PROVISIONAL VERSION only items debated 29 November 29. 30.XI./3.XII.2007 Main results of the Council The Council adopted conclusions on: strengthening the internal market for mobile television; ageing well in the information society; the freight transport logistics action plan. 15891/07 (Presse 274) 2 EN

PROVISIONAL VERSION only items debated 29 November 29. 30.XI./3.XII.2007 CONTENTS1 PARTICIPANTS........................................................................................................................... 5 ITEMS DEBATED TELECOMMUNICATIONS .......................................................................................................... 7 EU Regulatory Framework for electronic communications networks and services........................... 7 Internal Market for Mobile TV Council conclusions ..................................................................... 9 Repeal of the GSM Directive ........................................................................................................ 13 Mobile satellite services ................................................................................................................ 14 European e Inclusion .................................................................................................................... 15 - a) Ageing well in the Information Society Council conclusions ......................................................................15 - b) European i2010 initiative on e Inclusion ......................................................................................................18 INTERMODAL QUESTIONS AND NETWORKS ...................................................................... 20 Freight Transport Logistics Action Plan Council conclusions...................................................... 20 Sustainable Development Strategy ................................................................................................ 24 OTHER BUSINESS ..................................................................................................................... 26 OTHER ITEMS APPROVED EXTERNAL RELATIONS - Kosovo EU planning team.............................................................................................................................27 JUSTICE AND HOME AFFAIRS - EU/Ukraine Visa facilitation and readmission agreements..............................................................................27 1 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. 15891/07 (Presse 274) 3 EN

PROVISIONAL VERSION only items debated 29 November 29. 30.XI./3.XII.2007 DEVELOPMENT COOPERATION - Mauritania - Consultations under the ACP EU agreement................................................................................28 - World AIDS Day.............................................................................................................................................28 TRADE POLICY - Anti dumping Interim review on compact fluorescent lamps from China........................................................28 ENVIRONMENT - Convention on Environmental Impact Assessment in a Transboundary Context................................................29 HEALTH - Conference on avian and pandemic influenza...................................................................................................29 STATISTICS - EU programme for 2008 2012 .........................................................................................................................29 APPOINTMENTS - EU's Civil Service Tribunal Call for applications of judges ............................................................................30 15891/07 (Presse 274) 4 EN

PROVISIONAL VERSION only items debated 29 November 29. 30.XI./3.XII.2007 PARTICIPANTS The governments of the Member States and the European Commission were represented as follows: Belgium: Mr Renaat LANDUYT Minister for Mobility Mr Didier SEEUWS Deputy Permanent Representative Bulgaria: Mr Petar Vassilev MUTAFCHIEV Minister for Transport Ms Galina TOSHEVA Deputy Minister for the Economy and Energy Mr Plamen VATCHKOV Chairman of the State Agency for Information Technologies and Communications Czech Republic: Mr Martin IMAN Minister for Industry and Trade Mr Tomás HÜNER Deputy Minister for Industry and Trade, Industry and Energy Section Ms Daniela KOVALCIKOVA Deputy Minister for Transport, Legislation Section Denmark: Ms Carina CHRISTENSEN Minister for Transportation Ms Connie HEDEGAARD Minister for Climate and Energy Germany: Mr Wolfgang TIEFENSEE Federal Minister for Transport, Building and Urban Development Mr Bernd PFAFFENBACH State Secretary, Federal Ministry of Economic Affairs and Technology Mr Joachim WUERMELING State Secretary, Federal Ministry of Economic Affairs and Technology Estonia: Mr Juhan PARTS Minister for Economic Affairs and Communications Ireland: Mr Eamon RYAN Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources Greece: Mr Konstantinos HADJIDAKIS Minister for Transport and Communications Mr Ioannis TZOANNOS Secretary General, Ministry of Mercantile Marine Spain: Mr Francisco ROS PERAN State Secretary for Telecommunications and the Information Society Mr Fernando PALAO Secretary General for Transport, Ministry of Development France: Mr Dominique BUSSEREAU Minister of State with responsibility for Transport Mr Hervé NOVELLI Minister of State with responsibility for Enterprise and Foreign Trade Italy: Mr Alessandro BIANCHI Minister for Transport Mr Mario BUBBICO State Secretary for Economic Development Mr Luigi VIMERCATI State Secretary for Communications Cyprus: Ms Maria MALAHTOU PAMBALLI Minister for Communications and Works Latvia: Mr Ainrs SLESERS Minister for Transport and Communications Mr Kaspars GERHARDS State Secretary, Ministry of Economic Affairs Lithuania: Mr Vytas NAVICKAS Minister for the Economy Mr Alminas MACIULIS State Secretary at the Ministry of Transport and Communications 15891/07 (Presse 274) 5 EN

