PDF to HTML - Convert PDF files to HTML files

Det Udenrigspolitiske Nævn 2013-14
UPN Alm.del Bilag 248
Offentligt

Council of the

European Union

12091/14

(OR. en)

PROVISIONAL VERSION

PRESSE 421

PR CO 41

PRESS RELEASE

3330th Council meeting

Foreign Affairs

Brussels, 22 July 2014

President

Catherine Ashton

High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and

Security Policy

PRESS

Rue de la Loi 175 B – 1048 BRUSSELS Tel.: +32 (0)2 281 9442 / 6319 Fax: +32 (0)2 281 8026

[email protected] http://www.consilium.europa.eu/press

12091/14

PDF to HTML - Convert PDF files to HTML files

PROVISIO AL VERSIO

22 July 2014

Main results of the Council

Ukraine

The Council was shocked and deeply saddened by the downing of the Malaysian Airlines Flight

MH17 in Donetsk and the tragic loss of so many innocent lives. Ministers observed a minute of

silence to pay tribute to the victims.

The Council called on the separatist groups in the area to ensure full, immediate, safe and secure

access to the site in order to proceed with victim identification as well as to recover remains of

those deceased. The EU supports the call for a full, transparent and independent international

investigation in accordance with international civil aviation guidelines. In this context, the Council

urged Russia to actively use its influence over the illegally armed groups.

EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Catherine Ashton, said: "Those

directly or indirectly responsible for bringing down this plane must be held accountable and

brought to justice".

The Council agreed to accelerate the preparation of the sanctions agreed at the European Council

of 16 July. It agreed to expand restrictive measures with a view to targeting individuals supporting

or benefitting from Russian decision-makers responsible for the destabilisation of Eastern Ukraine.

The Council also asked the Commission and the European External Action Service to finalise

preparatory work on possible targeted measures and to present proposals for action, including on

access to capital markets, defence, dual-use goods and sensitive technologies, including in the

energy sector.

In addition, the Council established the EU Advisory Mission for Civilian Security Sector Reform

Ukraine, which will advise on a revised strategy for the civilian security sector in Ukraine.

Middle East peace process

Ministers held an in-depth discussion on recent developments in the Middle East.

High Representative Ashton said: "We are extremely concern at the continued escalation of

violence in Gaza and condemn the serious loss of life". The Council called for an immediate

cessation of the hostilities based on a return to the 3ovember 2012 ceasefire agreement. In this

regard, the Council welcomed on-going efforts by regional partners, in particular by Egypt, and

reiterated its readiness to provide the necessary support.

12091/14

PDF to HTML - Convert PDF files to HTML files

PROVISIO AL VERSIO

22 July 2014

CO TE TS

PARTICIPA TS................................................................................................................................ 5

ITEMS DEBATED

Ukraine................................................................................................................................................. 7

Middle East Peace Process................................................................................................................... 9

Iraq ..................................................................................................................................................... 12

OTHER ITEMS APPROVED

FOREIG3 AFFAIRS

–

Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia............................................................................................................. 13

EU list of terrorist individuals and entities ............................................................................................................ 13

Restrictive measures - Iraq .................................................................................................................................... 13

Restrictive measures - Guinea-Bissau ................................................................................................................... 13

Restrictive measures - Libya ................................................................................................................................. 13

Restrictive measures - Syria .................................................................................................................................. 14

High Representative's report on the Common Foreign and Security Policy.......................................................... 14

Central African Republic....................................................................................................................................... 14

Great Lakes region ................................................................................................................................................ 17

EU action plan for Pakistan ................................................................................................................................... 20

EU action against the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction ..................................................................... 20

Where declarations, conclusions or resolutions have been formally adopted by the Council, this is indicated

in the heading for the item concerned and the text is placed between quotation marks.

Documents for which references are given in the text are available on the Council's Internet site

(http://www.consilium.europa.eu).

Acts adopted with statements for the Council minutes which may be released to the public are indicated by

an asterisk; these statements are available on the Council's Internet site or may be obtained from the Press

Office.

