EC/Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia FYROM agreement: cooperation agreement

The rapporteur, Mr PONS GRAU (PSE, E) proposed that the European Parliament approve the framework trade and cooperation agreement between the European Community and the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM). This agreement is a key element in the recent Community initiative to consolidate the peace process and stability in south-eastern Europe. The democratic aspect is a fundamental element in the agreement: both parties undertake to ensure that respect for human rights and democratic principles inform both the domestic and international policies of the European Community and the FYROM. The agreement also makes provision for preferential trade arrangements, the promotion of regional exchanges and economic, technical and financial cooperation. At institutional level, provision has been made to set up a cooperation council which will meet once a month.