Activities of Werner SCHULZ

Motion for a resolution
Recital C

C. whereas there is an increasing need for a firm, coherent and comprehensive EU policy towards Russia, supported by all the Member States, with support and assistance backed up by firm and fair criticism, including sanctions and restrictive measures where necessary; whereas a genuine strategic partnership must be based on shared common values;

2014/02/27
Committee: AFET

2013/2149(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital A

A. whereas the European Neighbourhood Policy (ENP), in particular the Eastern Partnership (EaP), aims to extend ~~the values and ideas of the founders of the EU~~, share and promote the values and the principles upon which the EU is founded;

2014/01/09
Committee: AFET

2013/2149(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital C

C. whereas the EaP countries have deeply rooted European aspirations and are still undergoing their difficult transition ~~following decades of impeded growth under the USSR~~towards a democratic system based on the rule of law and the respect of human rights and civil liberties;

2014/01/09
Committee: AFET

2013/2149(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital F

F. whereas the recent developments in the EaP countries and their relations with the EU ~~are a warning~~show that the EU is still not considered as the only political alternative; whereas EaP countries must be free and sovereign to fully exercise their right to determine their future without being subjected to undue external pressure, threats or intimidations;

2014/01/09
Committee: AFET

2013/2149(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital F a (new)

Fa. whereas the Eastern Partnership is in no way aimed at damaging or hampering bilateral relations with the Russian Federation but, on the contrary, is open to develop synergies with Moscow in order to create the most favourable conditions for the sustainable development of the common neighbours;

2014/01/09
Committee: AFET

2013/2149(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital F b (new)

Fb. whereas peace and stability are fundamental elements of the Eastern Partnership; whereas partner countries must abide by these principles and strive for a peaceful solution of existing conflicts; whereas the Russian Federation plays a key role in the resolution of these conflicts;

2014/01/09
Committee: AFET

2013/2149(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 a (new)

1a. Regrets that the outcome of the Vilnius summit did not match the expectations with regard, in particular, to the decision of Ukraine to suspend the preparation of the signing of the Association Agreement and of Armenia to join the Customs Union after having long negotiated the Association Agreement with the EU;

2014/01/09
Committee: AFET

2013/2149(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 a (new)

2a. Takes the view that the possibility of granting a European perspective to EaP countries most committed to deepening relations with the EU and willing to undertake and implement the necessary reforms both at political and economic level should be duly taken into account and proposed as an incentive for further European integration;

2014/01/09
Committee: AFET

2013/2149(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7

7. Underlines the importance of focusing more on the consolidation, the improvement and the efficiency of the energy sector, which is one of the main conditions for modernisation of the economy, and developing energy strategies in line with European Energy Community obligations and EU targets; calls for the continuation of gas and electricity market reforms and an adequate share of energy from renewable resources in line with EU policies;

2014/01/09
Committee: AFET

2013/2149(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11 a (new)

11a. Takes the view that EU's communication strategy still lacks of effectiveness in all Eastern Partnership countries; urges the Commission to step up efforts in communicating the benefits and advantages of the EaP policy to public opinions and ordinary citizens;

2014/01/09
Committee: AFET

2013/2149(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13

13. Stresses that more efforts should go into sharing experiences of democratic reforms and processes rather than simp~~osing~~ly lecturing about EU standards, and acknowledging the uniqueness of individual countries and highlighting the equal status of partners and potential mutual benefits;

2014/01/09
Committee: AFET

2013/2149(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 a (new)

14a. Takes the view that it is in the interest of EaP countries to find ways to soften and overcome eventual obstacles that make incompatible the European Economic Area and the Customs Union; calls, therefore, for a frank and open dialogue with the Russian Federation in order to make all efforts to develop synergies aimed at benefitting EaP countries;

2014/01/09
Committee: AFET

2013/2149(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 b (new)

14b. Takes the view that as regards Ukraine the reform and modernisation process of the country should not be stopped regardless of the signature of the Association Agreement; calls, in this respect, on the EEAS/Commission to identify areas/fields of the association agenda where implementation could already start in the short and medium term;

2014/01/09
Committee: AFET

2013/2149(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 a (new)

15a. Calls on the EEAS/Commission to take into consideration the wish of certain EaP countries not to conclude ambitious association agreements including DCFTA with the EU and to develop different patterns of agreement for those countries;

2014/01/09
Committee: AFET

2013/2149(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16

16. Encourages the development of closer relations between partner countries and the promotion of stability and multilateral confidence building; stresses, in this regard, the importance of developing a genuine multilateral dimension in the Eastern Partnership with a view to improving good-neighbourly relations, enhancing regional cooperation and overcoming bilateral controversies;

2014/01/09
Committee: AFET

2013/2149(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 a (new)

16a. Is of the view the that participation and involvement of both the civil society of the EU and of the partner countries is of significant importance for the advancement of the EaP policy ; stresses that the participation and active contribution of the Eastern Partnership Civil Society Forum at all levels of the multilateral platform is most welcomed and should be further strengthened;

2014/01/09
Committee: AFET

2013/2149(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 b (new)

16b. Takes the view that cooperation between CSOs is a good basis for genuine people to people contact that should not be limited by state borders; recommends a closer cooperation and coordination between the Civil Society Forum of the Eastern Partnership and the EU-Russia one;

2014/01/09
Committee: AFET

2013/2149(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19

19. Highlights the importance of fostering economic cooperation and sustainable development in order to bring the EaP project forward, inter alia by raising awareness of the complexity of economic problems and the challenges and the advantages of the green economy, promoting good governance in the financial sector, adopting a sectoral approach, encouraging legislation conducive to the development of SME sector and promoting business partnerships between the EU and the EaP;

2014/01/09
Committee: AFET

2013/2149(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22

22. Highlights the fact that the European Endowment for Democracy can play an important role in EaP countries by strengthening civil society and promoting the rule of law and the respect for human rights;

2014/01/09
Committee: AFET

2013/2149(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24 a (new)

24a. Reiterates its view that frozen conflicts hamper the full development of the Eastern Partnership; regrets, in this regard, that since the launch of the EaP no progress was made in the resolution of the existing conflicts; calls on the VP/HR to play a more active role making clear that the deepening of bilateral relations is linked to peaceful conflict resolution and the respect for international law; urges the Commission to step up confidence- building programmes in conflict areas with a view to restoring dialogue and facilitating people-to-people exchanges;