PROVISIONAL VERSION only items debated 29 November 29. 30.XI./3.XII.2007 Luxembourg: Mr Jeannot KRECKÉ Minister for Economic Affairs and Foreign Trade, Minister for Sport Hungary: Mr János KOKA Minister for Economic Affairs and Transport Malta: Ms Censu GALEA Minister for Competitiveness and Communications Netherlands: Ms Maria van der HOEVEN Minister for Economic Affairs Ms Tineke HUIZINGA HERINGA State Secretary for Transport, Public Works and Water Management Austria: Mr Werner FAYMANN Federal Minister for Transport, Innovation and Technology Mr Martin BARTENSTEIN Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Labour Poland: Mr Waldemar PAWLAK Vice Prime Minister, Minister of Economy Mr Eugeniusz WROBEL Under Secretary of State, Ministry of Infrastructure Portugal: Mr Mário LINO Minister for Public Works, Transport and Communications Mr José MARIANO GAGO Minister for Science, Technology and Higher Education Ms Ana Paula VITORINO State Secretary for Transport Romania: Mr Varujan VOSGANIAN Minister for the Economy and Finance Mr Septimiu BUZASU State Secretary, Ministry of Transport Mr Iuliu WINKLER Minister of Communications and Information Tehnology Slovenia: Mr Radovan ZERJAV Minister for Transport Mr Andrej VIZJAK Minister for the Economy Ms Mojca KUCLER DOLINAR Minister for Higher Education, Science and Technology Slovakia: Mr Milan MOJS State Secretary at the Ministry of Transport, Post and Telecommunications Finland: Ms Anu VEHVILÄINEN Minister for Transport Ms Suvi LINDÉN Minister for Communications Mr Mauri PEKKARINEN Minister for Trade and Industry Sweden: Ms Åsa TORSTENSSON Minister for Communications, Ministry of Enterprise, Energy and Communications United Kingdom: Ms Rosie WINTERTON Minister of State, Department for Transport Mr Stephen TIMMS Minister of State for Competitiveness Mr Malcolm WICKS Minister of State for Energy

Commission: Mr Jacques BARROT Vice President Ms Viviane REDING Member Mr Andris PIEBALGS Member 15891/07 (Presse 274) 6 EN

PROVISIONAL VERSION only items debated 29 November 29. 30.XI./3.XII.2007 ITEMS DEBATED TELECOMMUNICATIONS EU Regulatory Framework for electronic communications networks and services The Commission presented to the Council its proposals on the review of the regulatory framework for electronic communications networks and services.

The Commission's telecoms reform package1, adopted on 13 November 2007, aims to enable citizens, wherever they live and wherever they travel in the EU, to benefit from better and cheaper communication services, whether they use mobile phones, fast broadband Internet connections or cable TV.

The Commission proposals include the following main features: new consumer rights, more consumer choice through more competition, more security in using communication networks, promoting investment into new communication infrastructures, better regulation in telecoms and more independent watchdogs.

