FEDERATION DE RUSSIE - ACTUALITES DE LA DELEGATION DE LA CE
The EESC takes forward its cooperation with the civil society of the Black Sea Region and the EaP
On 2-3 March 2009, the conference on “Civil Society in the Black Sea Region and the Eastern Partnership Countries - Promoting Civil and Social Dialogue” will provide a new opportunity for the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) and the International Labour Office (ILO) to take forward cooperation among organised civil society organisations from the EU and the Eastern Neighbours countries, as well as Turkey and Russia.
(24 February, 2009)
Europe keeps women’s empowerment high on its global agenda
On the occasion of the International Women’s Day on 8 March, which this year carries the theme ‘Women and men united to end violence against women and girls’, Commissioner Benita Ferrero-Waldner reaffirms the Commission’s continuing political and financial commitment to fight for women rights.
(6 March, 2009)
Speech by Benita Ferrero-Waldner
After the Russia / Ukraine gas crisis: what next?
(9 March, 2009)
New EU funded project to improve access to justice in the Russian Federation
On 12 March 2009 the Federal Chamber of Lawyers of the Russian Federation will host a kick-off meeting for the EU-funded project “Improvement of Access to Justice in the Russian Federation”. The overall objective of this 2.8 mln euro project is to contribute to strengthening of the rule of law in the Russian Federation through promoting fair access to justice for all.
(10 March, 2009)
Speech at the 7th Doha Natural Gas Conference by Andris Piebalgs, Energy Commissioner
Today’s debate highlights two of the greatest challenges facing mankind at this present time: climate change and energy security. The EU is tackling these challenges head on, and gas has a particular role in our strategy.
(11 March, 2009)
MEMO: EU - Russia Energy Dialogue
On the occasion of the sixth EU-Russia Summit (30th October 2000, Paris), it was agreed to institute an Energy Dialogue between the EU and Russia in order to enable progress to be made in the definition and arrangements for an EU-Russia Energy Partnership.
(19 March, 2009)
European Atelier: contemporary art competition announced
In May-July 2009 the Delegation of the European Commission to Russia, in cooperation with the Central House of Artists and the Moscow Museum of Modern Art, is organising a competition for Russian and European artists dedicated to the 20th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall as well as the 5th anniversary of the EU Eastern enlargement. Winners of the competition will receive prizes and an opportunity to exhibit their installations in the Central House of Artists from 7- 26 July 2009.
(21 April, 2009)
EU Special Representative for the Middle East Peace Process on Official Visit to Moscow
On 29 April, 2009, Ambassador Marc Otte, EU Special Representative for the Middle East Peace Process, will come to Moscow with an official visit. Ambassador Otte will hold series of meetings with his Russian counterparts, including Deputy Foreign Minister of the RF Alexander Saltanov, and Sergey Yakovlev, Special Representative of Russian Foreign Minister for the Middle East Peace Process, to discuss current developments in the Middle East.
(27 April, 2009)
Speech delivered by Androulla Vassiliou on novel flu virus
We will discuss the EU’s collective response to this rapidly evolving situation. This will focus on precautionary measures, monitoring and surveillance, and diagnosis and treatment. Nobody should underestimate the situation, but there is no reason to panic either. In close collaboration with our partners throughout the world and with transparent information, we will continue to do all we can to protect the health of EU citizens.
(29 April, 2009)
Statement by Director General for Enlargement on Albania’s application for EU Membership
“The European perspective of the Western Balkan countries, including Albania, is essential for the stability and the prosperity of the region and for the EU. By making solid progress in economic and political reform and by fulfilling the necessary conditions and requirements, the remaining potential candidates in the Western Balkans should achieve candidate status, according to their own merits, with EU membership as ultimate goal”.
(29 April, 2009)
The EU-Russia Energy PPC underlines mutual interdependence in EU-Russia energy relations
Energy Commissioner Andris Piebalgs, Minister of Trade and Industry of the Czech Presidency, Martin Riman and Maud Olofsson, Minister for Enterprise and Energy and Deputy Prime Minister of Sweden, met the Russian Deputy Prime Minister Igor Sechin and the Russian Minister of Energy Sergey Shmatko in Moscow today, in the framework of the fourth EU-Russia Permanent Partnership Council on Energy. They discussed latest developments in the EU-Russia Energy Dialogue, bilateral cooperation on energy in the framework of other international organizations and exchanged views on future energy relations between Russia and the EU.
(30 April, 2009)
World Press Freedom Day: Commission launches 2009 Lorenzo Natali Prize for committed journalists
On World Press Freedom Day the Commission is officially launching the Lorenzo Natali Prize for 2009. The prize is awarded in partnership with Reporters Without Borders and the World Association of Newspapers to journalists who have demonstrated a commitment to human rights, democracy and development.
(4 May, 2009)
Eastern Partnership Summit to strengthen EU links with Eastern Europe and South Caucasus
The first Eastern Partnership (EaP) summit in Prague on 7 May will gather leaders from the EU Member States, EU institutions and Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Republic of Moldova and Ukraine to launch this new framework of reinforced bilateral and multilateral cooperation. This ambitious initiative will lead to deepening of political and economic relations, more energy security, increased mobility and will give an additional boost to pro-democratic and market oriented reforms in partner countries.
(5 May, 2009)
Reducing regional disparities in the EU and beyond
Non-EU countries such as China, Russia and Brazil, which also struggle with large regional disparities and multiple levels of government, have shown interest in cooperating with the EU to compare experiences.
(13 May, 2009)
Russia third trading partner of EU27
In 2008, Russia was the EU27’s third most important trading partner after the USA and China, accounting for 8% of EU27 exports and 11% of EU27 imports.
(20 May, 2009)
EU-Russia Summit on 21-22 May in Khabarovsk
The next EU-Russia Summit takes place in Khabarovsk, in the Russian Far East, on 21 and 22 May. The Summit is an opportunity or the EU and Russia to discuss how best to coordinate responses to the financial and economic crisis. Climate change and energy security are also high on the agenda. International issues which will be tackled at the Summit range from efforts to promote greater stability in the common neighbourhood and in Europe more generally, through to the situation in the Middle East, Afghanistan/Pakistan, Iran and Sri Lanka among others.