12091/14

PDF to HTML - Convert PDF files to HTML files

PROVISIO AL VERSIO

COMMO3 SECURITY A3D DEFE3CE POLICY

–

22 July 2014

EU advisory mission on civilian security sector reform Ukraine .......................................................................... 20

EUCAP Sahel Niger .............................................................................................................................................. 20

EUCAP Nestor ...................................................................................................................................................... 20

European Global Navigation Satellite System....................................................................................................... 21

European Security and Defence College ............................................................................................................... 21

Implementation of December 2013 European Council conclusions...................................................................... 21

12091/14

PDF to HTML - Convert PDF files to HTML files

PROVISIO AL VERSIO

22 July 2014

PARTICIPA TS

High Representative

Ms Catherine ASHTON

Belgium:

Mr Didier REYNDERS

Bulgaria:

Mr Kristian VIGENIN

Czech Republic:

Mr Lubomir ZAORÁLEK

Denmark:

Mr Martin LIDEGAARD

Germany:

Mr Frank-Walter STEINMEIER

Estonia:

Mr Urmas PAET

Ireland:

Mr Charlie FLANAGAN

Greece:

Mr Evangelos VENIZELOS

Spain:

Mr José Manuel GARCIA-MARGALLO Y MARFIL

France:

Mr Laurent FABIUS

Croatia:

Ms Vesna PUSIĆ

Italy:

Ms Federica MOGHERINI

Cyprus:

Mr Ioannis KASOULIDES

Latvia:

Mr Edgars RINKĒVIČS

Lithuania:

Mr Linas A. LINKEVIČIUS

Luxembourg:

Mr Christian BRAUN

Hungary:

Mr Tibor NAVRACSICS

Malta:

Mr George VELLA

etherlands:

Mr Frans TIMMERMANS

Austria:

Mr Sebastian KURZ

Poland:

Mr Radosław SIKORSKI

Portugal:

Mr Bruno MAÇÃES

High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and

Security Policy

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs,

External Trade and European Affairs

Minister for Foreign Affairs

Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs

Minister for Foreign Affairs

Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs

Minister for Foreign Affairs and Cooperation

Minister for Foreign Affairs

First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign and

European Affairs

Minister for Foreign Affairs

Permanent Representative

Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade

Minister for Foreign Affairs

Federal Minister for Europe, Integration and Foreign

Affairs

Minister for Foreign Affairs

State Secretary for European Affairs

12091/14

PDF to HTML - Convert PDF files to HTML files

PROVISIO AL VERSIO

Romania:

Mr Titus CORLĂȚEAN

Slovenia:

Mr Karl ERJAVEC

Slovakia:

Mr Miroslav LAJČÁK

Finland:

Mr Erkki TUOMIOJA

Sweden:

Mr Carl BILDT

United Kingdom:

Mr Philip HAMMOND

Commission:

Mr Štefan FÜLE

Minister for Foreign Affairs

22 July 2014

Deputy Prime Minister, Minister for Foreign Affairs

Minister for Foreign Affairs

Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs

(Foreign Secretary)

Member

12091/14

PDF to HTML - Convert PDF files to HTML files

PROVISIO AL VERSIO

ITEMS DEBATED

Ukraine

22 July 2014

The Council discussed the latest events in Ukraine. It adopted the following conclusions:

"1)

The EU and its Member States are shocked and deeply saddened by the downing of the

Malaysian Airlines Flight MH17 in Donetsk, Ukraine and the tragic loss of so many innocent lives.

Citizens from many nationalities including many from the European Union have been killed. We

wish to convey our deepest condolences to the people and governments of all the affected nations

and in particular to the families of the victims. The EU welcomes unanimous adoption of the UNSC

Resolution of 21 July 2014 and looks forward to its full implementation.

The EU calls on the separatist groups in the area to ensure full, immediate, safe and secure

access to the site and surrounding area, including a viable security corridor, in order to proceed with

victim identification as well as to recover remains and possessions of those deceased in the downing

and provide for swift, professional and dignified repatriation of the victims. The EU expects all

those in the area to preserve the crash site intact, including by refraining from destroying, moving,

or disturbing remains, wreckage, equipment, debris or personal belongings.

The EU supports the call of the UNSC and OSCE Permanent Council for a full, transparent

and independent international investigation in accordance with the international civil aviation

guidelines, in co-ordination with the ICAO, including with participation of technical and forensic

experts from the Ukrainian, Malaysian, and Dutch governments as well as other technical and

forensic experts. All relevant materials recovered from the site should be made available to the

international investigation immediately and without interference.

The EU emphasises that those directly and indirectly responsible for the downing must be

held accountable and brought to justice and calls on all states and parties to fully cooperate to this

end.

The Council urges the Russian Federation to actively use its influence over the illegally

armed groups in order to achieve full, immediate, safe and secure access to the site, full cooperation

with the work on recovering remains and possessions and full cooperation with the independent

investigation, including unhindered access to the site of the downing for as long as needed for the

investigation and possible follow up investigations. The OSCE Special Monitoring Mission, already

present in Eastern Ukraine, must be allowed to play its full role in facilitating and safe-guarding the

access.

The Council urges Russia to stop the increasing flow of weapons, equipment and militants across

the border in order to achieve rapid and tangible results in de-escalation. The Council further urges

Russia to withdraw its additional troops from the border area.