The Commission also plans to establish a European regulator, in the form of the European Electronic Communications Market Authority (EECMA), to serve as its main advisor in all European regulatory affairs. It is also proposed that the current European Network and Information Security Agency will eventually be merged into the EECMA. In addition, the Commission proposes to increase its powers through the right to veto some of the national regulators decisions for remedies. 1 It contains the following documents: Report on the outcome of the Review of the EU regulatory framework for electronic communications networks and services and Summary of the 2007 Reform Proposals (15371/07); proposal for a Directive amending Directives 2002/21/EC (framework Directive), 2002/19/EC (access Directive), and 2002/20/EC (authorisation Directive) (15379/07); proposal for a Directive amending Directive 2002/22/EC (universal service Directive), Directive 2002/58/EC (personal data Directive) and Regulation (EC) No 2006/2004 on consumer protection cooperation (15378/07); proposal for a Regulation establishing the European Electronic Communications Market Authority (15408/07), a communication on the use of the spectrum released by the digital switchover (15365/07). 15891/07 (Presse 274) 7 EN

PROVISIONAL VERSION only items debated 29 November 29. 30.XI./3.XII.2007 Moreover, the Commission proposals present functional separation as a possible remedy for the national regulators, i.e. the power to split telecommunications operators that own important parts of the network infrastructure into two companies, in charge of operational business and network management respectively.

Delegations agreed with the objectives of the Commission's proposals. However several Member States expressed their doubts related in particular to the need for a creation of a new European Agency and to the extension of the Commission's competence in terms of regulatory conditions or frequency administration.

The examination of these proposals will start under the Slovenian Presidency. 15891/07 (Presse 274) 8 EN

PROVISIONAL VERSION only items debated 29 November 29. 30.XI./3.XII.2007 Internal Market for Mobile TV - Council conclusions The Council adopted the following conclusions: "THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION, 1.

WELCOMES the 18 July 2007 Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions Strengthening the Internal Market for Mobile TV"1 2.

RECALLS 1.

the 14/15 December 2006 European Council Presidency Conclusions stating in particular that immediate priorities include the development of spectrum allocation models meeting all objectives, the fast promotion of advanced mobile services and to the extent possible a coordinated approach for the use of spectrum capacity becoming available as a result of digital switch over2; 2.

the 1/5 December 2005 Council Conclusions on "Accelerating the transition from analogue to digital broadcasting"3; 3.

the 22 March 2007 Council Resolution on a Strategy for a Secure Information Society in Europe4 acknowledging the importance of adequate network and information security levels from the initiation of the development phase of ground breaking technologies (including Mobile TV) and highlighting that the early adoption of new and promising innovations is highly important for information society development and European competitiveness; 4.

the 6/8 June 2007 Council Conclusions on "i2010 - Annual Information Society Report 2007"5. 1 COM(2007) 409 final (SEC(2007) 980, SEC(2007) 981) 2 Doc. 16879/1/06 REV 1, para. 30. 3 Doc. 14636/1/05 REV 1 (Presse 303) 4 OJ C 68, 24.3.2007, p.1 4. 5 Doc. 9955/07 15891/07 (Presse 274) 9 EN

PROVISIONAL VERSION only items debated 29 November 29. 30.XI./3.XII.2007 3.

UNDERLINES THAT 1.

the emerging EU market of Mobile TV, terrestrial and by satellite, has potential for significant growth, jobs and innovation and could bring significant consumer benefits; start up efforts for Mobile TV are being launched in many Member States and competition is gradually developing; 2.

fostering competition stimulates technological and service innovation and has the potential to create tangible consumer benefits; 3.

there is a variety of standards supporting Mobile TV broadcasting services across Europe; however, DVB H seems to have the potential to become the most common market driven standard in the EU for terrestrial Mobile TV; 4.

a pan European approach could provide extra support to the successful, rapid and widespread deployment of Mobile TV broadcasting services, sustaining the EU competitive edge in Mobile TV broadcasting services and promoting a clearer regulatory framework for new business cases; 5.

this approach could address the facilitating regulatory environment, the fostering of competition, the availability of spectrum in suitable bands and the standards and interoperability issues, taking into account the principle of technological neutrality as well as general interest objectives such as media pluralism and cultural diversity; 6.