2014/01/09
Committee: AFET

2013/2149(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9 a (new)

9 a. Stresses, in this regard, as in the case of Ukraine, the importance for the Council to take immediate actions, including increased diplomatic pressure and the introduction of individual targeted measures and sanctions on travelling, asset and property freeze of officials, legislators and their business sponsors who are responsible for human rights violations and to step up efforts so as to stop money laundering and tax evasion of companies and businesspeople of the country concerned in European banks;

2014/02/12
Committee: AFET

2012/2142(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital C a (new)

Ca. whereas the European Union urged the Russian authorities on many occasions and formats from regular Human Rights consultations up to summit level to conduct thorough independent investigations in that special, well documented case and to put an end the current climate of impunity;

2012/08/30
Committee: AFET

2012/2142(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital C b (new)

Cb. whereas the case of Sergei Magnitsky is only one but the most prominent and well documented case of abuse of powers by the Russian law enforcement authorities, heavily violating the rule of law; whereas a multitude of other juridical cases exist using systematically the pretext of economic crimes and alleged corruption for eliminating business competitors or political rivals;

2012/08/30
Committee: AFET

2012/2142(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital D a (new)

Da. whereas EU sanctions related to the Magnitsky case could urge the Russian authorities to make genuine and fresh efforts in order address more concretely and convincingly the question of the rule of law in Russia and the current impunity climate;

2012/08/30
Committee: AFET

2012/2142(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital D b (new)

Db. whereas several national parliaments of EU member states such as Italy, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, Sweden and Poland have already passed resolutions urging their governments to introduce sanctions on the Magnitsky case while several other parliaments such as Portugal, France, Spain and Latvia are at initial drafting stage for such resolutions;

2012/08/30
Committee: AFET

2012/2142(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point c a (new)

(ca) to raise this issue during bilateral meetings with Russian authorities in a more determined, resolute and result- oriented manner as well as the question of intimidation and impunity regarding cases involving human rights defenders, journalists and lawyers;

2012/08/30
Committee: AFET

2011/2157(INI)

Hélène FLAUTRE, Franziska Katharina BRANTNER, Werner SCHULZ

Motion for a resolution
Citation 7

– having regard to the Joint Declarations of the Prague Eastern Partnership Summit of 7 May 2009 and of the Warsaw Eastern Partnership summit of 29-30 September 2011,

2011/10/11
Committee: AFET

2011/2157(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital A

A. whereas respect for and promotion of democracy and human rights – particularly women’s rights – justice and the rule of law, fundamental freedoms – including freedom of speech, conscience, religion, association and the media –, strengthening of security - including peaceful conflict resolution and good neighbourly relations -, democratic stability, prosperity, the fair distribution of income, wealth and opportunities, the fight against corruption and the promotion of good governance and sustainable development are founding principles and aims of the EU which must constitute common values at the core of the ENP review,

2011/10/11
Committee: AFET

2011/2157(INI)

Hélène FLAUTRE, Franziska Katharina BRANTNER, Werner SCHULZ

Motion for a resolution
Recital B

B. whereas it is in the highest interest of the EU to be economically ambitious and politically focused in its support to democratic transitions learning from the failures and the mistakes of previous policies with regard, in particular, to the complacent approach towards the authoritarian regimes of the Southern neighbourhood,

2011/10/11
Committee: AFET

2011/2157(INI)

Hélène FLAUTRE, Franziska Katharina BRANTNER, Werner SCHULZ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1

1. ~~Strongly w~~Welcomes the Joint Communication of the Commission and the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy on A new response to a changing Neighbourhood and the approach presented therein, in particular regarding the principles of mutual accountability and shared commitment to universal values of human rights, democracy and the rule of law, as well as conditionality ~~and~~, a tailor- made approach towards the partner countries and the principle of further involving societies within the ENP policy;

2011/10/11
Committee: AFET

2011/2157(INI)

Hélène FLAUTRE, Franziska Katharina BRANTNER, Werner SCHULZ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2

2. Insists that differentiation based on performance and achievements should be predicated on clearly defined criteria and assessable benchmarks and calls in this regard on the Commission and the EEAS to consider the benchmarks laid down in the Joint Communication as objectives to be achieved and that, for assessing the progress made, these objectives require more specific, measurable, achievable, time bound benchmarks; Is of the opinion that a result-oriented policy needs a clearer methodology of benchmarking; Stresses that this approach has to be reflected in the structure of the ENP Action Plans and in the relating annual progress reports;

2011/10/11
Committee: AFET

2011/2157(INI)

Franziska Katharina BRANTNER, Hélène FLAUTRE, Werner SCHULZ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4

4. ~~Welcomes~~Takes note of the proposal for a European Endowment for Democracy, which iscould be a timely response to the clamour for democracy by the populations of our neighbouring countries; underlines that it should be based on the principles of transparency and flexibility and should complement already-existing EU Instruments and the exemplary work of longstanding European political or non- political foundations and civil society organisations; stresses that its scope and organisation should be clearly defined and that its structures and procedures should be light and straightforward; calls for a ~~truly~~ political steering committee to be established with the participation of the European Parliament, which should also be involved in the ex-post control mechanisms;

2011/10/11
Committee: AFET

2011/2157(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5

5. Stresses the importance of building a partnership with societies a~~nd,~~s direct reply of Arab spring’s expectations, which must guarantee the active participation of civil society actors in the process of good governance; Insists in this regard on the necessity to set up a civil society monitoring mechanism in order to ensure its systematic participation in the definition and evaluation process of the implementation of agreements and programs; Emphasises that these partnerships with civil society must be inclusive, including in particular representatives of women’s organisations and minority groups; in that context, takes note of the proposal for a Civil Society Facility (CSF) as a way to target resources more effectively and efficiently towards civil society; calls for a greater clarification of the CSF in terms of complementarities with the EIDHR and the ENPI;

2011/10/11
Committee: AFET

2011/2157(INI)

Franziska Katharina BRANTNER, Hélène FLAUTRE, Werner SCHULZ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6

6. Calls on the EEAS and the Commission to provide a clear methodology and detailed benchmarks to assess the democracy and human rights record of these countries and to deliver regular sufficiently detailed reports, which should be the basis for the allocation of funds under the new performance-based approach ‘more for more’; asks for these evaluations to be included in the ENP progress reports and to be presented annually to its Committee on Foreign Affairs; insists on the need to systematically include civil- society organisations at all stages of the review process, for instance through consultation mechanisms similar to those used for accession countries, where local and international civil society are invited to provide written input and share analysis;