12091/14

PDF to HTML - Convert PDF files to HTML files

PROVISIO AL VERSIO

22 July 2014

The Council agrees to accelerate the preparation of targeted measures agreed at the Special

meeting of the European Council on 16 July, in particular to establish immediately a list of entities

and persons, including from the Russian Federation, to be listed under the enhanced criteria adopted

by the Council on 18 July, then to expand the restrictive measures with a view to targeting

individuals or entities who actively provide material or financial support to or are benefiting from

the Russian decision makers responsible for the annexation of Crimea or the destabilisation of

Eastern-Ukraine, and to adopt additional measures to restrict trade with and investment in Crimea

and Sevastopol, at the latest by the end of July.

The Council recalls the previous commitments by the European Council and remains ready

to introduce without delay a package of further significant restrictive measures, if full and

immediate cooperation on above mentioned demands fails to materialise. To this end, the Council

requests the Commission and the EEAS to finalise their preparatory work on possible targeted

measures and to present proposals for taking action, including on access to capital markets, defence,

dual use goods, and sensitive technologies, including in the energy sector. The results of this work

will be presented on Thursday, 24th July.

The Council recalls the four specific steps requested by the European Council in its 27 June

Conclusions. It strongly condemns the continuation of illegal activities by armed militants in

Eastern Ukraine and elsewhere, which has caused the loss of life of many innocent people. Further

consideration will be given to the possible designation of these groups as terrorist organisations.

The Council stresses its support for a peaceful settlement of the crisis in Ukraine, and the need to

implement President Poroshenko's peace plan without any further delay. It also stresses the urgent

need to agree on a genuine and sustainable cease-fire by all parties on the basis of the Berlin

Declaration of 2 July with the aim of restoring Ukraine's territorial integrity. To this end, the

Council calls for support for the OSCE and the Trilateral Contact Group on their effort for creating

conditions for a ceasefire. The Council also reiterates the importance of an effective border control,

including through OSCE observers, and the swift release of all hostages. The Council commends

and fully supports the efforts of the OSCE as an essential facilitator in the conflict."

The Council also established the EU advisory mission for civilian security sector reform Ukraine

(EUAM Ukraine), a civilian mission under the EU's Common Security and Defence Policy to assist

Ukraine in the reform of the civilian security sector. For more details, see

press release.

12091/14

PDF to HTML - Convert PDF files to HTML files

PROVISIO AL VERSIO

Middle East Peace Process

22 July 2014

Over lunch, ministers held an in-depth discussion on the latest developments in the Middle East.

The Council adopted the following conclusions:

"1.

The EU is extremely concerned at the continued escalation of violence in Gaza and calls

for an immediate cessation of the hostilities based on a return to the November 2012

ceasefire agreement. In this regard the EU welcomes on-going efforts by regional partners,

and in particular by Egypt, and reiterates its readiness to provide the necessary support to

this end.

The EU strongly condemns the indiscriminate firing of rockets into Israel by Hamas and

militant groups in the Gaza Strip, directly harming civilians. These are criminal and

unjustifiable acts. The EU calls on Hamas to immediately put an end to these acts and to

renounce violence. All terrorist groups in Gaza must disarm. The EU strongly condemns

calls on the civilian population of Gaza to provide themselves as human shields.

The EU condemns the loss of hundreds of civilian lives, among them many women and

children. While recognizing Israel's legitimate right to defend itself against any attacks, the

EU underlines that the Israeli military operation must be proportionate and in line with

international humanitarian law. The EU stresses the need for protection of civilians at all

times. The EU is particularly appalled by the human cost of the Israeli military operation in

Shuja’iyya, and is deeply concerned at the rapidly deteriorating humanitarian situation. All

sides must meet their obligations and immediately allow safe and full humanitarian access

in Gaza for the urgent distribution of assistance. The EU calls on all sides to implement in

good faith an immediate cease fire.

This tragic escalation of hostilities confirms again the unsustainable nature of the status

quo with regard to the situation in the Gaza Strip. While fully recognizing Israel's

legitimate security needs, the EU underlines that the humanitarian and socio-economic

situation in Gaza must be addressed. It reiterates its call for the immediate, sustained and

unconditional opening of crossings for the flow of humanitarian aid, commercial goods

and persons to and from the Gaza Strip, in line with UNSC resolution 1860 (2009).

The EU stands ready, including through the reactivation of the EUBAM Rafah mission, if

conditions allow, to contribute to a comprehensive and sustainable solution meeting the

legitimate security, economic and humanitarian needs of Israelis and Palestinians.

