Research RTD, 5th framework-programme EC 1998-2002: association of Malta

OBJECTIVE: to associate Malta with the 5th framework programme for RTD (2001 to 2002), as part of the pre-accession strategy. COMMUNITY MEASURE: Council Decision No 2002/410/EC concerning the conclusion of the Additional Protocol to the Agreement establishing an association between the European Economic Community and the Republic of Malta, to associate Malta with the 5th framework programme for research, technological development and demonstration (1998 to 2002). CONTENT: this Additional Protocol to the EC-Malta Association Agreement sets the terms and arrangements for Malta's participation in the specific programmes of the 5th Framework Programme for RDT. Maltese research entities (universities, research organisations, industrial companies, etc.) will be able to take part in programmes envisaged on the same terms as Community establishments. The protocol sets out the forms which this participation may take, together with the intellectual property and confidentiality implications of information which becomes available as a result of shared research. Details are also given of the financial contribution which Malta will make to the Community budget in respect of its participation in these various programmes. This will be set on the basis of the ratio of the GDP of Malta to that of the Member States of the European Union and will contribute towards the additional administrative costs incurred by the Commission for managing the programmes. Arrangements are also made to allow Maltese representatives to take part in the work of committees under the various programmes. The protocol is concluded for the last two years of the 5th Framework programme's validity (i.e. 2001-2002). ENTRY INTO FORCE: the decision enters into force on 1 June 2002. The protocol will enter into force when all the parties have notified each other of the completion of the procedures necessary for the purpose. �