(20 May, 2009)
EU-Russia cooperation in science and technology
On 22 May 2009 at 10.00 The Delegation of the European Commission to Russia will present the results of the study carried over in the framework of the EU-Russia Cooperation Programme. An assessment of the impact of completed EU-funded projects in the area of science and technology was made and recommendations for follow-up were developed.
(20 May, 2009)
Presentation of the Compendium on science & research cooperation between the EU and Russia
The Compendium provides easy-to-use guidance through the agreements, programmes and institutions which underpin scientific cooperation with Russia at the level of 27 EU Member States as well as at the level of the European Union as a whole. It gives an overview of various forms of support available for European and Russian researchers, and contains information about some select pan-European and international funding organisations.
(21 May, 2009)
Europe in writing: launch of PRESSEUROP.EU
The European Commission and a consortium led by Courrier International (with Internazionale in Italy, Forum Polityka in Poland and Courrier Internacional in Portugal, with the support of Cafebabel) launched today PRESSEUROP.EU, the first multilingual website containing press articles on EU affairs. PRESSEUROP will offer, in at least 10 languages (up to 23), a multilingual selection of articles published on the same day or the day before. These articles will be complemented with analyses, comments and illustrations.
(27 May, 2009)
European Commission and Russia agree to strengthen dialogue in public health
Today in Moscow, Health Commissioner Androulla Vassiliou and Minister of Health and Social Development of the Russian Federation Ms Tatyana Golikova signed Terms of Reference for establishing a dialogue in public health. The dialogue goes beyond the current health provisions in the EU – Russia PCA. For example, it includes the monitoring and control of the spread of HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and other infectious diseases, the promotion of healthy lifestyles to reduce avoidable premature mortality and strengthening surveillance, the cooperation on the development of common food safety standards.
(28 May, 2009)
Fighting Racism and Xenophobia: annual human rights conference
On June 3 the Delegation of the European Commission to Russia (Kadashevskaya naberezhnaya, 14/1) will host its annual conference of the European Instrument for Democracy and Human Rights. The theme of this year’s conference is the fight against racism and xenophobia both in the EU and Russia.
(1 June, 2009)
EC and CoE present a Joint programme on ethnic and national minorities in Russia
The 2.75mln euro programme will be implemented in co-operation with the Ministry of Regional Development of the Russian Federation in 2009-2011. It aims at promoting Russia’s ethnic and national minorities and better recognition of their specific integrity.
(18 June, 2009)
European Energy Policy for the 21st century
Speech, Jose Manuel Durao Barroso, President of the European Commission: In order to put emergency preparedness and crisis response on a sound footing for the future, I intend to propose in the next few weeks a revision of the EU’s directive on the security of gas supply. Member States have just agreed a few weeks ago a new Directive on emergency oil stocks that will make these stocks more reliable and more accessible in case of emergency. We need to develop the same resilience in the gas sector.
(24 June, 2009)
EU adopts new rules strengthening the internal energy market
President Barroso and Energy Commissioner Andris Piebalgs have welcomed today’s adoption of new rules on the internal energy market by the Council following a positive vote by the European Parliament in April. The new legislation is expected to strengthen the EU’s internal energy market, give consumers more protection and the benefit of the lowest possible energy prices while offering companies the chance to compete on a level playing field. In addition the legislative package will promote sustainability by stimulating energy efficiency. Member States now have 18 months to transpose the new rules into national law.
(25 June, 2009)
EU project on primary health care facilities in Russia presents its results
Key results of the project include the development of policy recommendations for the Russian Ministry of Health and Social Development. The recommendations take into account the objectives of the National project “Health” and focus in the first place on financing and remuneration mechanisms, as well as distribution of responsibilities and coordination between federal, regional, municipal authorities in primary health care. For instance, remuneration of healthcare personnel based on quality of services, healthcare financing based on finished case and on federal standards, and per-capita financing of health care with elements of Fund Holding were recommended, and respective schemes were outlined.
(29 June, 2009)
Joint statement of the European Commission and International Financial Institutions
The EC hosted a technical meeting today with the participation of the EBRD, EIB, the IMF and the World Bank, and representatives from the Russian and Ukrainian authorities as well as Gazprom and Naftogaz Ukrainy. The Commission and the IFIs also met with representatives of the European gas industry. The purpose of the meeting today - which is part of a longer process of discussions - was to explore issues related to the payment of gas from Russia by Ukraine and possible needs for further storage of gas. The participants made good progress in identifying the key issues of concern and elements for possible solutions including possible financing arrangements.
(30 June, 2009)
10,000 Erasmus Mundus scholarships for 2009-2010
The European Commission has just awarded almost 10,000 new grants to be funded by the Erasmus Mundus programme in the academic year 2009-2010. 8,385 students and academics will come to study or teach in Europe, including 64 students and 21 scholar from Russia; and 1,561 Europeans will spend periods at partner institutions in countries outside Europe.
(1 July, 2009)
Adoption of the Visa Code
Following media reports about the adoption of the Visa Code by the European Council, Delegation of the European Commission to Russia informs that the EU-Russia visa facilitation agreement that entered into force on 1 June, 2007, continues to apply offering more favourable conditions to Russian citizens travelling to the EU compared to other third countries nationals, including a fixed visa fee of 35 euro.
(1 July, 2009)
Regional cooperation and filling storages as the best means to mitigate potential gas cuts
The Gas Coordination Group, chaired by the Commission, has analysed in a extraordinary meeting held today in Brussels the progress made by the Member States of the EU and the Energy Community (EnCT) to increase their preparedness to a potential supply disruption. The Commission has stressed the need to fill the storages and seek further regional arrangements ahead of any possible disruption.
