EC/Israel Euro-Mediterranean association agreement

PURPOSE : to conclude a Euro-Mediterranean Association Agreement between the EC and their Member States and the State of Israel. COMMUNITY MEASURE : Decision of the Council and the Commission on the conclusion of a Euro-Mediterranean Agreement establishing an association between the European Communities and their Member States, of the one part and the State of Israel, of the other part. (2000/384/EC, ECSC). CONTENT : this Agreement replaces the cooperation agreement and the agreement on ECSC products signed in since 1975. The aims of this Agreement are: - to provide an appropriate framework for political dialogue, allowing the development of close political relations between the Parties; - through the expansion, inter alia, of trade in goods and services, the recipricol liberalisation of the right of establishment, the further progressive liberalisation of public procurement, the free movement of capital and the intensification of coopertion in science and technology to promote the harmonious development of economic relations between the Community and Israel and thus to foster in the Community and in Israel the advance of economic activity, the improvement of living and employment conditions, and increased productivity and financial stability; - to encourage regional cooperation with a view to the consolidation of peaceful coexistence and economic and political stability; - to promote cooperation in other areas which are of reciprocal interest. In addition, a regular political dialogue shall be established between the Parties. It shall strengthen their relations, contribute to the development of a lasting partnership and increase mutual understanding and solidarity. All relations between the Parties, as well as all provisions of the Agreement itself, shall be based on respect for human rights and democratic principles. Moreover, an Association Council has been set up which shall meet at ministerial level once a year and when circumstances require. An Association Committee has also been set up, with responsibility for implementing the Agreement. ENTRY INTO FORCE : the Agreement will enter into force on 01.06.2000.