Explanatory Memorandum to COM(2007)351 - Signing and conclusion of the Interim Agreement on trade and trade-related matters between the EC and Montenegro

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dossier COM(2007)351 - Signing and conclusion of the Interim Agreement on trade and trade-related matters between the EC and Montenegro.
source COM(2007)351 EN
date 21-06-2007
1. The attached Proposal for a Council Decision constitutes the legal instrument for the signing and conclusion of the Interim Agreement between the European Community, on the one part, and the Republic of Montenegro, hereinafter called Montenegro, on the other part.[1]

2. In accordance with the negotiating directives adopted by the Council on 24 July 2006 the Commission concluded on 15 March 2007 the negotiations for a Stabilisation and Association Agreement (SAA) with Montenegro. The Commission is proposing the signature of the SAA to the Council in parallel, but the SAA only enters into force after ratification by Montenegro, the Community and the Member States.

4. Pending the ratification of the SAA, the Commission, in accordance with the negotiating directives and Article 139 of the SAA itself, is proposing to conclude an Interim Agreement to allow the trade and trade-related provisions of the SAA to enter into force as soon as possible following SAA signature. The Commission has negotiated the text of an Interim Agreement with Montenegro, initialling it on 28 February 2006.

5. The more favourable trade concessions granted by Council Regulation (EC) No 2007/2000 of 18 September 2000, introducing exceptional trade measures for countries and territories participating in or linked to the European Union's Stabilisation and Association process, amending Regulation (EC) No 2820/98, and repealing Regulations (EC) No 1763/1999 and (EC) No 6/2000 i, will continue to apply, in parallel to the Interim Agreement.

6. The Commission asks the Council to approve the results of the negotiations, and to sign and conclude the Interim Agreement on behalf of the European Community on the basis of the attached proposal.