(2 July, 2009)
EC allocates 40 mio Euro to multi-country projects in Eastern Europe and Southern Caucasus
The assistance package of €40mio will fund several programmes in different areas such as the strengthening of culture policies and civil society, support of SME networks, border management, air quality governance and disaster preparedness. All the projects to be financed with this programme will have a regional scope as they each will each benefit at least two of the seven partner states along the Eastern border of the EU (Russia, Ukraine, Republic of Moldova, Belarus, Armenia, Azerbaijan and Georgia).
(3 July, 2009)
Accreditation test for Russian free-lance conference interpreters
The European Institutions are organising an accreditation test for Russian free-lance conference interpreters. Free-lance test for Russian will be held in St. Petersburg from 9-13 November 2009.
(3 July, 2009)
In search of Babushka, Joy and Free Space
On 8-26 July the Central House of Artists will host an exhibition of installation projects created by the winners of the contemporary art competition “European Atelier: Sharing a Cultural Space” organised by the Delegation of the European Commission to Russia, International Confederation of the Unions of Artists and the Central House of Artists. The project is dedicated to the 20th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall and the 5th anniversary of the EU Eastern enlargement. Out of over 200 applications the jury selected twenty artworks to be exhibited.
(3 July, 2009)
Joint article by Swedish Prime Minister and President of the EC
The symbolic meeting place of the G8 in L’Aquila is a signal of the world’s solidarity with Italy after the terrible earthquake earlier this year. It is also a unique chance to prevent another disaster – this one man-made. Climate change is happening and it is happening fast. When G8 leaders and their partners from around the world meet in LLAAquila, a global, wide-ranging and ambitious post 2012 agreement in Copenhagen must be their top priority. An agreement which by respecting science brings real global emission reductions.
(8 July, 2009)
Remarks by Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso at G8 summit
The EU is committed to keep its promises on aid: The EU is by far the biggest aid donor in the world already. This position is maintained despite the crisis, with the EU delivering €49 billion in 2008, almost 60% of global development assistance. We must deliver progress on financial regulation: The G8 must reaffirm the commitments made by the G20 in Washington and London, review the progress in terms of implementing them and advance the preparations of the G20 in Pittsburgh in September. Again, the EU has shown considerable progress in establishing a complete reparation and overhaul of our financial system.
(9 July, 2009)
Barroso and Piebalgs welcome the signature of the Nabucco Intergovernmental Agreement
President of the European Commission Jose Manuel Barroso and Energy Commissioner Andris Piebalgs welcome the signature in Ankara on Monday of the Nabucco Intergovernmental Agreement, which sets out the terms and conditions under which gas can be exported from the Caspian Sea and the Middle East to the European Union and Turkey. Potentially Nabucco can supply up to 5-10% of European gas demand, but in countries that are currently 100% reliant on one external supply route, it will provide immediate tangible security of supply benefits.
(10 July, 2009)
President Barroso on the result of the meeting of the Major Economies Forum on Climate Change
I am happy that one of the EU’s most important benchmarks for progress ahead of the Copenhagen climate conference has been reached: The 2oC target is now written in stone. We have for the first time firmly anchored this target for limiting average temperature rises both within the G8 and within the Major Economies Forum. This sends a strong signal to the rest of the world. If we are to have a fair chance of staying below two degrees Celsius we must cut global emissions by at least 50% compared to 1990 by 2050.
(10 July, 2009)
The Commission adopts new rules to prevent and deal with gas supply crises
The European Commission today has adopted a new regulation to improve security of gas supplies in the framework of the internal gas market. The proposed Regulation would strengthen the existing EU system for gas supply security by ensuring that all Member States and their gas market players take effective action well in advance to prevent and mitigate the consequences of potential disruptions to gas supplies. It also would create mechanisms for Member States to work together to deal effectively with any major gas disruptions which might arise.
(16 July, 2009)
Declaration by the Presidency on behalf of the EU on the murders of Chechen human rights defender
The EU condemns the murders of the human rights defender Zarema Sadulayeva and her husband Alik Dzhabrailov in Chechnya on 10 August and expresses its solidarity with the families of the victims. This follows a series of killings of human rights defenders in Russia, including Anna Politkovskaya in 2006, Stanislav Markelov in January 2009 and Nataliya Estemirova on 15 July 2009. It is important that an investigation into these latest murders is conducted promptly, transparently and thoroughly. The perpetrators must be brought to justice. The EU will follow closely the progress of this and other ongoing investigations into the murders of human rights defenders.
(12 August, 2009)
The Saint Basil sheaf in GUM: a tribute of Italian region Marche to Russia
The Saint Basil sheaf will be shown to public from 28 August until 3 September at the famous GUM store overlooking the Red Square in Moscow. The exhibition is organized under the “Make Culture!” project co-funded by the European Union aiming at strengthening the intercultural dialogue and promoting people-to-people contacts between the Marche region of Italy and Lipetsk region of Russia. Ahead of the 450th anniversary of the Pokrovsky Cathedral (the Saint Basil Cathedral) the artists of Campocavallo, a rural Marche region in Italy, have produced a handmade sheaf representing the Cathedral and will bring it to Russia as a symbol of friendship between the Marche region and the Russian Federation.
(20 August, 2009)
The EU and Red Cross provide drinking water to people affected by Sayano-Shushenskaya power plant
The European Commission has allocated 10,500 EUR to urgently provide drinking water to 1,800 elderly, disabled and other vulnerable people in settlement of Maina (Khakassiya). Central water supply in Maina has been cut off due to the oil slick in Yenisey River after the accident on Sayano-Shushenskaya Power Plant. The aid is channelled through the Red Cross via the Disaster Relief Emergency Fund.
(26 August, 2009)
Visit of Laszlo Kovacs, EU Commissioner for taxation and customs union, to Moscow
EU Commissioner for taxation and customs union, Laszlo Kovacs, will visit Moscow on 21-22 September to discuss EU-Russia customs and cross-border cooperation with his Russian counterparts.
