Research RTD EC/Euratom 5th framework programme 1998-2002: association of Latvia

PURPOSE : in the context of the pre-accession strategy, the opening of the Fifth RTD Framework Programme and the EURATOM Framework Programme to Latvia for the period 1998-2002. CONTENT : this proposal for a Council Decision of the EC-Latvian Association Council adopting the terms and conditions for the participation of Latvia in Community programmes in the fields of research, technological development and demonstration (1998-2002), and in EURATOM programmes for research and training activities (1998-2002). It is provided for that research entities established in Latvia (universities, research organisations, industrial companies, including SMEs, or natural persons) may participate in EU programmes under the same conditions as EU entities. The proposal specifies the forms that this participation may take, as well as the implications as regards ownership, exploitation and dissemination of information and intellectual property arising from such participation. The financial contribution of Latvia deriving from participation in the implementation of the specific programmes shall be established in proportion to, and in addition to, the amount available each year in the general EU budget for commitment appropriations to meet the Commission's financial obligations stemming from work to be carried out in the forms necessary for the implementation, management and operation of these programmes. The proportionality factor governing the contribution of Latvia shall be obtained by establishing the ratio between the GDP of Latvia, at market prices, and the sum of the GDPs, at market prices, of the EU Member States and Latvia. The financial statement annexed to the proposal fixes the total contribution of Latvia for the 5 years of the Framework Programmes at 10.21 million euros (it should be noted that Latvia will be able to use some Phare resources to pay this contribution). Expenditures for Community management of programmes are estimated at O.25 million euros/year. Procedures are laid down to enable Latvian representives to participate in the work of the committees of the various programmes. Provisions are also made to associate this country with any future framework programme.