as well as the importance of sharing knowledge and expertise in areas such as geothermal energy. The Council also welcomes the signing of the Additional Protocol to the Free Trade Agreement between the European Economic Community and Iceland of 22 July 1972, establishing special provisions for imports of certain fish and fishery products for the period 2014-2021.

20.         The Council welcomes the conclusion of the negotiations between Iceland and the EU on further liberalisation of agricultural trade within the framework of Article 19 of EEA Agreement, on protection of geographical indications, as well as on further liberalisation of trade in processed agricultural products between Iceland and the EU, and looks forward to their rapid entry into force.

21.         The Council welcomes the commitment made by Iceland both to reduce the number of EEA-relevant EU acts awaiting incorporation into the EEA Agreement and to ensure their timely transposition. The Council strongly encourages Iceland to further substantiate ongoing efforts with the aim of ensuring legal certainty and homogeneity in the Single Market.

22.         The Council acknowledges the substantial efforts made towards a continued economic and financial recovery in Iceland. The Council welcomes recent decisions taken to gradually lift the remaining capital controls, and recalls that restrictions can only be implemented temporarily on the basis of provisions of Article 43 of the EEA Agreement.

23.         Regarding the management of mackerel stock in the North East Atlantic, the Council recalls the conclusion in 2014 of a five-year arrangement, as well as the long-term management strategy agreed upon in 2015 between EU, Norway and the Faroe Islands. The Council recalls that the possibility for Iceland to join these agreements remains open and urges Iceland to engage in consultations to arrive at solutions that would offer stability and predictability, and would guarantee the conservation of the biomass and the sustainable exploitation of the stock across its entire area of distribution.

24.         The Council reaffirms its strong support for the maintenance of the internationally-agreed moratorium on commercial whaling established under the International Whaling Commission and for the listing of cetaceans and other marine species under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES). It therefore calls upon Iceland to respect the internationally-agreed moratorium on commercial whaling established under the IWC and to withdraw its reservations under CITES for these and other marine species.

KINGDOM OF NORWAY

25.         The Council notes with satisfaction that, over the past two years, Norway and the EU have maintained and further strengthened their very close and stable cooperation both inside and outside the framework of the EEA Agreement.

26.         Norway is a close and reliable partner in the area of justice and home affairs, in particular in the application of the Schengen acquis. In the context of the unprecedented migratory flows to Europe, the Council acknowledges Norway's contribution, as well as its constructive and positive cooperation, notably in the context of the implementation of the European Agenda on Migration.

27.         The Council appreciates the very close cooperation with Norway, as well as its contribution, in the areas of Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP) and Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) and looks forward to the deepening of this cooperation based on shared values, such as democracy, the rule of law and human rights. The Council acknowledges Norway's active role in peace-building and mediation initiatives around the world. The Council also notes the importance of the close cooperation with Norway on the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

28.         The Council welcomes the continued strong cooperation with Norway on Arctic matters and reiterates its interest in further strengthening this cooperation. Many of the issues affecting the region can be more effectively addressed through enhanced regional or multilateral cooperation. The Council also welcomes the continued support of Norway for observer status for the EU in the Arctic Council.

29.         In the area of energy, the Council notes with satisfaction that Norway remains a key partner of the EU as a reliable supplier of gas and oil. The Council fully recognises the importance of this cooperation for the energy security of the EU, as well as the significant contribution of Norway to the completion of the internal energy market. The Council notes however that the Third Energy Package and the Offshore Safety Directive have not yet been implemented in Norway, and calls for increased efforts with a view to their swift incorporation into the EEA Agreement.

30.         In response to the challenges posed by climate change, the Council welcomes the commitment made by Norway to achieve the same emission reduction target as the EU and looks forward to continuing this cooperation. The Council notes the importance of the close cooperation with Norway on climate change, in particular in the context of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). The Council welcomes the swift finalisation of the national ratification procedure of the Paris Agreement by Norway.