(17 September, 2009)
Updated list of Erasmus Mundus programmes now available
The full list of 116 Erasmus Mundus Master’s programmes and 13 Erasmus Mundus PhD programmes has been published on the website of the European Commission. The number of Erasmus Mundus Master’s courses has grown to 116 this year compared to 103 in 2008. 30 Master’s courses are completely new. The size of the scholarship remains the same, except for specific cases when host European universities ask for tuition fees higher than the amount fixed in previous years.
(22 September, 2009)
EU Commissioner Laszlo Kovacs concluded today his visit to Russia on customs cooperation
Commissioner Laszlo Kovacs, responsible for Taxation and Customs, visited Moscow this week to meet with Russian authorities to discuss ways in which customs cooperation between the EU and Russia can be reinforced, in particular with a view to reduce border congestion.n particular, were discussed: Russian reforms of customs legislation and procedures; a pilot project on exchanges of information and development of infrastructure and Russia’s initiatives for the development of rail and sea transport.
(23 September, 2009)
Statement of President Barroso on the outcome of the Irish Referendum
My message today is very simple; Thank you Ireland: It’s a great day, for Ireland and for Europe. The Irish people have spoken. They have said a resounding yes to Europe.
(5 October, 2009)
EU remains leading activist in efforts to achieve universal abolition of death penalty
The EU considers the death penalty to be a cruel and inhuman punishment, which represents an unacceptable denial of human dignity and integrity. In its efforts against the death penalty, the EU is actively supported by states from all regions of the world. The EU encourages public debate, strengthening public opposition and putting pressure on retentionist countries to abolish the death penalty, or at least introduce a moratorium as a first step.
(9 October, 2009)
The EESC and the Civic Chamber of the Russian Federation strengthen their cooperation
On 14 and 15 October 2009, a second joint workshop between the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) and the Civic Chamber of the Russian Federation (CCRF) will be hosted by EESC. The joint workshop aims to strengthen institutional cooperation between the EESC and the CCRF in accordance with the Memorandum of Understanding signed between them in 2008.
(9 October, 2009)
Speech by Benita Ferrero-Waldner, European Commissioner for External Relations and ENP
The Eastern Partnership is the newest innovation. Against a background of deteriorating governance standards and a region very badly hit by global financial and economic crisis, our aim is to anchor our Eastern neighbours more closely to us by offering more intensive help for reform than we have ever offered before. We offer the prospect of deep and comprehensive free trade areas, which in the long term, could grow into a regional network.
(13 October, 2009)
EC project experts to share European insurance market experience with Russian regions
The EC-funded project “Development of the Insurance Sector in the Russian Federation” will carry out seminars on insurance in the largest cities of Russian Federation through 12 October to 7 December 2009. The main objective of the seminars to be held in Novosibirsk, Khabarovsk, Yekaterinburg, Rostov on Don, Saint-Petersburg and Kazan is to promote development of Russian insurance sector.
(15 October, 2009)
New border cross point officially opens today at Chernyshevskoye, Kaliningrad oblast
Today, 20 October 2009, a new border crossing at Chernyshevskoye, Kaliningrad Oblast officially opens at the Russian-Lithuanian border. The EU contributed 8 million euro to this project, which covered construction of buildings, site roads, parking lots and service infrastructure for the new crossing. The main objective of creating a new border crossing has been to improve traffic flow capacity on the Pan-European Crete Corridor IX Branch B between Kaliningrad and Lithuania, as well as road connection between the Kaliningrad Oblast and the main part of the Russian Federation. It will have the capacity of catering a 1500 vehicle traffic flow (1150 cars, 50 buses and 350 trucks) per day.
(20 October, 2009)
Memorial to receive the 2009 Sakharov prize for human rights and freedom of thought
The President of the European Parliament Jerzy Buzek announced today that the 2009 Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought will be granted to Lyudmila Alexeyeva, Oleg Orlov and Sergei Kovalev on behalf of MEMORIAL and all other human rights defenders in Russia. The award ceremony will take place in Strasbourg on 16 December. The Memorial organisation, whose first leader was Andrei Sakharov, seeks to foster fundamental rights in post-Soviet states. The nomination argues that “Memorial promotes the truth about the political repression of the Soviet Union and fights against current human rights abuses in post-Soviet states to ensure their democratic future”.
(22 October, 2009)
EU must build on its internal strength to gain external power
The EU enlargement policy is a reflection of the Union’s global role, said the Enlargement Commissioner Olli Rehn Tuesday 3. November when he addressed the French senate. “The global credibility of the EU rests on its capacity to shape its neighbourhood”, Rehn said, “the 2004 enlargement, reuniting European countries after decades of division into blocks, is a sterling example of the pull of the EU’s soft power”.
(3 November, 2009)
Barroso statement on the signature of the instrument of ratification in the Czech Republic
“I welcome that President Klaus has taken the crucial step of signing the instrument of ratification on the Treaty of Lisbon in the Czech Republic. It’s now absolutely clear that the Lisbon Treaty will enter into force soon. At this point in time; I want to pay tribute to all those who have worked hard in the 27 member states to make the Lisbon Treaty a reality. The road is now open for the consultations on the appointment of the President of the European Council and Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative to begin. This will in turn allow me to start the process of nominating the new Commission”.
(4 November, 2009)
EC autumn forecast 2009-2011
On 3 November, the European Commission published its comprehensive autumn forecast 2009-2011. It projects that the EU economy will emerge from the recession in the second half of this year, although for 2009 as a whole, the GDP is set to fall by some 4%. Amidst the global crisis, Russia was hit by unexpectedly deep recession with a double-digit GDP fall in the first half of 2009. A relatively mild recovery is foreseen for 2010. The main reason behind this expected recovery is positive net exports, linked to a recovery in commodity prices.