Mobile TV and other emerging technologies could create economies of scale through the adoption of a general open standards policy which ensures interoperability. In this context, the timely and market led development of open and interoperable standards, including, if proven necessary, a common Mobile TV standard family, is crucial to reap the full benefits of Mobile TV broadcasting services, whilst the work of the European standardisation bodies in this field should be further encouraged; 7.

the great challenge for European audiovisual content providers is to develop new, attractive formats and content availability for mobile consumption; 8.

the successful introduction and take up of Mobile TV in the EU needs the support and active cooperation of all stakeholders. 15891/07 (Presse 274) 10 EN

PROVISIONAL VERSION only items debated 29 November 29. 30.XI./3.XII.2007 4.

TAKES NOTE OF THE COMMISSION INITIATIVE TO 1.

propose the inclusion of Digital Video Broadcast transmission to handheld terminals (DVB H), as non mandatory standard, in the official list of standards of the EU, in accordance with Article 17(1) of the Framework Directive 2002/21/EC, in order to accelerate the deployment of terrestrial Mobile TV broadcasting services throughout the EU. 5.

INVITES THE COMMISSION TO 1.

acknowledge the importance of innovation, technology neutrality and a market led approach for the successful, long term deployment of Mobile TV broadcasting services; 2.

monitor the implementation of services and standards by industry in the Member States and, if necessary and appropriate, take steps to ensure the interoperability of services and improve freedom of choice for users; 3.

where appropriate and aiming at serving market needs, bring forward proposals for adding Mobile TV standards to the official list of EU standards in accordance with Article 17(1) of the Framework Directive 2002/21/EC; 4.

identify best practices with regard to the authorisation regimes across the EU and promote through appropriate guidance their consistent adoption by the Member States; 5.

co operate with Member States in identifying, within the framework created by the 2006 Regional Radio Communication Conference (RRC 06) conclusions, a strategy on suitable bands which could include the spectrum provision for Mobile TV broadcasting services while taking due account of Member States' right to pursue general interest objectives in conformity with Community law and further examine issues aiming at tackling obstacles with regard to the on line content provision; 6.

without prejudice to existing procedures, monitor the cross border frequency assignment coordination regarding the spectrum for Mobile TV broadcasting services; 7.

encourage continuous dialogue among all relevant stakeholders to promote conditions for Mobile TV uptake. 15891/07 (Presse 274) 11 EN

PROVISIONAL VERSION only items debated 29 November 29. 30.XI./3.XII.2007 6.

INVITES MEMBER STATES TO 1.

set in place a favourable regulatory environment and supporting innovative business models for the provision of Mobile TV broadcasting services; 2.

coordinate with each other in order to exchange authorisation regime best practice and examine the opportunities for the consistent application of authorisation procedures; 3.

facilitate the deployment of Mobile TV broadcasting, including the development of pilot projects, taking into account the need to ensure maximum interoperability, including, if necessary, the promotion of a common standard family in their territory. 4.

make available adequate spectrum for Mobile TV broadcasting, while taking into account spectrum availability and market demand; 5.

deploy Mobile TV while taking into account the need to improve cross border spectrum co ordination. 7.

INVITES ALL STAKEHOLDERS TO 1.

work towards achieving maximum pan European interoperability between different standards and consumer devices; devoting most efforts to reaching consensus around a common open standard; 2.

contribute to the successful Mobile TV uptake in Europe, through sustained dialogue and cooperation, as appropriate." 15891/07 (Presse 274) 12 EN

PROVISIONAL VERSION only items debated 29 November 29. 30.XI./3.XII.2007 Repeal of the GSM Directive The Council reached a general approach (15194/07) on a draft Directive, repealing Directive 87/372/EEC on the frequency bands to be reserved for the coordinated introduction of public pan European cellular digital land based mobile communications in the Community(GSM Directive).

The repeal of the GSM Directive, proposed by the Commission in July 2007 (12273/07), will allow the use of these bands (890 915 MHz and 935 960 MHz) by systems that are capable of offering electronic communications services beyond the GSM. It will in particular make possible to open the currently restricted frequencies to third generation services which allow, for example, video streaming and fast downloads on a mobile handset. The greater range of radio waves in the lower spectrum band in question and their ability to provide better coverage in buildings would enable operators also to achieve much broader third generation coverage, particularly in rural areas.