2011/10/11
Committee: AFET

2011/2157(INI)

Hélène FLAUTRE, Franziska Katharina BRANTNER, Werner SCHULZ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8

8. Considers that human rights situations should be continuously monitored and ~~that an annual assessment of the situation could~~human rights dialogues conducted with all partner countries and that an annual assessment of the situation as well as the outcomes of the dialogues must be included in the annex toin the annual progress report of each partner country with a clear mechanism to reconsider and progressively limit bilateral cooperation if human rights violations are confirmed;

2011/10/11
Committee: AFET

2011/2157(INI)

Hélène FLAUTRE, Franziska Katharina BRANTNER, Werner SCHULZ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 a (new)

8a. Stresses, in particular, the importance of promoting the rights of the child and ensuring child protection, as enshrined in the Lisbon Treaty;

2011/10/11
Committee: AFET

2011/2157(INI)

Hélène FLAUTRE, Franziska Katharina BRANTNER, Werner SCHULZ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9

9. Stresses that sustainable democracy, functioning and de-bureaucratised institutions and the rule of law not only promote political stability and social welfare but also stimulate economic growth by improving the business environment and attracting investment, allowing new SMEs to emerge and fostering trade, green economy and tourism, all of which generate new jobs and new opportunities;

2011/10/11
Committee: AFET

2011/2157(INI)

Hélène FLAUTRE, Franziska Katharina BRANTNER, Werner SCHULZ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11

11. Strongly supports the promotion of sub-regional cooperation and cross-border projects and stresses the importance of developing partner-to- partner bilateral and multilateral economic cooperation, which would bring tangible benefits for citizens and improve the political climate in the region;

2011/10/11
Committee: AFET

2011/2157(INI)

Hélène FLAUTRE, Franziska Katharina BRANTNER, Werner SCHULZ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13

13. States that differentiation should be applied to trade, invites ENP partner countries to move forward on creating the conditions that will allow the establishment of Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Areas (DCFTAs) and calls on the EU to assist them in their reform efforts and to open its internal market accordingly; underlines that the EU should ~~also~~previously assess the political, social and environmental circumstances of each country with reference to their participation in the future DCFTA; and eventually define gradual steps in its implementation;

2011/10/11
Committee: AFET

2011/2157(INI)

Hélène FLAUTRE, Franziska Katharina BRANTNER, Werner SCHULZ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14

14. Welcomes the reference to Article 49 of the TEU and believes that all partner countries of the Eastern Partnership (EaP) have a legitimate right to strive for EU membership; believes that the conclusion of association agreements does not exclude this perspective but can~~, on the contrary,~~ be an important step towards further European integration;

2011/10/11
Committee: AFET

2011/2157(INI)

Hélène FLAUTRE, Franziska Katharina BRANTNER, Werner SCHULZ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15

15. Reaffirms that, for the Southern partnership, the aim should be mutually beneficial and ambitious trade arrangements which can lead to DCFTAs, which will surely represent the first step towards a big ‘Euro-Mediterranean Economic Space’, which ~~will~~could also help to ~~solv~~alleviate the economic problems of our neighbouring partners in the South;

2011/10/11
Committee: AFET

2011/2157(INI)

Hélène FLAUTRE, Franziska Katharina BRANTNER, Werner SCHULZ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16

16. Stresses that the EU should foster synergies between European external and internal policies, particularly through the approximation of legislation aimed at job creation, poverty reduction, energy efficiency, development of renewable sources and environmental security and improvement of social protection;

2011/10/11
Committee: AFET

2011/2157(INI)

Hélène FLAUTRE, Franziska Katharina BRANTNER, Werner SCHULZ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21

21. Believes that the EU should advance its work on visa facilitation ~~and readmission agreements~~, with a view to moving – once all conditions are met – to a visa-free regime; underlines that the provisions on asylum must be fully in line with international obligations and commitments and EU standards, especially in the human rights field;

2011/10/11
Committee: AFET

2011/2157(INI)

Hélène FLAUTRE, Franziska Katharina BRANTNER, Werner SCHULZ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 a (new)

21a. Calls on the EU Member States to make greater use of the opportunities offered by the EU Visa Code while improving and harmonizing its application in order to guarantee equal and fair conditions for applicants in all Member States;

2011/10/11
Committee: AFET

2011/2157(INI)

Werner SCHULZ, Franziska Katharina BRANTNER, Hélène FLAUTRE

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22

22. Believes that the multilateral dimension of the EaP is a key element for a successful neighbourhood policy and should be further strengthened and developed, including the Civil Society Forum; w~~elcomes the proposal to use the multilateral framework more strategically to advance bilateral relations between the partners and expects concrete measures aimed at putting this proposal into practice~~hose capacity and participation should be reinforced and enhanced, inter alia by a permanent independent secretariat;

2011/10/11
Committee: AFET

2011/2157(INI)

Werner SCHULZ, Franziska Katharina BRANTNER, Hélène FLAUTRE

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 a (new)

22a. Welcomes the proposal to use the multilateral framework more strategically in order to advance bilateral relations between the partners and expects concrete measures aimed at putting this proposal into practice; expects in this regard with high interest the roadmap with objectives, instruments and actions announced by the HR/VP and the Commission by the end of the year;

2011/10/11
Committee: AFET

2011/2157(INI)

Franziska Katharina BRANTNER, Werner SCHULZ, Hélène FLAUTRE

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24

24. Recalls that the EU should get more involved and play a more active, coherent and constructive role in resolution of regional conflicts inter alia via the EEAS by developing more confidence- building measures, considering new pragmatic and innovative approaches, launching public communication strategies, ~~supporting civic culture and community dialogue and~~promoting a European civilian peace corps and local mediation actions, supporting civic culture, people-to-people exchanges and community dialogue, involving civil society organisations, developing cross- border projects, strengthening good- neighbourly relations;

2011/10/11
Committee: AFET

2011/2157(INI)

Hélène FLAUTRE, Franziska Katharina BRANTNER, Werner SCHULZ

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30 a (new)

30a. Regrets that a high percentage of the ENP funds available are spent on consultancy instead of going to projects and programmes and calls, in this respect, for a quick rebalance in the new instrument in their use;