(5 November, 2009)
The 3rd Equality Summit - Cooperation for Equality
Around 300 participants representing governments, the European Commission, civil society, the social partners, the business sector and the media are gathered in Stockholm to discuss how to cooperate on equal rights and opportunities. At the same time, negotiations chaired by the Swedish Presidency on a new anti-discrimination directive are ongoing. A range of issues will be highlighted at the conference, including diversity in the private and public sectors and how cooperation between different actors can be improved. A seminar will also be held on the role of the media with regard to diversity and equality. Two issues that will be given attention throughout are LGBT issues and the situation of the Roma.
(17 November, 2009)
Gas Coordination Group sees good level of preparedness of EU Member States and Energy Community
The Gas Coordination Group, chaired by the Commission, met this afternoon to analyze in detail all elements of the preparedness of the EU and the Energy Community for a potential supply disruption in the Winter 2009/2010. The Gas Coordination Group examined the gas consumption and storage levels in the EU and assessed emergency responses that have been put in place by the Members since January 2009. Special focus was given to the countries mostly affected by the January 2009 crisis in South-East Europe and the Energy Community parties.
(18 November, 2009)
Statement of President Barroso at the EU-Russia Summit on Climate Change
Speaking at the press conference following the EU-Russia Summit, President of the European Commission, Jose Manuel Barroso stated that “With the Copenhagen conference starting in just over 2 weeks, we have made very important progress today and I very much welcome the signal from President Medvedev today of their proposed emissions reduction target of 20 to 25%.
(18 November, 2009)
EU-Russia cooperation in action
At the EU-Russia Summit today Commissioner for External Relations and European Neighbourhood Policy, Benita Ferrero-Waldner and the Russian Minister for Regional Development, Viktor Basargin, signed the Financing Agreements for five cross-border co-operation programmes (CBC). These financing agreements are central to the implementation of cooperation programmes between the border regions of the European Union and Russia. The programmes have a total budget of approximately €437 million until 2013, and are funded by different sources: European Commission (€267 mio), Member States (€67 mio) and the Russian Federation (€103 mio). The co-financing by the Russian Federation confirms the spirit of partnership at the core of the European Neighbourhood and Partnership Instrument (ENPI).
(18 November, 2009)
New police communications network deployed across Russia under EU-funded project
The 3–million euro project, entitled “INTERPOL Network Modernization”, has provided the equipment, training and police services required by the Russian Ministry of Interior to access Interpol’s global police communications system, known as I-24/7. In addition to Interpol National Central Bureau (NCB) in Moscow, the General Prosecutor’s Office, the Federal Security Services Headquarters and 39 regional NCB branches benefit now from the direct access to critical Interpol police tools and services. The project was initially designed to continue assistance to the Russian Federation Ministry of Interior within the framework of the Action Plan adopted in 2000 by the European Council, called “Action Plan on Common Action for the Russian Federation on Combating Organized Crime”.
(20 November, 2009)
EU marks 20 years of Child Rights Protection and looks ahead
Today the world celebrates the 20th anniversary of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) – the most universally ratified human rights treaty. The Convention is the first international legally binding instrument establishing minimum standards for the protection and safeguarding of a full range of civil, political, social, economic and cultural rights of all children around the world. The internal policies of the EU and its external relations are based on the full respect and promotion of the Convention’s principles. This anniversary is an opportunity to recognise the progress achieved in the promotion and protection of children’s rights, but also to reflect on remaining challenges to enable children all over the world to fully enjoy their rights. To highlight the joint commitment to the principles of the UNCRC, the European Commission, UNICEF and UNRIC will jointly mark the 20 anniversary of the adoption of the Convention.
(20 November, 2009)
Commissioner Ferrero-Waldner warmly congratulates Commissioner Ashton
I warmly congratulate Baroness Ashton on her nomination as High Representative and Vice President of the European Commission. Cathy Ashton has done an excellent job as Trade Commissioner and, during this time, we have had a very good cooperation. Cathy Ashton will now face a formidable range of tasks and duties. She will have all my support in the next weeks and I am looking forward to working with her while Member of the Commission.
(20 November, 2009)
Joint EU statement on the US and Chinese announcements on Climate change
We welcome the news - in just the last 24 hours - that the US and China have both indicated what they are prepared to do, in concrete numbers, on mitigation. The US and China are essential players in this negotiation. Copenhagen must not be allowed to fail. At the same time, we must remember our common target: to keep global warming under 2AA°C to avoid dangerous climate change. The world is now waiting expectantly for an ambitious and comprehensive agreement to emerge. All sides must do everything they can towards that objective.
(26 November, 2009)
Presidency Statement on train wreck in Russia
The Presidency of the European Union deplores the tragic loss of lives in the evening of 27 November, when an express train derailed on its way from Moscow to Saint Petersburg. The Presidency supports Russia in its efforts to bring clarity into the causes of this tragic event. The Presidency conveys its profound sympathies and condolences to the families of the victims.
(28 November, 2009)
EU supports equal opportunities and active inclusion of persons with disabilities
On the eve of the International Day of Persons with Disability 2009, the European Union Delegation will host jointly with the Regional Society of Disabled People “Perspektiva” and Senior Human Rights Advisor of the UN Country Team in the Russian Federation a roundtable on how to improve legislation and state policies following the signature by Russia of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and its upcoming ratification.
(30 November, 2009)
The EU Delegation to Russia marks International Day of Persons with Disabilities
Three events are being organised by the EU Delegation to Russia to mark the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (3 December). These events are part of the EU’s wider efforts to promote equal opportunities for the persons with disabilities in line with the EU Disability Action Plan 2003-2010 including the mainstreaming of disability issues to the external cooperation. Just one day ahead of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, on 2 December, the Delegation of the European Union hosts a roundtable on ratification of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. On 7 December, the IVth Russia Forum on Inclusive Education will be organised by NGO “Humanitarian Support Charitable Foundation” and supported by the EU Delegation. A final conference of the EU-funded project “Rehabilitation System: Services for the Disabled” will be held on 10 December.
