The European Union and the region of Kaliningrad

The Council took stock of work taking forward co-operation with Russia and neighbouring countries relating to the Kalingrad region. Primary responsibility for the future development of the Kalingrad region lies with the Russian federation. The Council noted Russia's discussions of domestic policy towards the region. It welcomed the constructive dialogue with Russia on Kalingrad within the framework of the Partnership and Co-operation Agreement in order to identify practical solutions for the region with due respect for the Community acquis. PCA institutions were the most appropriate fora for further discussions. Whilst welcoming the dialogue with associated countries on issues related to Kalingrad, the Council also recognised that some issues involving the candidate states, notably on the movement of people, could only be addressed in the context of enlargement and with due attention to the bilateral relations between the candidate states and Russia. The Council noted with satisfaction the assistance being provided through Phare and Tacis as well as the bilateral contributions of Member States, to address issues such as economic development, transport and energy, good governance, democracy and rule of law, justice and home affairs and environment. It welcomed the recent opening of a Tacis office in Kalingrad and preparation of a Tacis study on the energy needs of the region to be launched in 2001. The Council outlined further action required from Coreper and the Commission. �