EEC/Central America agreement: framework agreement for cooperation

PURPOSE : the conclusion of a framework Co-operation Agreement between the Community and several Central American countries. COMMUNITY MEASURE : Council Decision 1999/194/EC concerning the conclusion of a framework Co-operation Agreement between the European Economic Community and the Republics of Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua and Panama. CONTENT : The Agreement is based on respect for democratic principles and human rights. It contains a clause that permits the extension of the areas of co-operation if deemed appropriate. The agreement covers : - the strengthening of co-operation in all areas of common interest, particularly the economic, financial, commercial, socila, science and technology, environment and regional integration; - on the economic front, the strengthening and diversification of economic links, the promotion of trade and investment, technology transfer, job creation, rural development, support for regional integration initiatives; - active development of trade co-operation (exchanges of senior company staff, co-operation between customs services, promotion of joint activities between companies,....). Other areas of co-operation are planned in sectors such as industry, investment, co-operation between financial institutions, science and technology, standards, intellectual and industrial property, mining, energy, transport, tourism, environment, agriculture, forestry & rural sector, fisheries, health, social development, drug prevention, support for regional integration in Central America, cultural co-operation, training... Specific co-operation is also foreseen with a view to strengthening the democratic process in Central America (organisation of free and transparent elections, respect for human rights, ...), as well as aid for the reintegration of refugees, displaced persons and returnees. The Agreement includes the Most-favoured-nation treatment clause, as well as an annex covering maritime transport. There are also unilateral declarations on the protection of investments, priority assistance of the Community for regional projects, and special concessions accorded by the Community to these countries under the GSP. As far as the entry into force of the Agreement is concerned, it is stipulated that the Joint Committee, established in 1985 pursuant to the previous Co-operation Agreement, will be maintained. Tasks of this Committee will include ensuring the proper functioning and co-ordination of activities governed by this Agreement. ENTRY INTO FORCE : 01.03.1999.