European space policy: framework agreement EC/European Space Agency (ESA)

PURPOSE: conclusion of a framework contract between the European Community and the European Space Agency.

LEGISLATIVE ACT: Council Decision 2004/578/EC.

CONTENT: The Council adopted the Decision on the conclusion of the EC/ESA Framework Agreement. The cooperation under this Framework Agreement aims at:

(a) securing Europe's independent and cost-effective access to space and the development of other fields of strategic interest necessary for the independent use and application of space technologies in Europe;

(b) ensuring that the overall European Space Policy takes into particular account the general policies pursued by the European Community;

(c) supporting Community policies by using space technologies and space infrastructures where appropriate and promoting the use of space systems in support of sustainable development, economic growth and employment;

(d) optimising the use of expertise and available resources and contributing to the consolidation of the close cooperation between the European Community and ESA, thereby linking the demand and supply of space systems within a strategic partnership;

(e) achieving greater coherence and synergy of research and development in order to optimise the use of resources available in Europe, including the network of technical centres.