European space policy: framework agreement EC/European Space Agency (ESA)

PURPOSE : to conclude a framework agreement between the European Community and the European Space Agency. PROPOSED ACT : Council Decision. CONTENT : the Framework Agreement between the European Union and the European Space Agency has been drawn-up based on the recommendations and conclusions of the Commission's Communication "Towards a European Space Policy". In this report the Commission noted that a successful development of a European Space Policy would be the establishment of a formal Framework Agreement. Such a framework would help define the principles and mechanisms of reinforced co-operation as well as boosting efficiency by avoiding any duplication of effort. The agreement is set to last for four years to be automatically extended for a subsequent period of four years unless written notification of any of the parties intending to terminate it. The agreement provides for: - A link between demand for services and applications using space systems in support of the Community policies. - A common basis for appropriate operational arrangements. - A co-operation mechanisms subject to the applicable laws, tasks and regulations in force on each side, including financial provisions, and in full respect of their institutional setting. - Co-operation objectives: securing Europe's independence access to space; ensuring that the European Space Policy takes into particular account the policies pursued by the Community; consolidate the co-operation between the Parities; linking demand and supply and, achieving coherence and synergy of research and development to optimise resources. FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS : - Budget line: BGUE-B2004-08 01 05 03; - Period of application : 4 years; - Total allocation for action (Part B): EUR 0.168 for commitment; - Staff costs: EUR 3 456 000 (covering 4 year period); - Impact on staff : 8 (1 permanent / 7 temporary posts).