12091/14

PDF to HTML - Convert PDF files to HTML files

PROVISIO AL VERSIO

22 July 2014

The EU strongly condemns the abduction and brutal murder of teenagers from both

sides. The perpetrators of these barbaric acts must be brought to justice. The EU

commends Israeli and Palestinian leaders for their condemnation of the killings of the

abducted teenagers and it deplores all irresponsible statements made in this context on

either side. The EU believes that the tragic events of the past weeks reinforce the need for

Israelis and Palestinians to work together to fight all forms of terror and violence and to

combat incitement.

Recent events in the wider Middle East pose serious threats to the EU as well as to its

immediate neighbours. The European Union reiterates its fundamental commitment to

the security of Israel, including with regard to current and emerging threats in the region.

The EU has fully supported US-led peace efforts and underlines that these efforts must not

go to waste. The EU is convinced that the regional context and the current crisis make a

two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict more necessary than ever. The EU

urges the parties to resume meaningful negotiations with the aim of achieving a

comprehensive peace agreement based on a two-state solution. The only way to resolve the

conflict is through an agreement that ends the occupation which began in 1967, that ends

all claims and that fulfils the aspirations of both parties. A one state reality would not be

compatible with these aspirations.

The EU recalls that a lasting solution to the conflict must be achieved on the basis of the

relevant UN Security Council Resolutions, the Madrid principles including land for peace,

the Roadmap, the agreements previously reached by the parties and of the Arab Peace

Initiative, with the State of Israel and an independent, democratic, contiguous, sovereign

and viable State of Palestine, living side by side in peace and security and mutual

recognition. The EU believes that clear parameters defining the basis for negotiations are

key elements for a successful outcome. The EU has set out and will continue to actively

promote its position with regard to parameters in Council Conclusions of December 2009

and December 2010, and as expressed by the EU in the UN Security Council on 21 April

2011. On this basis, the EU is willing to work with the US and other partners on an

initiative to relaunch the peace negotiations, based on the following parameters:

–

An agreement on the borders of the two states, based on 4 June 1967 lines with

equivalent land swaps as may be agreed between the parties. The EU will recognize

changes to the pre-1967 borders, including with regard to Jerusalem, only when

agreed by the parties.

Security arrangements that, for Palestinians, respect their sovereignty and show that

the occupation is over; and, for Israelis, protect their security, prevent the resurgence

of terrorism and deal effectively with security threats, including with new and vital

threats in the region.

–

12091/14

PDF to HTML - Convert PDF files to HTML files

PROVISIO AL VERSIO

–

A just, fair, agreed and realistic solution to the refugee question.

22 July 2014

Fulfilment of the aspirations of both parties for Jerusalem. A way must be found

through negotiations to resolve the status of Jerusalem as the future capital of both

states.

The preservation of the viability of the two-state solution must remain a priority .

The developments on the ground make the prospect of a two-state solution increasingly

unattainable. Reaffirming its commitment to implement the Council Conclusions of May

and December 2012 as well as the applicability of international human rights and

humanitarian law in the occupied Palestinian territory, the EU calls on Israel to halt

continued settlement expansion, including East Jerusalem, especially in sensitive areas

such as Har Homa, Givat Hamatos and E1, which severely threatens the two state solution;

to put an end to settler violence, to the worsening of living conditions for Palestinians in

Area C, to demolitions - including of EU funded projects -, evictions and forced transfers,

and to increasing tensions and challenges to the status quo on the Temple Mount/Haram al-

Sharif.

A fundamental change of policy on these negative developments is necessary to prevent

the irreversible loss of the two state solution.

The EU has welcomed the appointment of a Palestinian government of independent

personalities and the declaration by President Abbas that this new government was

committed to the principle of the two-state solution based on the 1967 borders, to the

recognition of Israel's legitimate right to exist, to upholding non-violence and to the respect

of previous agreements. The EU's engagement with the new Palestinian government is

based on its continued adherence, in words and actions, to these policies and commitments.

The EU underlines the need for the Palestinian government to take charge of the Gaza

Strip and end the internal division. The EU calls on the new Palestinian government to

work towards genuine and democratic elections for all Palestinians.

The European Union reiterates its call upon the Palestinian leadership to use constructively

its UN status and not to undertake steps which would lead further away from a negotiated

solution.

The EU underlines that the future development of the relations between the EU and both

the Israeli and Palestinian partners will also depend on their engagement towards a lasting

peace based on a two-state solution.

The EU's continued support to Palestinian state-building requires a credible prospect for

the establishment of a viable Palestinian state, based on respect of the rule of law and

human rights.

12091/14

PDF to HTML - Convert PDF files to HTML files

PROVISIO AL VERSIO

10.