The Commission' proposal also indicates that the harmonised technical conditions necessary in this context will be defined by a relevant Commission Decision after its adoption. 15891/07 (Presse 274) 13 EN

PROVISIONAL VERSION only items debated 29 November 29. 30.XI./3.XII.2007 Mobile satellite services The Council took note of a progress report (15531/07) on a proposal for a Decision on the selection and authorisation of systems providing mobile satellite services.

The proposal, submitted by the Commission in August 2007 (12413/07), lays down Community procedures for the common selection at EU level of mobile satellite system operators as well as provisions for the coordinated authorisation by national authorities of selected operators to use the radio spectrum for the operation of such systems in the EU. The proposal complements the Commission decision, adopted through comitology in February 2007, that obliged Member States to reserve by 1 July 2007 the 2GHz radio frequency bands for use by systems providing mobile satellite services.

All delegations welcome the Commission's proposal and its general thrust in principle. However, some issues of political and technical nature were identified, which need further discussion, also in the light of the first reading opinion of the EP (expected in April 2008). These issues include, in particular, pan European coverage and comitology. 15891/07 (Presse 274) 14 EN

PROVISIONAL VERSION only items debated 29 November 29. 30.XI./3.XII.2007 European e-Inclusion - a) Ageing well in the Information Society - Council conclusions The Council adopted the following conclusions: "THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION 1.

WELCOMES: the Communication from the Commission on "Ageing Well in the Information Society"; the preparation of the i2010 European initiative on Ambient Assisted Living (AAL) under Article 169 of the EU Treaty. 2.

RECALLS the conclusions of the Lisbon European Council of March 2000 and the objectives of the Lisbon Strategy; the Riga Ministerial Conference on ICT for an Inclusive Society and the Riga Ministerial Declaration of June 2006; the Communication from the Commission on "The demographic future of Europe - from challenge to opportunity" of October 2006; the Council Conclusions of 7 June 2007 on the i2010 Annual Information Society Report 2007. 3.

RECOGNISES THAT: ageing of the population is one of Europe's most pressing challenges, and that this challenge is also becoming a global phenomenon; 15891/07 (Presse 274) 15 EN

PROVISIONAL VERSION only items debated 29 November 29. 30.XI./3.XII.2007 the quality of life of ageing citizens can be substantially improved with appropriate developments of ICT to ageing well in the community, at work and at home, for example through increased social networking, easier access to public and commercial services, enhanced work and daily living environments, and extended productive, independent and autonomous lives; the isolation and loneliness experienced by many elderly citizens can be mitigated by the facilitation of social interaction provided by electronic communications; the use of ICT-based products and services will allow ageing citizens to live longer independently, and will provide opportunities for enhancing their safety, security and healthcare, thus reducing the dependence on institutional care and providing improved human dignity to the elderly; the increasing older population, having grown more accustomed to the use of ICTs and becoming more demanding, is likely to create pressure for the development of a new and enlarged market for innovation, creation and exportation of new products and services within the Community as well as globally; ICT has significant potential to create a triple win by improving the quality of life of citizens, containing the rising costs of care, and enabling new and growing business opportunities for Europe's companies including SMEs ; market barriers and fragmentation, insufficient market development and awareness, high diversity of rules and regulations, limited adoption of inclusive design, insufficient research and innovation, lack of affordable solutions, digital illiteracy and insufficient understanding of users must be overcome for Europe to fully reap the benefits of ICT for ageing well; a comprehensive cross policy approach both at national and at EU levels, including electronic communications and information society, social, employment, public procurement, health and urban policies, is relevant to address the issue effectively. 4.