2011/10/11
Committee: AFET

2011/2132(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital D

D. whereas ~~the EU favours~~ a stable and democratic Ukraine that respects the principles of a social market economy, the rule of law, human rights and the protection of minorities and which guarantees fundamental rights~~; whereas~~ is an essential and basic requirement for deepening the relations with the EU; whereas recent developments with regard, in particular, to media freedom, freedom of assembly and an alleged selective use of justice put into question Ukraine'’s efforts to build domestic political stability and augment internal reform areimed at accelerating and facilitating the further development of Ukraine'’s European integration process,

2011/09/23
Committee: AFET

2011/2132(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital D a (new)

Da. whereas before giving its consent to the Association Agreement the European Parliament must take in due account and thoroughly evaluate whether Ukraine has made progress in the fields of democratic reforms, respect of the rule of law and fundamental rights,

2011/09/23
Committee: AFET

2011/2132(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital E

E. whereas the Ukrainian political and state leadership has repeatedly confirmed its commitment to European integration and its long-term ambition to enable Ukraine to become a Member State of the European Union; whereas this goal continues to be supported by all actors on the Ukrainian political stage as well by Ukrainian civil society and public opinion; whereas the increase in cooperation between the Ukraine and Members of the European Parliament, and between the Ukraine and parliaments of the EU Member States, is a commendable example of different political forces working together to advance Ukraine'’s integration with the EU,

2011/09/23
Committee: AFET

2011/2132(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital F

F. whereas Ukraine'’s progress on the path of European integration must be based on a policy of systematic and irreversible reforms in a number of important ‘’institutional, economic and social areas; whereas some important reforms have already been carried out or are being carried out while others are insufficient or lagging behind; whereas the framework provided by the Association Agreement will constitute a crucial modernisation tool for Ukraine and a roadmap to steer its internal domestic reforms,

2011/09/23
Committee: AFET

2011/2132(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital H

H. whereas the Russian Federation is exercising excessive pressure on Ukraine not to establish a DCFTA with the European Union but instead to join a Customs Union with Russia, Belarus and Kazakhstan, countries outside the WTO which still constitute a major export market for Ukrainian products; whereas the DCFTA is a tool for modernisation and its establishment could offers Ukraine financial benefits, the tangibility of which will increase with time, provided that its implementation is subordinated to a thorough evaluation of its social and environmental impact,

2011/09/23
Committee: AFET

2011/2132(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point a

(a) to make all necessary progress in order to achieve the ~~rapid~~ conclusion of an EU- Ukraine Association Agreement ~~by no later th~~as soon as all the requirement and the ~~end of 2011~~conditions are met;

2011/09/23
Committee: AFET

2011/2132(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point b

(b) ~~to strive for the signing of the agreement by the Council during the first half of 2012 and~~ to make all documents relevant to the ratification process available to the European Parliament and to the national parliaments ~~by no later than the end of 2012~~in due time;

2011/09/23
Committee: AFET

2011/2132(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point f a (new)

(fa) to express concern about the deterioration of respect for the rule of law and fundamental freedoms with regard, in particular, to freedom of the media, freedom of assembly and democratic standards;

2011/09/23
Committee: AFET

2011/2132(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point g a (new)

(ga) to assist Ukraine in the process of achieving a comprehensive reform of the judiciary in order to guarantee an independent, fair and impartial legal procedure;

2011/09/23
Committee: AFET

2011/2132(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point g b (new)

(gb) to assist the Ukrainian authorities in the process of reforming the Constitution and the electoral law along the lines proposed by the Venice Commission;

2011/09/23
Committee: AFET

2011/2132(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point h a (new)

(ha) to stress the importance of the implementation of all the rulings of the European Court of Human Rights and draw the attention of the Ukrainian authorities to the high number of cases against Ukraine pending in this court;

2011/09/23
Committee: AFET

2011/2132(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point k a (new)

(ka) to ensure that the Ukrainian authorities fully respect the targets set in the energy efficiency programme for the period 2010-15 by modernising the electric grid and adopting relevant laws with a view to enhancing energy conservation and reducing greenhouse gases emissions; to provide the necessary technical assistance in order to improve radically the energy efficiency of Ukraine’s electricity grid;

2011/09/23
Committee: AFET

2011/2132(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point k b (new)

(kb) to urge the Ukrainian government to step up efforts on climate protection by committing to clear and ambitious targets in line with EU targets and, to this end, to urgently undertake the necessary switch to a sustainable energy economy based on renewable energy sources and energy efficiency while phasing out polluting and dependence-increasing fossil fuels and risky nuclear energy;

2011/09/23
Committee: AFET

2011/2132(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point k c (new)

(kc) to raise the issue of the exploitation of shale gas and the obligations to follow strictly European standards with regard, in particular, to the environmental impact assessment;

2011/09/23
Committee: AFET

2011/2050(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital A

A. whereas the EU's evolving common foreign and security policy should include Russia as a ~~strategic partner~~important partner provided that the fundamental values upon which the Union is based are shared and upheld; whereas Russia is a country whose cultural roots lie in Europe and which is an important global and regional player, with membership in the United Nations Security Council, the G8, the G20 the Council of Europe and OSCE;

2012/09/11
Committee: AFET

2011/2050(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital B

B. whereas the ~~EU and Russia are mutually interdependent, both economically and politically~~economic interdependence of the EU and Russia is constantly growing, and whereas enhanced cooperation and good- neighbourly relations between the EU and Russia are therefore of major importance for the stability, security and prosperity of both Europe and Russia;

2012/09/11
Committee: AFET

2011/2050(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital D

D. whereas these changes, along with the new challenges and opportunities facing the EU-Russia relationship, have to be addressed on both the bilateral and the multilateral level; whereas ~~the basis for a genuine strategic partnership should be~~ an ambitious and comprehensive new Partnership and Cooperation Agreement covering the most important areas of cooperation could provide the basis for a genuine strategic partnership that goes beyond the present critical engagement; whereas the need for building a genuine partnership based on shared common values between the EU and Russian societies should be emphasised;

2012/09/11
Committee: AFET

2011/2050(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital D a (new)

Da. whereas the negotiations on a new agreement have been taking place for more than three years without substantial progress in several priority areas as trade, energy and human rights;