(2 December, 2009)
Speech by Catherine Ashton High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy
The goal of the High Representative is to present a clearer and stronger voice to our international partners, but we must also explain clearly to our own citizens what we aim to achieve. I am mindful of the fact that there is still much work to be done here. As some commentators have put it, citizens were not dancing in the streets on entry into force of the Lisbon Treaty. Even our best efforts were unlikely to achieve that, but there is much we can do to improve understanding of our work, and I want to play my part in that.
(2 December, 2009)
European Commission welcomes the entry into force of the Treaty of Lisbon
The Treaty of Lisbon enters into force today – 1 December 2009. The occasion will be marked by a ceremony in the City of Lisbon organised jointly by the Portuguese Government, the Swedish Presidency and the European Commission. The Commission believes that the new treaty provides significant new benefits for citizens and will settle the institutional debate for the foreseeable future. This will allow the European Union to fully concentrate on managing a smooth exit from the economic and financial crisis and pushing ahead with the 2020 strategy for greener growth.
(2 December, 2009)
1st EU-Russia Short Film Festival opens in Moscow on 4 December
The Festival presents to the public a selection of 30 works by European and Russian filmmakers. During the event, well-known cinematographers and representatives of the film industry will give master classes and participate in round tables focused on short films as a specific cinematographic art form and on related topics such as directing, producing and distributing short films within the EU and Russia. The Festival runs until 6 December.
(3 December, 2009)
EU-funded project on harmonization of environmental standards presents its results
This € 2.5 mln project supported cooperation with the Russian authorities in furthering legislation and the regulatory framework for promoting integrated environmental permits based on the best available techniques (BAT) in industries. The Russian partners of the project included the Ministry of Natural Resources and Ecology complemented by environment committees of the Federation Council, Russian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs as well as the Russian Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
(3 December, 2009)
Gas Coordination Group discusses the gas supply outlook and the emergency preparedness in the EU
In a meeting held today in Brussels, the Gas Coordination Group, under the chairmanship of the Commission, has discussed with Russian Gas Company Gazprom the gas supply and demand outlook and investment strategy of the company in both Russia and the EU. During the meeting, the Group also had an exchange of views with Ukrainian gas company Naftogaz concerning the transit of Russian supplies via Ukraine to the EU and the outlook for the winter 2009/2010 in Ukraine.
(14 December, 2009)
EU project on prevention of human trafficking in Russian Federation presents its results
The project aimed to support the improvement of national legislation and policies in the area of counter-human trafficking while building the capacity of law enforcement bodies to more effectively tackle the problem of human trafficking. Among the results of the project are enhanced cooperation of counter-trafficking efforts between the government and non-governmental entities, increased awareness of human trafficking among at-risk groups and the general public and provision of direct medical, psycho-social and reintegration assistance to victims of human trafficking at the Rehabilitation centre in Moscow. Over 400 victims of trafficking have received direct assistance and have been returned to their home regions during the project’s implementation.
(14 December, 2009)
EU and Russia launch a large-scale e-government project
On 17 December the Delegation of the European Union to Russia will host a launching conference of an EU-funded project “Support to e-Government in the Russian Federation – Government-to-citizens electronic services”. This 2-million euro project aims to increase administrative efficiency and improve access to government services by Russian citizens. The project will run for two years. The project will contribute to improving the relations between government and citizens by strengthening transparency and accountability of the state to its citizens, increasing administrative efficiency, and improving access to government services. The project shall increase the cooperation within and between relevant Russian agencies and establish a sustainable cooperation on the e-Government issues with the EU partners.
(14 December 2009)
Statement of President Barroso at the UN High Level Segment
Here in Copenhagen, on Friday, we must take a significant step forward in our common actions to tackle climate change - and its impact particularly on the poorest and most vulnerable economies. And I stress common action. Our deal must enable us collectively to do much more on mitigation than each of us has been able to achieve individually. It must provide a robust framework for transparency and comparability.
(16 December, 2009)
Joint statement of the EU Presidency and the EC on the state of play of the climate change
The European Union is concerned by the lack of progress in the negotiations. We encourage all parties to urgently go to the outer limits of their flexibility so that talks can move forward. The European Union has put concrete proposals on the table and maintains its conditional offer to do more, if others, especially the major emitters, improve their offers as well.
(17 December, 2009)
Statement of President Barroso to the Plenary of the Copenhagen conference on climate change
Ladies and gentlemen, it is now obvious that we will not get all we had hoped for. But what remains on our side here in Copenhagen is a critically important milestone in the battle against climate change. We are making progress on transparency and internationalisation of domestic action. More importantly, our own binding offer has triggered a long list of strong new initial and reduction commitments from developed and developing countries which will, if we get a deal, be subject to both robust monitoring and review. Indeed, the European Union remains ready and willing to move from a binding 20% reduction to 30% from 1990 to 2020 if others are also ready to move on ambitious deals.
(18 December, 2009)
The European Union supports 14 new projects aimed at promoting human rights and democracy in Russia
The Delegation of the European Union announces the launch of 14 new projects to be implemented by Russian civil society organisations in the field of democracy and human rights. These projects have been selected under the European Instrument for Democracy and Human Rights - after a one year-long selection procedure, in which 150 Russian non-governmental organisations have participated. The implementation of the projects will start in January 2010.
(18 December, 2009)
Serbia applies for EU membership
This afternoon, Serbia submitted a formal application for membership of the EU. Serbian President Boris Tadiс handed his country’s application for EU membership to Swedish Prime Minister Fredrik Reinfeldt in Stockholm. “I welcome this historic step for Serbia. It reflects the Serbian government’s strong determination and the broad popular support for EU membership. A Serbian membership is
important not just for Serbia, but for the region as a whole. This is an important addition to the EU family”, said Fredrik Reinfeldt at a press conference.
(22 December, 2009)
Green light from the Council for the EC to negotiate a broad Nuclear PA with Russia
The Council of the European Union adopted today a mandate authorising the Commission to negotiate a partnership agreement for the peaceful uses of nuclear energy between the European Atomic Energy Community (Euratom) and the Russian Federation. Russia is one of the main global suppliers of nuclear materials and equipment. It is also a key supplier of nuclear fuel and related nuclear fuel cycle services to nuclear power plant operators in the EU.