31.         The Council welcomes the signing of the Agreements on the EEA and the Norwegian financial mechanisms and looks forward to their rapid implementation. The Council welcomes, in particular, Norway's commitment to continue and increase its significant contribution to the reduction of social and economic disparities in the EEA by supporting innovation, research, education competitiveness and youth employment in the European labour market. The Council also welcomes the signing of the Additional Protocol to the Free Trade Agreement between the European Economic Community and Norway of 14 May 1973, establishing special provisions for imports of certain fish and fishery products for the period 2014-2021 and ensuring the continuation of the arrangement allowing for free transit of fish and fishery products landed in Norway from vessels flying the flag of a Member State of the EU.

32.         Participation in the framework programmes and in the European Research Area remains a core element of Norwegian research policy. The Council welcomes Norway's commitment to research and innovation and the successful participation of Norwegian entities in Horizon 2020, Creative Europe and Erasmus +.

33.         The Council acknowledges the importance of Norway as one of the EU's main trade partners and reiterates its interest in achieving further liberalisation of trade in agricultural products. The Council welcomes the launch in February 2015 of the negotiations within the framework of Article 19 of the EEA Agreement and strongly encourages the parties to actively continue their efforts to achieve further progress in the negotiations and conclude these shortly. The Council regrets that harmful tariff measures introduced by Norway in 2012 are still in force and calls on Norway to immediately reverse these measures.

34.         The Council reiterates its invitation for Norway to actively engage, without delay, in a proper and constructive negotiation process on the liberalisation of trade in processed agricultural products (Protocol 3 to the EEA Agreement).

35.         The Council takes note with regret of the suspension of the negotiations between the EU and Norway on the protection of geographical indications and hopes that these negotiations will resume soon.

36.         The Council reaffirms its strong support for the maintenance of the internationally-agreed moratorium on commercial whaling established under the International Whaling Commission and for the listing of cetaceans and other marine species under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES). It therefore calls upon Norway to respect the internationally-agreed moratorium on commercial whaling established under the IWC and to withdraw its reservations under CITES for these and other marine species.

37.         The Council acknowledges the close cooperation with Norway in a broad range of other areas, such as fisheries and maritime affairs and looks forward to continuing and further deepening this cooperation.

38.         Regarding cooperation under the EEA Agreement, and with a view to ensuring the homogeneity of the single market acquis throughout the entire EEA, the Council invites Norway to continue its efforts to fulfil its obligations under the Agreement regarding the timely incorporation and implementation of EEA relevant EU legislation.

39.         The Council takes note of the state of play on the negotiations for an agreement between the EU and Norway on administrative cooperation, combating fraud and recovery of claims in the field of value-added tax and invites the EU and Norway to continue and to complete the negotiations as soon as possible on that basis. The aim of the negotiations is to establish a common European framework for administrative cooperation between EU Member States and Norway in the field of VAT in order to exchange information and best practices and cooperate for the recovery of claims in a manner similar to the way it takes place between Member States.

EUROPEAN ECONOMIC AREA

40.         The Council notes that the EEA Agreement has continued to function in a satisfactory manner in the last two years, maintaining its key role in advancing economic relations and Single Market integration between the EU and the EEA EFTA States.

41.         The Council welcomes the adoption of the EEA Joint Committee Decisions on the first package of legal acts relating to the EU Regulations on the European Supervisory Authorities in the area of financial services. The Council also stresses the importance of promptly incorporating and applying the other outstanding legislation in the field of financial services as soon as possible.

42.         The Council notes that, despite all efforts, there is still an important number of legal acts for which the compliance date in the EU has passed but which have not entered into force in the EEA EFTA States as their incorporation into the EEA Agreement has been delayed. The Council stresses the need for the EEA EFTA States to continue their efforts towards a streamlined incorporation and application of EEA relevant legislation, in order to reduce the number of pending acts for incorporation and to ensure legal certainty and homogeneity in the EEA.

PRINCIPALITY OF ANDORRA, PRINCIPALITY OF MONACO AND REPUBLIC OF SAN MARINO

43.         The Council notes with satisfaction that, over the past two years, relations with Andorra, Monaco and San Marino have continued to be characterised by a high level of stability and cooperation.

44.         The Council welcomes the opening, on 18 March 2015, of negotiations between the EU and Andorra, Monaco and San Marino, with a view to concluding one or several Association Agreement(s) (the 'Agreement(s)') to provide for the participation of these countries in the EU's Single Market, as well as for cooperation with the EU in other policy areas.