2012/09/11
Committee: AFET

2011/2050(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital E a (new)

Ea. whereas the continuous intimidation, harassment and arrests of the representatives of opposition forces and non-governmental organisations, the recent adoption of a law on the financing of NGOs, on the right of assembly, the law on defamation, the law on internet restrictions as well as the increasing pressure on free and independent media and minorities in sexual orientation and religious belief result in a further degradation of the human rights and democratic principles in Russia;

2012/09/11
Committee: AFET

2011/2050(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital E b (new)

Eb. whereas these new or amended laws have been adopted by a partly illegitimate State Duma whose election were neither free nor fair as stated by the OSCE observation mission and concluded by the European Parliament;

2012/09/11
Committee: AFET

2011/2050(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point a

(a) ensure that the new agreement provides a comprehensive and forward- looking framework for the further development of relations with Russia in upcoming years, and take the necessary action to ensure that the negotiations with Russia continue at a steady paccarry out an in-depth and frank evaluation of the progress that has been made and success that has been achieved in the negotiations up to date, take into consideration, in the light of recent developments in Russia, whether an ambitious agreement is still feasible and desirable or if a re-definition of aims and a re-start of negotiations under new premises should be made;

2012/09/11
Committee: AFET

2011/2050(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point b

(b) actively work on the conclusion of the negotiations for an agreement which ~~will~~could be beneficial for both parties and in line with their increased and ever deepening cooperation; as long as core issues such as democracy and human rights are an integral part of it;

2012/09/11
Committee: AFET

2011/2050(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point d

(d) remain ~~vigilant~~resolute on the requirements that the EU intends to set as regards respect for democratic principles, and consider this respect as an absolute prerequisite for the signature of a EU-Russia Agreement;

2012/09/11
Committee: AFET

2011/2050(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point g

(g) reiterate that modernisation of Russia is a common interest for both parties and that the EU wishes to ~~further promo~~accelerate the process initiated through the Partnership for Modernisation; underline that Russia's policies of ~~economic~~ modernisation cannot be limited to the economic field and should be accompanied by a fully-fledged political reform; deplore, in this regard, the only few efforts and poor progress in the fields of civil society, rule of law, an independent judiciary and the fight against corruption;

2012/09/11
Committee: AFET

2011/2050(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point g a (new)

(ga) take an active stance in coordinating the different bilateral modernisation partnerships of the EU Member States with the Russian Federation ensuring a coherent and more efficient EU policy;

2012/09/11
Committee: AFET

2011/2050(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point h

(h) follow closely Russia's internal evolution, broaden dialogue with ~~Russia's civil society and~~ all major political protagonists~~, support institution building in Russia~~ on a regular basis and actively support Russia's independent civil society, support institution building in Russia and the exchange and networking between Russian NGOs and their European counterparts and the principles of democracy, human rights and the rule of law;

2012/09/11
Committee: AFET

2011/2050(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point j

(j) insist on strengthening the EU-Russia human rights dialogue, so that it becomes an effective and result-oriented tool for advancing human rights in Russia~~; call, in particular, on the Russian authorities to refrain from undue restrictions o~~ and regret once again that so far all the rounds have taken pelace~~ful assembly, ensure protection of human rights defenders, s~~ only in the EU with the refusal of the Russian authorities top i~~mpu~~nvitye for past abuses and for murder of activists, particularly in the North Caucasus, create a climate in which of civil society organisations can operate without fear of harassment or intimidation, and ensure full compliance with the rulings of the European Court of Human Rightsurther involved ministries and to take part in the preparatory meetings with Russian and international NGOs; take into account the possibility to suspend the format if no progress can be reached;

2012/09/11
Committee: AFET

2011/2050(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point j a (new)

(ja) call, in particular, on the Russian authorities to refrain from undue restrictions on peaceful assembly, ensure protection of human rights defenders, stop impunity for past abuses and for murder of activists, particularly in the North Caucasus, create a climate in which of civil society organisations can operate freely without fear of harassment or intimidation, stop the entry into force of the new bill on NGOs and start an in- depth-dialogue with civil society, ensure full compliance with the rulings of the European Court of Human Rights;

2012/09/11
Committee: AFET

2011/2050(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point k

(k) incorporate in the Association Agreement clauses and benchmarks on the protection and promotion of human rights, as enshrined in the Constitution of Russia and drawing to the fullest possible extent on the Council of Europe and OSCE frameworks to which Russia has committed itself with a clear mechanism of suspension in case of violations or non- compliance;

2012/09/11
Committee: AFET

2011/2050(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point l

(l) stress that the Russian society as a whole would be stimulated by, and would benefit from, a political system that ensures a level playing field for all political parties, offering real competition and effective political alternatives and call, in this respect, on Russia to address concretely all the recommendations concerning the last elections made by the OSCE;

2012/09/11
Committee: AFET

2011/2050(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point n

(n) promote ~~strategic~~genuine partnership between the EU and Russia in meeting global challenges, such as, inter alia, non- proliferation, counter-terrorism, the peaceful resolution of conflicts, the security of energy supply, the Arctic dimension, climate change, poverty reduction;

2012/09/11
Committee: AFET

2011/2050(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point p

(p) urge Russia to actively facilitate the peaceful resolution of frozen conflicts and step up the EU-Russia cooperation on ~~the resolution~~crisis management of protracted conflicts in Moldova and South Caucasus, on the basis of international law and peaceful conflict resolution;

2012/09/11
Committee: AFET

2011/2050(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point p a (new)

(pa) call, in this regard, on Russia to withdraw its military forces from Abkhazia and South Ossetia and allow the full and unfettered access of the EU Monitoring Mission to these Georgian territories;

2012/09/11
Committee: AFET

2011/2050(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point q

(q) pursue the efforts for full implementation of common steps towards visa-free short-term travel, with a view of a gradual phasing out of the visa regime between the Schengen countries and Russia; facilitate as much and as quick as possible visa facilitation for academics, students and researchers and harmonize the application of the visa code by the member states on a minimal level regarding requirements;

2012/09/11
Committee: AFET

2011/2050(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point w

(w) encourage Russia to pursue the restructuration of its economy, and accelerate its evolution from a model oriented to and focussed on energy towards an industry- and services-driven model based on efficient use of resources and the use of renewable energies; stress that oil prices are volatile and that current high prices should not be a pretext for postponing the necessary modernisation of the economy;