(22 December, 2009)
European Commission: no longer a risk of disruption of Russian oil supplies to EU via Ukraine
Today, the European Commission has been informed by the Russian government that there is no longer a risk of disruption of Russian oil supplies to the EU via Ukraine. The Early Warning Mechanism which was triggered by the Russian government yesterday for the first time since its adoption in November 2009 has thus been shown to be a useful communication tool in these types of situation.
(29 December, 2009)
Opening remarks by High Representative / Vice President Catherine Ashton High at the EP
One of the biggest tasks flowing from the Lisbon Treaty is the creation of the European External Action Service. This will be a top priority for me. This is not just a bureaucratic exercise. But a “once in a generation” opportunity to build something that brings together all the elements of our engagement – political, economic and military – to implement one coherent strategy. That is my vision. We need to be active and operational both on the global issues, where Europe is expected to play its full role. And in our immediate neighbourhood, where we are expected to take the lead.
(11 January, 2010)
EC provides a 3 million Euro initial aid package and launches an EU-coordinated response to Haiti
Following initial assessments of the situation on the ground, ECHO will use its fast-track relief funding to provide a €3 million initial package of humanitarian assistance. The funding will be used to meet basic needs of the stricken population including shelter and medical assistance. Funding is channelled through experienced international relief organisations.
(15 January, 2010)
Herman Van Rompuy: European Union will develop a new economic strategy
Herman Van ROMPUY, President of the European Council, visited Berlin yesterday to attend a meeting with Ms Angela MERKEL, Chancellor of Germany. Speaking to journalists prior to the meeting, ROMPUY stressed “two big challenges facing us which will require the full engagement of the EU at the highest level”: tackling the economic crisis and responding to the climate change. The President said he “took the initiative to convene an informal meeting of the Heads of State and Government on 11 February, to examine these two issues”.
(14 January, 2010)
Comments to the press by Vice President/HR Catherine Ashton on the situation in Haiti
Within hours of the disaster, the European Commission’s humanitarian department provided 3 million Euros in an initial, emergency humanitarian aid response. This money is channelled through our international humanitarian partners – such as the UN relief agencies and the International Red Cross family – to ensure life-saving supplies get to the people of Haiti right now. Namely: first aid medicines; water; food; and tents. We are now putting all the different elements together that are at our disposal: Humanitarian relief, civil protection, but also other instruments that as satellite images provided by our Global Monitoring System (GMES) that are important for the coordination of the UN efforts on the ground.
(14 January, 2010)
Summary of the hearing of Catherine Ashton - Foreign Affairs
Catherine Ashton, the High Representative-designate for foreign policy, was questioned by the Foreign Affairs Committee about the EU diplomatic service, her dual role working for both Council and Commission, and foreign policy issues ranging from energy security to Afghanistan during her three-hour confirmation hearing at Parliament on Monday. Under the Lisbon Treaty, the High Representative for Foreign Affairs is also a Vice-President of the Commission. Some MEPs were concerned about how this double-hatted job would work, but Ms Ashton saw the combination of roles as “an asset”.
(12 January, 2010)
Gas Coordination Group discusses security of gas supply in the light of the current winter situation
In its first meeting in 2010, the Gas Coordination Group, under the chairmanship of the Commission, has focused today on the assessment of the situation on security of gas supply in the EU-27 and countries of the Energy Community and discussed priorities for the work of the Group in 2010. Considering the severe winter conditions prevailing in some Member States, the Gas Coordination Group, comprising Member States and the European organisations representing the gas industry, regulators and the consumers, assessed today the situation in the EU-27 and Energy Community contracting parties regarding gas demand and supply, storage levels and gas imports from third countries. In the light of the exceptional situation in some countries due to specific weather and Import conditions the Commission noted that storage levels in the EU are above last years’ levels and welcomed the ability of the European gas industry to ensure continuous gas supplies to all consumers.
(12 January, 2010)
European ministers aim to set energy targets
The Energy Action Plan for 2010-2014, which includes sections on sustainability, the fight against climate change and security in energy supplies, among others, as well as the European Strategic Energy Technology Plan, will be the focus of the discussions at the Informal Council on Energy, which will begin this Thursday in Seville, in parallel with the council meeting of the European Ministers of the Environment also being held there.
(14 January, 2010)
Summary of the hearing of Connie Hedegaard - climate change
In five years from now, “I would like to see a Europe that is the most climate-friendly region in the world” said climate change Commissioner-designate Connie Hedegaard at her three-hour hearing on Friday. Members of the Environment, Industry and Transport committees quizzed Ms Hedegaard on the Copenhagen climate change conference results, her climate protection strategies and nuclear energy. If approved, Ms Hedegaard would become EU’s first climate change Commissioner.
(15 January, 2010)
December 2009 Euro area annual inflation up to 0.9% EU up to 1.4%
In December 2009, the lowest annual inflation rates were observed in Ireland (-2.6%), Estonia (-1.9%) and Latvia (-1.4%), and the highest in Hungary (5.4%), Romania (4.7%) and Poland (3.8%). Compared with November 2009, annual inflation rose in twenty Member States, remained stable in four and fell in two. The lowest 12-month averages 4 up to December 2009 were registered in Ireland (-1.7%), Portugal (-0.9%) and Spain (-0.3%), and the highest in Romania (5.6%), Lithuania (4.2%), Hungary and Poland (both 4.0%).
(15 January, 2010)
Summary of the hearing of Gunther Oettinger - Energy
Security of energy supply, energy efficiency, the role of nuclear power, energy poverty and his own suitability for the post were among matters raised by Members of the EP Industry and Environment Committee at the hearing of Günther Oettinger, Commissioner-designate for Energy.