INVITES THE MEMBER STATES TO: actively contribute to the Action Plan for Ageing Well in the Information Society through appropriate initiatives including the development of national action plans; 15891/07 (Presse 274) 16 EN

PROVISIONAL VERSION only items debated 29 November 29. 30.XI./3.XII.2007 report progress, including on relevant targets of the Riga declaration (notably halving by 2010 internet usage and digital literacy gaps of elderly people and realising web accessibility of public websites), as part of the envisaged reporting on e Inclusion, as part of the envisaged i2010 European e Inclusion Initiative, at the end of 2008; clarify rules and regulations affecting ageing well solutions and cooperate with the Commission in analysing market barriers; take into account the needs of the older age group population as well as the potential it creates for new markets and services when establishing their national research policies and programmes, in particular with a view to the e inclusion of the elderly; stimulate cooperation of all stakeholders at the national and European levels, visibility of existing solutions and exchange of good practices, including demonstrations of the available services and actions in Europe; mobilise and support local and regional authorities, given their important role in the delivery of social and health solutions for elderly people and encourage cooperation and interoperability to increase economies of scale; mobilise financial incentives for research, innovation and market uptake. 5.

INVITES THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION TO: make proposals in 2009 to overcome legal and technical barriers to ICT for ageing well; contribute to mechanisms for the exchange of experiences and good practices; support Member States in giving visibility to existing and available services and actions in this field within the Community; improve e accessibility for elderly persons and disabled persons, including through European standards and legislative action as appropriate; sustain research, innovation and deployment support in European programmes. 15891/07 (Presse 274) 17 EN

PROVISIONAL VERSION only items debated 29 November 29. 30.XI./3.XII.2007 6.

INVITES INDUSTRY TO: establish in 2008 an innovation platform with users on joint research, innovation, and deployment agendas, linking to relevant European Technology Platforms to enable European leadership, in particular by collaborating and developing joint research activities with European research and academic institutions for the development of inclusive ICT products and services; deepen understanding of user requirements, and contribute to a European curriculum on inclusive design by 2008; step up efforts, with authorities, on digital literacy training for elderly people; enable older employees to remain active with ICT. 7.

INVITES OTHER AUTHORITIES AND CIVIL SOCIETY TO: closely cooperate with industry and academic and research institutions on joint research, innovation and deployment agendas; make available information that will increase the understanding of market barriers and improve market transparency; for regional authorities, actively incorporate ICT for ageing well in regional development agendas and participate in relevant Regions for Economic Change networks." - b) European i2010 initiative on e-Inclusion The Commission presented to the Council its November 2007 communication on the European i2010 initiative on e Inclusion.

The communication (14872/07) proposes an European Initiative on e Inclusion comprising: 15891/07 (Presse 274) 18 EN

PROVISIONAL VERSION only items debated 29 November 29. 30.XI./3.XII.2007 an e Inclusion campaign "e Inclusion, be part of it!" to raise awareness and connecting efforts during 2008, to be concluded by a Ministerial Conference, to demonstrate concrete progress and reinforce commitments; a strategic framework for action to implement the Riga Ministerial Declaration1 by: a) enabling the conditions for everyone to take part in the information society by bridging the broadband, accessibility and tackling competence gaps; b) accelerating effective participation of groups at risk of exclusion and improving quality of life; c) integrating e Inclusion actions to maximise lasting impact.

In addition, the Council took note of the information provided by the Presidency on the ministerial debate on e Inclusion, which will take place in Lisbon on 2 and 3 December 2007. The debate will be the first possibility for the Ministers to have an in depth discussion on the Commission's initiative. 1 See: http://ec.europa.eu/information_society/events/ict_riga_2006/doc/declaration_riga.pdf 15891/07 (Presse 274) 19 EN

PROVISIONAL VERSION only items debated 29 November 29. 30.XI./3.XII.2007 INTERMODAL QUESTIONS AND NETWORKS Freight Transport Logistics Action Plan - Council conclusions The Council adopted the following conclusions: "1.

Having regard to The renewed Lisbon Strategy for growth and jobs and the reviewed Sustainable development Strategy; The Council conclusions on energy efficiency and renewable energies to reduce emission of greenhouse gases of March 2007 and the Council conclusions on European energy strategy for transport of June 2007; The Commission Communication on "Freight Transport Logistics in Europe the key to sustainable mobility" and the related Council Conclusions of December 2006; The Commission Communications on the "EU's Freight Transport Agenda: Boosting the efficiency, integration and sustainability of freight transport in Europe"; 2.