22 July 2014

The EU will do all it can to support the achievement of a lasting and just solution to the

conflict. In this regard, the EU reiterates its offer to both parties of a package of European

political, economic and security support and of a Special Privileged Partnership with the

EU in the event of a final peace agreement. The EU is convinced that this support and

partnership, by anchoring both the State of Israel and a future State of Palestine in an ever

closer relationship with Europe, will provide a strategic framework for their stable, secure

and prosperous development."

Iraq

Over lunch, the Council discussed the situation in Iraq.

Already at its June meeting, the Council voiced deep concern about the rapidly deteriorating

security situation in Iraq, strongly condemning the attacks perpetrated by the Islamic State of Iraq

and the Levant (ISIL).

12091/14

PDF to HTML - Convert PDF files to HTML files

PROVISIO AL VERSIO

OTHER ITEMS APPROVED

FOREIG AFFAIRS

Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia

22 July 2014

The Council approved the EU common position for the 11

meeting of the EU-former Yugoslav

Republic of Macedonia Stabilisation and Association Council, to be held in Brussels on 23 July

2014.

EU list of terrorist individuals and entities

The Council endorsed the regular review of the EU list of terrorist persons, groups and entities

subject to specific measures to combat terrorism ("EU terrorist list"). The Council agreed to remove

one person from that list.

Restrictive measures - Iraq

The Council adopted technical changes to the legal acts setting out restrictive measures against Iraq,

which were originally imposed in implementation of UN sanctions.

Restrictive measures - Guinea-Bissau

The Council endorsed preparations for the annual review of the EU restrictive measures directed

against certain persons and entities threatening the peace, security or stability of Guinea-Bissau.

Restrictive measures - Libya

The Council amended the EU restrictive measures imposed in view of the situation in Libya. It

removed one person from the list of those subject to sanctions, considering that there are no longer

grounds for targeting that person.

12091/14

PDF to HTML - Convert PDF files to HTML files

PROVISIO AL VERSIO

Restrictive measures - Syria

22 July 2014

In view of the gravity of the situation in Syria, the Council reinforced EU sanctions against the

Syrian regime. For more details, see

press release.

High Representative's report on the Common Foreign and Security Policy

The Council endorsed the annual report from the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and

Security Policy to the European Parliament. The report sets out the main aspects and basic choices

of the CFSP, including an evaluation of the measures launched in 2013 and their financial

implications for the general budget of the EU. It also looks forward to 2014.

Central African Republic

The Council adopted the following conclusions on the Central African Republic:

"1.

The European Union (EU) continues to be deeply concerned by the crisis in the Central

African Republic (CAR), its heavy humanitarian impact and its effects on neighbouring

countries. The EU strongly condemns the repeated resurgence of violence in different parts

of the country. It remains particularly worried about social dislocation in the CAR and its

impact on reconciliation. The EU calls for the country's territorial integrity to be respected

and reaffirms its commitment to the peaceful coexistence of the different communities and

religions there. It encourages those involved to continue with the interfaith dialogue, the

mediation initiatives, particularly those taken by religious leaders, and the reconciliation

initiatives that are fundamental in order to restore national cohesion.

The EU reaffirms its commitment to the people affected by the humanitarian crisis, both

within the CAR and in neighbouring countries, and calls on the international community to

respond without delay to the challenges presented by this crisis. It is concerned about the

recurrent security incidents and the resulting loss of humanitarian space. It reiterates its

appeal to all parties to respect humanitarian aid workers and allow them safe and

unfettered access to those in need. The EU notes that it, and its Member States, have taken

action to meet the needs of the most vulnerable among the population, through

contributions to the Strategic Response Plan coordinated by the UN Office for the

Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), including the United Nations Common

Humanitarian Fund for the CAR and other humanitarian programmes, totalling 45 % of the

humanitarian relief effort in Central Africa. The EU again stresses that it remains ready to

act to that end.

12091/14

PDF to HTML - Convert PDF files to HTML files

PROVISIO AL VERSIO

22 July 2014

While the security situation has seen some improvement, particularly in Bangui and in the

corridor connecting the capital and Cameroon, it remains tense in other parts of the

country. The EU urges all armed groups to cease all acts of violence against civilians

immediately. It is concerned that the armed groups still have thousands of children among

their ranks, and urges all groups to free them immediately and to stop recruiting and using

children. The ever growing number of sexual attacks and attacks on children is also

particularly alarming. In this context, the EU again underlines that it utterly condemns

violations of human rights and international humanitarian law. It calls on the transitional

authorities to step up the fight against impunity, particularly by restoring the criminal

justice system which the EU is already actively supporting. The EU notes that the

transitional authorities have asked the International Criminal Court to investigate the

crimes coming under its jurisdiction and committed since 1 August 2012.

