EU and Euratom/Georgia, Japan, Norway, Kyrgyzstan, Armenia, Kazakhstan, Korea, Tajikistan, USA Agreement: continuing the International Science and Technology Center

The European Parliament adopted by 601 votes to 51, with 19 abstentions, a legislative resolution on the draft Council decision on the conclusion of the Agreement continuing the International Science and Technology Center.

In line with the recommendation made by the Committee on Foreign Affairs, the European Parliament gave its consent to the conclusion of the Agreement.

In brief, the Agreement continuing the International Science and Technology Centre between the European Union and EURATOM acting as one Party, and Georgia, Japan, Norway, Kirghizia, Armenia, Kazakhstan, Korea, Tajikistan, and the United States of America was signed on 9 December 2015, subject to its conclusion at a later date.

The proposed Decision seeks to conclude the Agreement continuing the International Science and Technology Center (ISTC) after the withdrawal of Russian participation, signed on 9 December 2015, requiring Parliament’s consent in order to enter into force for the parts falling under the competence of the Treaties on the European Union, and on Functioning of the EU, respectively.

The ISTC Continuation Agreement will ensure that the on-going and new projects shall continue with a changed membership, a broader geographical scope possibly including the Middle East region, and a set of updated objectives more specifically targeting dual-use knowledge.