Considering that Logistics is a major contributor to European competitiveness with several world players in this field being European; The challenges arising from the continuous growth in freight transport in the EU, in particular the foreseen 50% increase in freight transport by 2020 and its consequences for congestion, accidents, noise, oil dependence, pollution and climate change call for measures at EU level, taking into account measures presented in other relevant international fora; Logistics practices used to organise and manage the movement of goods can lead to more efficient and sustainable freight transport; 15891/07 (Presse 274) 20 EN

PROVISIONAL VERSION only items debated 29 November 29. 30.XI./3.XII.2007 Logistics can be a prime driver to facilitate better integration of transport modes in co modality, including, where appropriate, the achievement of shifts to more environmentally friendly modes. The external dimension needs to be considered when developing actions at EU level with regard to logistics and freight transport taking duly into account the efficient integration of, and the existing bottlenecks with, third countries, and in particular neighbouring countries, into the logistic chains.

THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION 3.

WELCOMES the Commission Communication on the "Freight Transport Logistics Action Plan"; 4.

EMPHASIZES that the development of logistics and freight transport is first and foremost a matter for industry, but authorities have a role to play in creating a positive environment for logistics efficiency, innovation and growth; 5.

WELCOMES the Commission's integrated approach to freight transport based on innovation, logistics quality, simplification, co modality and urban freight mobility in Europe; AGREES that sustainability, efficiency, interoperability and interconnectivity of transport modes should be in focus in this approach together with user requirements. 6.

INVITES the Commission, within the framework of the Lisbon Strategy, to implement the "Freight Transport Logistics Action Plan" in co operation with the Member States, industry and social partners; proposals for action at the Community level should be supported by systematic impact assessments which focus in particular on the effects on international competitiveness, sustainability and administrative burden.

Innovation 7.

STRESSES the role of modern technological innovation, such as e freight and Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS), in improved use of infrastructure and better managing goods and traffic flows, and related procedures; Possible initiatives should be geared towards interoperability as well as common messaging, and identification within an open Information and Communications architecture. The advanced positioning capabilities of the global navigation satellite system GALILEO will enable enhanced logistics services and transport management including tracking and tracing. 15891/07 (Presse 274) 21 EN

PROVISIONAL VERSION only items debated 29 November 29. 30.XI./3.XII.2007 8.

LOOKS FORWARD to the Commission's ITS Action Plan in 2008, and a proposal on e maritime and a roadmap for the implementation of e freight in 2009. REITERATES the importance of efforts in the field of research and development undertaken at European and national level so as to foster new, more efficient and sustainable transport technologies.

Logistics quality 9.

ACKNOWLEDGES efforts to improve logistics quality by EU and industry initiatives, such as the elaboration of non binding quality indicators to boost performance, considering its future incorporation into a code of best practice or a recommendation. 10.

WELCOMES the work undertaken, involving all stakeholders and taking due account of all information gathered previously in identifying major obstacles hindering freight transport logistics from developing faster in Europe; EMPHASISES the need to continue working systematically on these bottlenecks, including those related to third countries, with a view to finding solutions to them. 11.

WELCOMES efforts towards the promotion of training and life long learning by the freight transport logistics sector; LOOKS FORWARD to examining Commission proposals on improving the mutual recognition of comparable qualifications, where these could have a clear added value.

Simplification 12.

ENDORSES the Commission's focus on simplification of administrative procedures, on a pragmatic basis, for the benefit of sustainable multimodal solutions, such as examining the details and added value of creating a single transport document suitable for use on all modes and a single window for submitting administrative information, taking into account safety and security needs, thereby having regard to the relevant international Conventions. 13.

AWAITS the outcome of the consultation and the relevant proposal on the "European Maritime Transport Space without Barriers" in 2008. 14.

RECOGNISES the benefits of standardisation in information flows, technologies for vehicles and other equipment for promoting intermodality. 15891/07 (Presse 274) 22 EN

PROVISIONAL VERSION only items debated 29 November 29. 30.XI./3.XII.2007 Co modal approach 15.