The Council welcomes the action taken by the EUFOR RCA mission, particularly since it

reached full operational capacity on 15 June, at which point it began to exercise its

mandate fully in the Bangui area. The military bridging operation has been successfully

deployed and maintained, allowing the EU to make a specific contribution to restoring a

safe and secure environment in the capital. The EU undertakes to maintain a sufficient

military presence on the ground until the end of EUFOR RCA's mandate so as to bridge the

gap with the military and police components of MINUSCA, the United Nations

peacekeeping operation in the CAR.

The EU commends the efforts made by the United Nations to bring lasting stability to the

CAR, particularly the work under way to accommodate the forthcoming transfer of

authority from MISCA to the military and police components of MINUSCA on

15 September. It reaffirms its willingness to support MINUSCA in achieving its

multidimensional peacekeeping mandate as set out in United Nations Security Council

Resolution 2149.

The EU commends the consultation among Central African Heads of State that took place

in Malabo on the CAR and the conclusions of the fifth meeting of the International Contact

Group on the CAR, held on 7 July in Addis Ababa. It welcomes the announcement that a

forum for dialogue is to be convened from 21 to 23 July in Brazzaville, enabling all those

involved in the transition, including the transitional authorities, to come together and make

progress towards peace and national reconciliation.

With those goals in mind, the EU urges all stakeholders to engage responsibly and

constructively in the process to help the RCA emerge from the crisis.

12091/14

PDF to HTML - Convert PDF files to HTML files

PROVISIO AL VERSIO

22 July 2014

The EU reiterates its full support for the transitional authorities and counts on their firm

determination to tackle the major challenges facing the country today. It welcomes the

initiative for a national political dialogue launched by the transitional Head of State, Ms

Catherine Samba-Panza, from 10 to 12 June in Bangui and the conclusions adopted on that

occasion. It commends Ms Samba-Panza's efforts to take the transition process forward.

The EU encourages the transitional authorities to bring the entire territory of the CAR back

under government control, to carry out the structural reforms needed for inclusive

economic and social development in the country and to restore the rule of law and respect

for citizens' fundamental rights. In particular, it asks them now to begin the strategic

process of designing a national framework to reform the CAR's internal security forces and

armed forces, in order to establish professional republican forces that reflect the diversity

present in the CAR. The EU stands ready to play its part in the international community's

coordinated and determined support for the CAR authorities in this area when the time

comes.

On elections, the EU welcomes the signing, on 26 June, of the decree on the organisation

and functioning of the National Electoral Authority. It now calls on the transitional

authorities and all those involved to take immediately the political decisions necessary to

start the electoral process, in keeping with the dialogue under the consultation framework.

It is important, in particular, to ensure that the National Electoral Authority is operational

as soon as possible. Besides the financial support already approved, the EU is willing to

continue its involvement in assisting the electoral process in the CAR.

The Council welcomes the European Commission's recent adoption of a substantial

"development" package for the CAR, totalling EUR 119 million, to help re-establish

essential education and healthcare services, stabilise the economy and support the electoral

process; this includes the establishment of the EU's first trust fund, dedicated to the CAR

and jointly founded by France, Germany and the Netherlands. This European fund named

"Bêkou" ("hope" in Sango), has an initial budget of EUR 59 million. Its objective is to

prepare the transition from emergency response to reconstruction, following the approach

of linking relief, rehabilitation and development (LRRD). The trust fund, which was

launched on 15 July in Florence in an official ceremony on the sidelines of an informal

meeting of European development ministers, will provide a means both of contributing to

the stabilisation of the country and its development and of addressing the regional

dimension of the crisis, particularly the issue of refugees in neighbouring countries. This

fund is open to non-EU countries, and the EU invites all its partners, particularly those not

present in CAR, to contribute."

12091/14

PDF to HTML - Convert PDF files to HTML files

PROVISIO AL VERSIO

Great Lakes region

The Council adopted the following conclusions on the Great Lakes region:

"1.

22 July 2014

Recalling its conclusions of 22 July 2013 and 16 December 2013, the European Union

(EU) confirms its commitment to promoting stability and development in the Great Lakes

Region. Determined and concerted efforts will be required to maintain momentum in the

implementation of the Peace Security and Co-operation Framework Agreement for the

Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the Region (the PSC Framework). The EU

commends the work of the Special Envoy of the UN Secretary General, Mary Robinson,

together with the other Envoys on the Great Lakes Region. It calls in particular for greater

involvement by the International Conference of the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR) and the

Southern African Development Community (SADC) alongside the African Union (AU)

and implementation by all parties of the Agreement.