45.         The Council considers that the future Agreement(s) should be based on a number of fundamental principles, such as maintaining the good functioning and homogeneity of the Single Market and legal certainty, while at the same time taking into account the specificities of each country as well as their particular situations in line with the Declaration on Article 8 of the Treaty on European Union. In this context, the Council stresses the need for all parties to continue to make steady and concrete progress towards the finalisation of these negotiations.

46.         Furthermore, the Council stresses the importance of establishing a coherent, efficient and effective institutional framework to underpin the Agreement(s) that, inter alia:

a)             includes a forum for consultation between parties to ensure the good functioning and proper implementation of the Agreement(s);

b)             ensures the dynamic take-over of the EU acquis by the three countries;

c)             provides for the uniform application and consistent interpretation of the provisions of the Agreement(s); and

d)            includes a fair, effective and efficient dispute resolution mechanism.

47.         The Council welcomes the continued cooperation with Andorra, Monaco and San Marino in the area of CFSP, including through close contacts in multilateral organisations and voluntary alignment with EU positions, declarations and restrictive measures on a case-by-case basis, and calls for this cooperation to be strengthened.

48.         The Council welcomes the signing of protocols between the EU and Andorra, Monaco and San Marino respectively on the implementation of the Global Standard for Automatic Exchange of Financial Account Information, as developed by the OECD and endorsed by the G20, and looks forward to their complete and effective implementation within the agreed timelines.

49.         The Council notes with satisfaction that Andorra, Monaco and San Marino have become members of the G20/OECD Inclusive Framework on Base Erosion and Profit Shifting (BEPS). The Council also notes that Andorra, Monaco and San Marino have yet to commit to and implement the principles and the criteria of the EU Code of Conduct on Business Taxation and urges them to do so without further delay.

Brigadier General Peter Devogelaere, a Belgian national, has been appointed as mission commander of the EU training mission in Mali (EUTM Mali). He will take up his duties on 19 December 2016. He will take over from Brigadier General Eric Harvent, who held the post since July 2016.

EUTM Mali assists in the reconstruction of effective and accountable Malian armed forces capable of ensuring the long-term security of Mali and, under civilian authority, restoring the country's territorial integrity. To this effect, EUTM Mali delivers training to units of the Malian armed forces and develops autonomous training capability. The mission also provides advice to the Malian authorities on reforming the army. The mission was launched on 18 February 2013. Its mandate was recently extended to 18 May 2018. The headquarters of the mission are located in Bamako, Mali.

The mission is part of the EU's comprehensive approach to security and development in the Sahel. Two other CSDP missions are in place in the region: EUCAP Sahel Mali, which supports the Malian state to ensure constitutional and democratic order and the conditions for lasting peace as well as to maintain its authority throughout the entire territory; and EUCAP Sahel Niger, which supports the fight against organised crime and terrorism in Niger.

The decision was adopted by the Political and Security Committee.

 
Media advisory
Visit of the President of Colombia, Manuel Santos, in the margins of the Foreign Affairs Council

Monday 12 December 2016
Justus Lipsius building - Brussels

17.00  Informal discussion with the members of the Foreign affairs Council
            (roundtable - photo/TV opportunity)

17.30  Signature of the constitutive agreement of the EU Trust Fund for Colombia
            (livestreaming of the ceremony - http://europa.eu/!RX79dW)

18.00  Family photo (photo/TV opportunity)
  
18.05  Press Conference by HR Federica Mogherini and President Manuel Santos
            (pressroom, level 00 - livestreaming - http://europa.eu/!mW99xd)

* * *
Access to the press room (level 00) and participation to the photo/TV opportunities will be subject to the following conditions:
- 6-month badge (2nd semester 2016)
- Journalists without the above must send a written request by mail - deadline Friday 9 December at 17.00 - to press.centre@consilium.europa.eu, indicating their full name, media, date of birth and attaching a copy of their ID, a valid press card (if available) or a signed letter from their media confirming their professional status and that they are assigned to cover this event. No late request will be accepted.
Original documents need to be produced when collecting the badge.
Photos and video coverage of the event will be available for preview and download on http://tvnewsroom.consilium.europa.eu