Third-generation mobile and wireless communications system UMTS: ccordinated introduction

PURPOSE: to facilitate the rapid and co-ordinated introduction of a third-generation mobile and wireless communications system (UMTS) in the Community. COMMUNITY MEASURE: Decision 128/1999/EC of the European Parliament and the Council on the co-ordinated introduction of a third-generation mobile and wireless communications system (UMTS) in the Community. CONTENT: The Decision requires Member States to take all actions necessary in order to allow the co-ordinated and progressive introduction of the UMTS services on their territory by 01.01.2002 at the latest and in particular establish an authorisation system for UMTS no later than January 2000. In the event of exceptional technical difficulties in achieving the necessary adjustments in their frequency plan, Member States shall be granted on request an additional implementation period of up to 12 months. Such a request has to be filed before 01.01.2000. Member States shall encourage organisations providing UMTS networks to negotiate among themselves cross-border roaming agreements to ensure seamless Community-wide service coverage. Where necessary, Member States may take action, in accordance with Community law, to ensure the coverage of less-populated areas. The Commission shall take all necessary measures, where appropriate in co-operation with ETSI, to promote a common and open standard for the provision of compatible UMTS services throughout Europe, in accordance with market requirements, taking into account the need to present a common standard to the ITU IMT 2000 recommendation. ENTRY INTO FORCE: 22/01/1999.