The EU commends the work of UN Special Representative of the Secretary General,

Martin Kobler and the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the DR Congo

(MONUSCO). The EU welcomes security progress following the defeat of the M23 and

the successful joint actions undertaken in the last six months by MONUSCO and the

FARDC, in particular against the armed group ADF-Nalu, recognising the sacrifices made

by Congolese soldiers. The EU welcomes MONUSCO's resolve to better protect civilians

through a more robust and flexible approach. The window of opportunity created by these

developments should not be lost and state authority should be restored as quickly as

possible to regions where armed groups are no longer active. In this regard the EU fully

supports the International Security and Stabilisation Support Strategy (I4S), aimed at

stabilisation activities in these areas. Welcoming the proclamation of the amnesty law, the

EU urges the DRC, in cooperation with Uganda and Rwanda, to accelerate Disarmament,

Demobilisation and Reintegration (DDR) of M23 members paying particular attention to

women and children.

Building on the first steps which have been taken, the EU confirms the importance of

unconditional voluntary disarmament of FDLR forces inside the DRC, and its willingness

to support this process. It is essential that this process should include the FDLR leadership,

should be conducted within the shortest possible timescale, and should include formal

handing over of all vacated territories. The EU recalls that any support to the FDLR is in

contravention of existing UN and EU restrictive measures. The EU continues to believe

that those accused of perpetrating war crimes, crimes against humanity, genocide or gross

violation of human rights including sexual violence and the recruitment and use of

children, must face justice for their crimes. The EU welcomes the statement of the

Government of Rwanda to accept voluntary returnees from the FDLR in the context of the

DDR process. Permanent solutions to the disbanding of armed groups are enhanced by

regional engagement, and in this context the EU supports the joint involvement of SADC

and ICGLR in these processes. In line with the position of the Government of the DRC, the

EU recalls that military operations by FARDC in coordination with MONUSCO against

the FDLR remain an option should the voluntary process prove unsuccessful.

12091/14

PDF to HTML - Convert PDF files to HTML files

PROVISIO AL VERSIO

22 July 2014

Over 40 other armed groups remain active in DRC, especially in Eastern DRC with dire

humanitarian impact on the civilian population and leading to the displacement of 2.6

million people. The EU is particularly concerned by the situation in Province Orientale and

the rapidly deteriorating man-made humanitarian crisis in Katanga. The EU reminds all

parties, of their obligation to ensure protection of civilians and to respect international law,

including human rights and International Humanitarian Law. The severe human rights

violations in DRC, in particular the scourge of gender-based violence, sexual violence, and

the recruitment and use of children whether conducted by armed groups or other actors

must end. It calls on the specific responsibility of the Congolese authorities in this respect

and underlines the importance of concerted action to reform the justice sector, including

military justice, in DRC.

More broadly, it remains vital to address the root causes of violence in the region, taking

into account factors such as lack of state control, significant gender inequalities, land

issues, outstanding reforms in economic governance, the proliferation of small arms and

light weapons, and illegal exploitation of natural resources. In this context the EU supports

all efforts to increase transparency of global mineral supply chains including through the

development of an EU initiative to promote responsible sourcing of minerals from conflict

affected areas and high risks areas. In addressing the root causes, the implementation of the

reform programme pursuant to the PSC Framework Agreement, provides a good

opportunity to gather international support around common objectives. Recognising that

economic cooperation, expanded trade opportunities as well as job creation could help

bring long-term stability and peace to the region, the EU supports the organisation of a

Great Lakes Private Sector Investment Conference under the PSC Framework.

The EU reiterates its commitment to ensuring a coherent approach in its partnerships with

the countries of the Great Lakes, bearing in mind that political developments and elections,

which should respect constitutional provisions, in Burundi, DRC and Rwanda have a direct

impact on longer term stability in the region. The EU reiterates the need for close

cooperation with the UN and regional organisations.

The 2015 elections in Burundi are a crucial opportunity to consolidate recent progress and

contribute to a stronger future. The EU welcomes the adoption by consensus of the

electoral law and the agreement by all parties on a code of conduct, but is increasingly

concerned about the constraints on political space and civil liberties and, as a consequence,

the heightening of tension and violence, especially among youth movements linked to

political parties. EU support, including to the electoral process can only be considered if

the process is inclusive, transparent and peaceful. The EU reiterates its strong support to

the role of the UN in Burundi and for the UN-brokered election roadmap which was signed

by political actors in 2013.