(15 January, 2010)
EU Aid Chief to travel to earthquake stricken Haiti
European Commissioner for Development and Humanitarian Aid Karel De Gucht will travel to Port-au-Prince early next week to see first-hand the situation of the people of Haiti. Commissioner De Gucht will travel to Haiti following his participation in the emergency EU Development Ministers meeting to be chaired by Vice-President/High Representative Catherine Ashton on Monday. The meeting will discuss immediate emergency relief measures and the EU’s contribution to post-disaster rehabilitation and reconstruction.
(16 January, 2010)
EU and Iraq sign a Strategic Energy Partnership Memorandum of Understanding
The European Union and the Republic of Iraq have today signed in Baghdad, Iraq, a Memorandum of Understanding on a “Strategic Energy Partnership” which provides a political framework for reinforcing energy relations between Iraq and the EU. It also outlines priorities for future cooperation, taking into account the possible role of Iraq as a natural gas supplier for the Southern Corridor and that Iraq has the world’s third largest proven petroleum reserves; Iraq could become an energy bridge between the Middle East, the Mediterranean and the EU.
(18 January, 2010)
European Parliament: plenary session on 18-21 January
Spanish Prime Minister José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero will debate with MEPs the programme of the Spanish presidency of the Council during the first half of 2010. Mr Zapatero will have a bilateral meeting with President Buzek and also join him for a press conference.
(18 January, 2010)
Herman Van Rompuy, President of the European Council: weekly programme
Herman VAN ROMPUY, President of the European Council, will have the following activities in the week of 18 January 2010: 18 January: visit to Bucharest, meetings with Traian BASESCU, President of Romania and with Prime Minister Emil BOC; 19 January: visit to London, working breakfast with Gordon BROWN, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom; 21 January: visit to Nicosia, working lunch with Demetris CHRISTOFIAS, President of Cyprus.
(18 January, 2010)
Agreement on the need to consolidate a rapid, efficient process against climate change
Speaking at the close of the Informal Council of Environment Ministers EU, the Spanish State Secretary for Climate Change Teresa Ribera said that the EU Environment ministers had expressed a shared “will” to consolidate a “rapid and efficient” process against climate change.
(18 January, 2010)
Catherine Ashton: Rebuilding Haiti is a priority for the EU
On the eve of the meeting of Development Ministers on Monday in Brussels, Vice President and High Representative Catherine Ashton underlined the EU’s determination to help Haiti in overcoming the consequences of the devastating earthquake. Ministers will discuss the EU’s contribution to the short-term relief operation, but also in the forthcoming reconstruction efforts in the disaster area. On Wednesday next week, VP/HR Ashton will travel to the United States for meetings at the UN headquarters in New York and with the US Administration.
(18 January, 2010)
EC supports relief efforts inA Haiti with first damage assessment: facts and maps
More than 4000 physical structures were destroyed or damaged in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, by the magnitude 7 earthquake that struck the country on 12th January 2010. About 2000 residential buildings have partially or totally collapsed and the same number of buildings shows severe damage. A number of critical infrastructures such as government buildings, educational structures and hospitals have collapsed or are severely damaged. These are the preliminary findings of a rapid damage assessment carried out by the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre (JRC) based on the analysis of very high resolution satellite imagery acquired before and after the disaster. Rapid damage assessment provides valuable information in order to effectively plan relief and assistance measures, as well as for subsequent reconstruction and recovery planning efforts.
(18 January, 2010)
The Programme of the Spanish Presidency of the EU
Spain takes on the Presidency of the Council of the European Union on January 1st, 2010, a strategic moment for Europe. The entry into force of the Treaty of Lisbon opens up a new period in which we have an appropriate legal framework to set into motion the Europe we need: a stronger, more united and more efficient Europe to respond to citizens’ concerns.
(18 January, 2010)
Council conclusions on the earthquake in Haiti
In this regard, the Council requests that an EU-wide response to the post-emergency rehabilitation, recovery and reconstruction for long-term development needs of Haiti be submitted as soon as possible, which makes full use of all resources, expertise and funding available from EU and Member States, takes into account Member States’ contributions to multilateral bodies and clearly addresses division of labour among the EU institutions and Member States, while fully linking relief to rehabilitation and development (LRRD). This response shall integrate EU development partners’ contribution and notably the ACP Group and CARIFORUM, bearing in mind the possible impact of the current crisis on neighbouring countries. The EU response should take into account the wider efforts of the International Community in favour of Haiti. The Council takes note that the preliminary indications from the Commission on the financial contribution from the EU instruments to finance the longer-term response will amount to 200 million EUR.
(18 January, 2010)
Statement by Herman Van Rompuy, President of the European Council, on Haiti
“We Europeans have been deeply moved by the plight of Haiti and its people. As I said in Berlin, my heart is with the families of the numerous victims of this catastrophe. I remain hopeful that the injured will recover soon and that the rescue teams will continue do wonders and free people trapped under the rubble. The European Union is committed to Haiti, a country with which Europeans have many links”.
(18 January, 2010)
Statement of President Barroso on the resignation of Mrs Jeleva
Today, President Barroso took note of Mrs Jeleva’s withdrawal as commissioner-designate. He fully respects this personal decision. Bulgarian Prime Minister Borisov has in the meantime informed President Barroso of his intention to suggest Ms Kristalina Georgieva, currently Vice-President of the World Bank, as member of the European Commission.
(19 January, 2010)
Conclusions of Agriculture and Fisheries Council meeting
The Council took note of a presentation by the Spanish Presidency on its working programme in the fields of agriculture and fisheries. The priorities of agriculture policies will include: the future of the common agriculture policy beyond 2013: “Horizon 2020”; the competitiveness of agriculture and the agro-food industry; and the reinforcement of the role of women in rural areas. The priorities of fisheries policies will include: the reform of the common fisheries policy; the reform of the common market organization of fishery and aquaculture products; the eco-label regulation for fisheries products; the access and fishing efforts concerning deep sea species; and the EU’s external fisheries policy.
(19 January, 2010)
Delegation website: http://www.delrus.ec.europa.eu/en/index.htm