2012/09/11
Committee: AFET

2011/2050(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point y a (new)

(ya) call on Russia to shut down all Chernobyl- type and first generation nuclear reactors with regard, in particular, to the ones located nearby EU borders and express deep concern at nuclear power plants projects in Kaliningrad Oblast and Sosnovyi Bor; urge Russia, in this regard, to ratify and comply immediately with the UNECE ((Espoo) convention concerning environmental impact assessments in a trans-boundary context;

2012/09/11
Committee: AFET

2011/2050(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point z a (new)

(za) express deep concern at the commercial drilling in the Arctic and widespread pollution around drilling sites all over Russia;

2012/09/11
Committee: AFET

2011/0405(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 3

(3) ~~The Union seeks to promote, develop and consolidate the values of liberty, democracy, respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, principles of equality and the ru~~Article 21 of the Treaty on European Union provides that its external action shall be guided by the same principle which have inspired its own creation: democracy, the rule of law, the universality and indivisibility of human rights and fundamental freedoms, respect for human dignity, the principles of equality, respect for human dignity, the principles of ~~law on which it is founded through dialogue and cooperation with third countries~~equality and solidarity and respect for the principles of the United Nations Charter and international law.

2012/06/15
Committee: AFET

2011/0405(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 4

~~(4) Since it was launched, the European Neighbourhood Policy has significantly strengthened relations with partner countries and brought tangible benefits to both the Union and its partners.~~deleted

2012/06/15
Committee: AFET

2011/0405(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 7

(7) A number of major developments have taken place since the European Neighbourhood Policy was launched and the European Neighbourhood and Partnership Instrument was set up. These include a deepening of the relationship with the partners, the launch of regional initiatives and democin the Neighbourhood has led to a comprehensive Strategic ~~transition processes in the region. This triggered a new European Neighbourhood Policy vision set out in 2011 as a result of a comprehensive Strategic Review of the~~Review of the European Neighbourhood Policy. It outlines key objectives for Union cooperation with Neighbourhood countries and provides for greater support to partners committed to building deep and sustainable democratic societies and undertaking reforms, in line with the ‘'more for more’' and ‘'mutual accountability’' principles. These include a deepening of the relationship with the partners and civil society of the countries involved if the requirements based on the deep democracy approach are met, the launch of regional initiatives and a strong support to democratic transition processes in the region.

2012/06/15
Committee: AFET

2011/0405(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 7 a (new)

(7a) Through a renewed Neighbourhood Policy, the Union will work towards establishing a partnership with societies across the Eastern and Southern countries as too often in the past the Union has privileged relations with those in power over societies. Non- governmental actors and other independent stakeholders are key actors in promoting democratic reforms. This Policy will therefore establish an institutionalised mechanism aimed notably at developing CSOs' ability to monitor reforms and participate in good governance process of public policies and programmes.

2012/06/15
Committee: AFET

2011/0405(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 9

(9) Furthermore, it is important to foster and facilitate cooperation for the common benefit of Union and its partners, notably through pooling of contributions from internal and external instruments of the Union budget, in particular for Cross- Border Cooperation, regional cooperation projects, infrastructure projects of Union interest that will pass through Neighbourhood countries and other areas of cooperation.

2012/06/15
Committee: AFET

2011/0405(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 12

(12) Cross-Border Co-operation ~~will~~should contribute as appropriate to the implementation of existing and future regional cooperation, for example in the Northern Dimension and Black Sea regions, as well as and of macro-regional strategies.

2012/06/15
Committee: AFET

2011/0405(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 14 a (new)

(14a) The European Neighbourhood Instrument funding supports also the implementation of regional cooperation i.a. in the framework of the Northern Dimension and the Black Sea Synergy as well as the external aspects of macro- regional strategies.

2012/06/15
Committee: AFET

2011/0405(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 18

(18) Furthermore, since the objectives of this Regulation, namely to promote deep democracy and "more for more" at the core of the enhanced political cooperation and a rights-based progressive economic integration between the European Union and neighbouring countries, cannot be sufficiently achieved by the Member States and can, by reason of the scale of the action, be better achieved at Union level, the Union may adopt measures, in accordance with the principle of subsidiarity as set out in Article 5 of the Treaty. In accordance with the principle of proportionality, as set out in that Article, this Regulation does not go beyond what is necessary in order to achieve those objectives.

2012/06/15
Committee: AFET

2011/0405(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Recital 21

(21) Gender equality ~~and~~, women empowerment, anti- discrimination, social justice and social inclusion, fight against inequalities as well as environmental sustainability including addressing climate change should be a cross-cutting objective in all actions undertaken under this Regulation.

2012/06/15
Committee: AFET

2011/0405(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1

1. The Union aims to establish an area of prosperity and good neighbourliness involving the ~~European~~ Union and the countries and territories listed in the Annex to this Regulation (hereinafter ‘the partner countries’) by developing a special relationship consistent with Articles 2, 3, 6, 21 of TEU and 8, 9, 10, 11 of TFEU.

2012/06/15
Committee: AFET

2011/0405(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 2

2. Union support under this Regulation shall be used for the benefit of partner countries and the regions involved in the Cross-Border Cooperation. It can also be used for the common benefit of EUthe Union and partner countries.

2012/06/15
Committee: AFET

2011/0405(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 3

3. Union funding may also be used for the purpose of enabling the Russian Federation to participate in Cross-Border Cooperation , for the common benefit of border regions, and in relevant multi-country programmes, to reflect the specific status of the Russian Federation as both a Union neighbour and a strategic partner in the region.

2012/06/15
Committee: AFET

2011/0405(COD)

Hélène FLAUTRE, Werner SCHULZ, Franziska Katharina BRANTNER

Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1

1. Support under this Regulation shall promote the objectives of deep democracy, fight against inequalities and sustainable and inclusive development at the core of the enhanced political cooperation and of the progressive economic integration between the Union and the partner countries and, in particular, the implementation of partnership and cooperation agreements, association agreements or other existing and future agreements, and jointly agreed action plans.