12091/14

PDF to HTML - Convert PDF files to HTML files

PROVISIO AL VERSIO

22 July 2014

The EU recalls its strong interest in the democratic development of DRC and in particular

the upcoming electoral cycle leading to general elections in 2016. The Congolese

authorities are responsible for preparing and organising elections in respect of the relevant

constitutional provisions and which should be fully budgeted, fully inclusive with a clear

calendar, and taking into account the recommendations of the 2011 EU observation

mission. The EU recognises the importance of MONUSCO's good offices role in the

preparation of elections. It further stresses its commitment to supporting all critical reforms

in DRC, notably those in areas such as public financial management, the fight against

corruption and the security sector, the promotion of a better business climate, the

consolidation of the State structure, the respect for the rule of law, the fight against

impunity, the prevention of sexual violence, and the protection of children in armed

conflict. The reform of the Security Sector, and in particular of the army, remains of

paramount importance and should preserve the gains of EUSEC and EUPOL CSDP

missions.

Transparency and accountability to the management of natural resources are key issues for

the Congolese people. In this context, the EU welcomes the full membership of the DRC to

the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI).

The EU welcomes progress made by Rwanda on a number of structural reforms, especially

within the economic sphere and recognises the achievements in reconciliation during the

20 years since the genocide of 1994. However, the EU notes its ongoing concern at

constraints faced by political parties, including the shrinking of the political space and by

reports of disappearances and actions against human rights defenders and civil society.

Looking ahead to the 2017 elections, the EU encourages Rwanda to consistently follow its

commitment for democratisation, to further open up the political space, to give more room

for independent civil society and in particular Human Rights defenders and to allow

greater freedom of expression for civil society and all citizens in order to facilitate fuller

democratic participation.

The EU has aligned its support to the objectives of the PSC Framework. The recent

adoption of the National Indicative Programmes under the 11th European Development

Fund for Burundi, the DRC

and Rwanda, with a total allocation of more than €1.5 billion,

will be complemented by support at regional level and bilateral contributions by EU

Member States. The EU continues to believe that a key to capitalising the potential of the

Great Lakes is for the countries of the region to work together on productive projects of

common interest. The role of civil society, including women's organisations and the need

for greater accountability to citizens are also of fundamental importance in achieving

durable solutions to conflict and instability in the region.

The Council invites the High Representative and the Commission to report on the

implementation of these and earlier Council conclusions, and present follow-up proposals

where appropriate and agrees to revert before the end of this year."

10.

11.

National Indicative Programmes for Burundi and DRC were signed on 26 June 2014.

12091/14

PDF to HTML - Convert PDF files to HTML files

PROVISIO AL VERSIO

EU action plan for Pakistan

22 July 2014

The Council took note of the sixth implementation report for Pakistan, as a follow-up to the plan for

strengthening EU action in Afghanistan and Pakistan adopted in October 2009.

EU action against the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction

The Council endorsed the six-monthly progress report on the implementation of the EU strategy

against the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, covering the first semester of 2014.

COMMO SECURITY A D DEFE CE POLICY

EU advisory mission on civilian security sector reform Ukraine

The Council established the EU advisory mission for civilian security sector reform Ukraine

(EUAM Ukraine), a civilian mission under the EU's Common Security and Defence Policy to assist

Ukraine in the reform of the civilian security sector, including police and the rule of law. For more

details, see

press release.

At the same time, the Council authorised the High Representative to negotiate with Ukraine an

agreement on the status of the EU CSDP mission in Ukraine.

EUCAP Sahel iger

The Council extended the EUCAP Sahel Niger, the EU CSDP mission in Niger, until 15 July 2016.

The mission provides advice and training to support the Nigerien authorities in strengthening their

capacities for combating terrorism and organised crime. For more details, see

press release.

EUCAP estor

The Council extended the mandate of the EU mission on regional maritime capacity building in the

Horn of Africa (EUCAP NESTOR) until 12 December 2016. For more information, see

press

release.

12091/14

PDF to HTML - Convert PDF files to HTML files

PROVISIO AL VERSIO

European Global avigation Satellite System

22 July 2014

The Council adopted a decision on the aspects of the use of the European Global Navigation

Satellite System (GNSS) affecting the security of the European Union. It sets out how the Council

or the High Representative can take the necessary measures in the event of a threat to the operation

of the GNSS or to the security of the European Union or its member states. This decision replaces

the previous legal basis for such action, joint action 2004/552.

European Security and Defence College

The Council allocated a budget of EUR 756 000 to the European Security and Defence College for

the period from 1 August 2014 to 31 December 2015. The mission of the college is to provide

training in the field of the Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) in order to develop and

promote a common understanding of CSDP among civilian and military personnel, and to

disseminate best practice in relation to various CSDP issues.

Implementation of December 2013 European Council conclusions

The Council took note of the High Representative / Head of the European Defence Agency's

progress report on the implementation of the December 2013 European Council conclusions, and

the report to the Council on the European Council tasking on standardisation and certification.

12091/14