2012/06/15
Committee: AFET

2011/0405(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 2 – point a

(a) promoting the indivisibility of human rights and fundamental freedoms, the rule of law, principles of equality and fight against discrimination in all its forms, gender equality and women empowerment, establishing deep and sustainable democracy, promoting good governance and developing a thriving civil society including social ~~partners~~and civil partners in particular in the field of environment and sustainable development;

2012/06/15
Committee: AFET

2011/0405(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 2 – point b

(b) achieving a rights-based progressive integration into the Union internal market and enhanced sector and cross-sectoral co- operation including through legislative approximation and regulatory convergence towards Union and other relevant international standards, related institution building and investments, notably in interconnections;

2012/06/15
Committee: AFET

2011/0405(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 2 – point b a (new)

(ba) strengthening domestic accountability and establishing an institutionalised consultation and monitoring mechanism with civil society organisations, environmental and social partners and other non-state actors;

2012/06/15
Committee: AFET

2011/0405(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 2 – point c

(c) creating conditions for well managed mobility of people, such as visa facilitation as first step towards visa liberalisation and promotion of people-to- people contacts;

2012/06/15
Committee: AFET

2011/0405(COD)

Hélène FLAUTRE, Werner SCHULZ, Franziska Katharina BRANTNER

Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 2 – point d

(d) ~~sustainable and inclusiv~~inclusive and sustainable development in all aspects, poverty reduction, environmental protection, including through private-sector development; promotion of internal economic, social and territorial cohesion, rural development, climate action and disaster resilience. This Regulation contributes to the objectives of dedicating at least 20 percent of the Union budget to move towards a low carbon and climate resilient society. Actions in these areas, wherever possible, will be mutually supportive in order to reinforce each other's impacts;

2012/06/15
Committee: AFET

2011/0405(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 2 – point e

(e) promoting confidence building and other measures contributing to ~~security~~human and civil security, peace-building and the prevention and settlement of conflicts;

2012/06/15
Committee: AFET

2011/0405(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 3

3. The achievement of these objectives shall be measured using notably the relevant ~~EU periodic~~Union annual progress reports on the implementation of the policy, and for paragraphs 2(a), (d) and (e), the relevant indicators established by international organisations and other relevant bodies; for paragraphs 2(b), (c) and (d) the uptake of the EUnion regulatory framework by the partner countries as relevant; for paragraphs 2(c) and (f), the number of relevant agreements and cooperation actions. The indicators will include, among others, adequately monitored democratic elections, level of corruption, trade flows, indicators enabling measuring internal economic disparities, including employment levelobjectives of deep democracy as developed in the renewed European Neighbourhood Policy must be dully assessed in the overall evaluation of the achievement, among others, adequately monitored democratic elections and free and fair elections, freedom of association, expression and assembly and a free press and media, gender equality, fight against discrimination, the rule of law, an independent judiciary and the right to a fair trial, fighting against corruption, security and law enforcement sector reform and the establishment of democratic control over armed and security forces.

2012/06/15
Committee: AFET

2011/0405(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 2

2. Jointly agreed action plans or other equivalent documents consistent with the objectives of building a sustainable and deep democracy between the partner countries and the Union shall provide the key point of reference for setting the priorities for Union support.

2012/06/15
Committee: AFET

2011/0405(COD)

Hélène FLAUTRE, Franziska Katharina BRANTNER, Werner SCHULZ

Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 3 a (new)

3a. Cooperation with Russian Federation is based on its status as the Union neighbour and strategic partnership. The Northern Dimension policy documents and other relevant documents provide the political framework for regional and Cross-border cooperation with Russia. Black Sea Synergy is based on the Joint Statement of the Ministers of Foreign Affairs of the countries of the European Union and of the wider Black Sea area.

2012/06/15
Committee: AFET

2011/0405(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 1

1. Union support provided under this Regulation to each partner country shall be differentiated in form and amounts according to the partner country's commitment to reforms and its progress in implementing these reforms. Its support shall be adapted in line with progress on democracy, and that it might be reconsidered or reduced. Such differentiation shall reflect the level of ambition of the country's partnership with the Union, its progress in building deep and sustainable democracy, its progress in implementing agreed reform objectives, the country's needs and capacities, and the potential impact of Union support.

2012/06/15
Committee: AFET

2011/0405(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 2

2. Union support under this Regulation shall~~, in principle,~~ be established in partnership with the beneficiaries. The partnership shall, in~~volve as appropriate, national, regional and local authorities, other stakeholders, civil society, soci~~ a transparent and verifiable way and through an institutionalised mechanism, involve the following stakeholders in preparing, implementing, monitoring and evaluating Union support: (i) civil society organisations; (ii) social and environmental partners ~~and~~; (iii) other non-state actors ~~in preparing, implementing and monitoring Union support.~~ . The Commission, and in particular the Union's delegations in partner countries, shall ensure that appropriate steps are taken to set up this mechanism aimed at enhancing the capacities of civil society organisations and other stakeholders to play a meaningful part in that process and to grant an effective domestic accountability over public policies and programmes.

2012/06/15
Committee: AFET

2011/0405(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 3

3. Union support under this Regulation shall in principle be co-financed by the partner and other participating countries through public funds, contributions from the beneficiaries or other sources. The same principle shall be applicable to the cooperation with the Russian Federation, particularly with regard to programmes referred to in points (b) and (c) of Article 6(1) ~~(c)~~. Co-financing requirements may be waived in duly justified cases and when this is necessary to support the development of civil society and non-state actors, without prejudice to compliance with the other conditions set out in the Financial Regulation.

2012/06/15
Committee: AFET

2011/0405(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 1 – point b

(b) multi-country programmes which address challenges common to all or a number of partner countries, ~~and regional and sub-regional cooperation between two or more partner countries, and~~based on priorities of the European Neighbourhood Policy, or regional and sub-regional cooperation which may include cooperation with the Russian Federation;

2012/06/15
Committee: AFET

2011/0405(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 8 – paragraph 1 – point a

(a) for land borders, covering the territorial units corresponding to NUTS level 3 or equivalent along the land borders between Member States and partner countries, and/or the Russian Federation; , without prejudice to potential adjustments needed to ensure the coherence and continuity of cooperation action;

2012/06/15
Committee: AFET

2011/0405(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 8 – paragraph 2

2. In order to ensure the continuation of existing cooperation schemes and in other justified cases, territorial units adjoining to those referred to in paragraph 1 may be allowed to participate in Cross-Border Cooperation. The conditions under which adjacent regions may participate will be laid down in the Joint Operational Programmes. Border regions that belong to countries of the European Economic Area (EEA) and the relevant regions in countries covered by the Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance can also participate in the programmes mentioned in points (a), (b) and (c) of paragraph 1. Participation of the European Economic Area countries in the Cross-Border Cooperation programmes will continue to be based on their own resources.

2012/06/15
Committee: AFET

2011/0405(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 10 – paragraph 12

12. Following the principle of partnership, participating countries and regions shall jointly select actions for Union support that are consistent with the priorities and measures of the joint operational programme.

2012/06/15
Committee: AFET

2011/0405(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 11 – paragraph 4

4. Where eligibility is restricted in accordance with Article 8(7) of the Common Implementing Regulation, the entity referred to in paragraph 1, which may launch calls for proposals and tenders, is entitled in such case to accept as eligible tenderers, applicants and candidates from non eligible countries, or goods from non eligible origin, in accordance with Article 9(3) of the Common Implementing Regulation.deleted

2012/06/15
Committee: AFET

2011/0405(COD)

Proposal for a regulation
Article 17

Without prejudice to the provisions on the suspension of aid in partnership and cooperation agreements and association agreements with partner countries and regions, where a partner country fails to observe the principles of democracy, the rule of law and respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, the Union shall invite the country concerned to hold consultations in view of finding a solution acceptable to both parties, except in cases of special urgency. Where consultation with the country concerned does not lead to a solution acceptable to both parties, or if consultations are refused or in case of special urgency, the Council may take appropriate measures in accordance with Article 215(1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, which may include full or partial suspension of Union support while further reinforcing its support to civil society actors.

2012/06/15
Committee: AFET

2010/2087(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital H a (new)

Ha. whereas the lack of any substantial progress as regards the solution of the unsolved conflicts in the region represents a stumbling block that prevents the Black Sea Strategy from fully developing,

2010/11/17
Committee: AFET

2010/2087(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Recital H b (new)

Hb. whereas the Black Sea region is of geo-strategic importance as regards the energy security of the EU with regard, in particular, to the diversification of energy supplies,

2010/11/17
Committee: AFET

2010/2087(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5

5. Is convinced, therefore, that the success of the strategy depends on the provision of appropriate and identifiable funding; calls for the creation of a specific budget line for the Black Sea Strategy, as well as for devising efficient disbursements methods; encourages prioritising the financing of small-scale development projects; calls on the Commission and regions to promote people-to-people projects in the framework of cross-border cooperation and to provide for and enhance the finance instrument of the Small Project Fund;

2010/11/17
Committee: AFET

2010/2087(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 a (new)

5a. Stresses the need for a project-based approach with a view to including local authorities, business communities, NGOs or other Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in designing, joint ownership and implementation of Black Sea Strategy activities; underlines the importance of monitoring Black Sea activities through the definition of benchmarks or other appropriate indicators;

2010/11/17
Committee: AFET

2010/2087(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7

7. Considers that in order to provide visibility, strategic guidance and high-level coordination, ministerial meetings between the EU and the wider Black Sea region countries should be organised on a regular basis and include all actors in the region; believes that the Strategy for the Black Sea should be developed at all levels of regional cooperation; notes, therefore, the parliamentary cooperation between the EU and the Black Sea countries, ~~welcomes the creation of the Black Sea Civil Society Forum and encourages strengthened cooperation among local authorities, civil society and business;~~

2010/11/17
Committee: AFET

2010/2087(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 a (new)

7a. Welcomes the creation of the Black Sea Civil Society Forum and encourages strengthened cooperation among local authorities, civil society and business; calls on the Commission to provide enhanced support to civil society including supporting CSOs networks; underlines the role of the non- governmental sector to ensure both the effective implementation of Black Sea Strategy activities and the success of confidence-building measures;

2010/11/17
Committee: AFET

2010/2087(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9

9. Stresses the complementarities of the BSS and the Eastern Partnership, and calls on the Commission to make positive use of the differing approaches of the two initiatives and to clarify, at all levels, how the substantial complementarities of the Black Sea Strategy with the EaP is to be achieved; calls on the VP/HR to ensure that the EEAS effectively coordinates the various initiatives and instruments deployed by the EU in the wider Black Sea region;

2010/11/17
Committee: AFET

2010/2087(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 a (new)

12a. Recommends the development of an initiative to alleviate the consequences of conflicts, in order to improve the situation of the population of non-recognised territories and refugees;

2010/11/17
Committee: AFET

2010/2087(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 a (new)

13a. Points out the need to strengthen monitoring and establish advance- warning systems to avoid destabilisation and conflict-escalation; recommends to focus on concrete cases rather than general expressions of concern; asks for the consideration of confidence-building measures such as public disclosure of arms sales and naval military activities;

2010/11/17
Committee: AFET

2010/2087(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14

14. Believes that a security strategy for the Black Sea region should also incorporate the objectives of improving governance, democratic rule and state capabilities; calls on the Commission to mainstream initiatives on institution-building and democratic governance; underlines that the objective of improving governance, rule of law and state structures in the former Soviet states of the region is in itself a security strategy, since total or partial state failure and political stagnation create the conditions for external interference and transnational threats;

2010/11/17
Committee: AFET

2010/2087(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 b (new)

14b. Stresses that the full development of the Black Sea Strategy is directly linked to concrete progress in the peaceful resolution of the frozen conflicts; calls, in this regard, for more direct engagement of the EU in the peace processes with regard, in particular, to enhancing confidence-building measures and assistance programmes with a view to laying down the basis for lasting comprehensive settlements;

2010/11/17
Committee: AFET

2010/2087(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 a (new)

16a. Calls on the Commission to prioritise the requirements of energy efficiency and the protection of the environment and climate when funding infrastructure projects in the Black Sea Region in order to fulfil the international emission reduction targets;

2010/11/17
Committee: AFET

2010/2087(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 b (new)

16b. Calls for more stringent controls on existing drilling platforms in the Black Sea and urges the EU to take the initiative so that all the countries of the region adopt stricter rules for drilling activities;

2010/11/17
Committee: AFET

2010/2087(INI)

Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 a (new)

17a. Expresses its concern at the impact that potentially competing energy infrastructure projects could have on the region and in particular in the Southern corridor; points out, in this regard, that the competition between Nabucco, which is an EU energy priority, and South Stream undermines the coherence and the credibility of the EU energy policy; calls on the Commission to make a thorough and transparent analysis of the sustainability for the region of the completion of the two projects;

2010/11/17
Committee: AFET

2010/2087(INI)