CONSIDERS that the efficiency of intermodal hubs, such as intermodal terminals, ports, airports and marshalling yards, is essential for efficient logistics and multimodality; They should be encouraged to make use of advanced informatics and new loading technologies and cargo handling automation. RECOGNISES that open and non discriminatory access to the intermodal hubs should be ensured. 16.

WELCOMES the work carried out to extend the existing network of Shortsea Promotion Centres to encourage multimodal logistics solutions also in inland transport chains. 17.

WELCOMES the emphasis on "green" corridors advocated by the Commission whereby more environmentally friendly modes of the transport, such as rail, inland waterway transport and short sea shipping on motorways of the sea, could play an increasing role carrying concentrated goods flows between major hubs and where innovative measures could be foreseen to render road transport cleaner. CONSIDERS that these "green" corridors should be reinforced in the TEN T and in the Marco Polo priorities with a view to ensuring consistency of Community financing instruments.

Urban freight mobility 18.

LOOKS FORWARD to working on developing urban mobility for freight and passengers in the contexts of the freight transport logistics Action Plan and the Green Paper on Urban Mobility. 19.

REQUESTS the Commission to regularly review progress of the Action Plan, report to the Council and adjust the priorities and timetables as appropriate." 15891/07 (Presse 274) 23 EN

PROVISIONAL VERSION only items debated 29 November 29. 30.XI./3.XII.2007 Sustainable Development Strategy The Council held a public policy debate on the renewed EU sustainable development strategy, following the adoption by the Commission of the 2007 progress report (14238/07).

In June 2006, the European Council adopted a comprehensive renewed EU Sustainable Development Strategy (SDS) (10917/06) which confirmed the policy guiding principles for sustainable development adopted in 2005 (10255/1/05) as well as the four key objectives to be pursued, namely: environmental protection, social equity and cohesion, economic prosperity and international responsibilities. The renewed SDS includes provisions for implementation, monitoring and follow up.

The debate focused in particular on questions concerning: the progress made in implementing the renewed EU SDS and the obstacles to implementation; future priorities in the development of EU policy.

The Presidency summarised the debate as follows: In general, Member States expressed their support for the renewed EU SDS and broadly agree with the Commission's findings in the progress report. While some successes can be noted, the main challenge lies with an effective and coherent implementation of the strategy at all levels. Furthermore, sustainable development in Europe can only be achieved when a global engagement is taken and sustainability is integrated in all external policies of the EU. Putting transport on a sustainable path remains a challenge, in particular in the light of the growth that is expected for the coming years. The EU must continue to work on policy measures that contribute to climate protection, energy efficiency, road safety, improving air quality and reducing noise emissions, which is important for health, and social inclusion. In particular, greater use should be made of economic instruments that provide the appropriate incentives and disincentives. 15891/07 (Presse 274) 24 EN

PROVISIONAL VERSION only items debated 29 November 29. 30.XI./3.XII.2007 In doing so, each transport mode must make its contribution to reducing the adverse consequences of mobility.

Written contributions by delegations can be found in the addenda to 14583/07.

The progress report was already discussed in the Environment Council of 30 October.

The Presidency will use the outcome of the debates in the Transport and Environment Councils as input for the conclusions of the European Council to be held in Brussels on 13 and 14 December 2007. 15891/07 (Presse 274) 25 EN

PROVISIONAL VERSION only items debated 29 November 29. 30.XI./3.XII.2007 OTHER BUSINESS - The Council took note of the outcome of the following events: World Radiocommunication Conference 2007 (Geneva, 22 October 16 November 2006 (15493/07). Conferences organised during the Portuguese Presidency.

The 4th Ministerial e Government Conference (Lisbon, 19 21 September), 2nd Internet Governance Forum (Rio de Janeiro, 12 15 November 2007) and on the conference entitled Converging regulation regulation convergence, which took place on 28 September in Lisbon (15298/07). Conference on "Radio frequency identification-the Internet of things" (Lisbon, 15 16 November 2007 (14681/07). - Competitiveness Council conclusions on access to scientific publishing The Council took note of the information provided by the Presidency on the conclusions on access to scientific publishing (15362/07), adopted by the Competitiveness Council of 23 November 2007. - 116 numbering range for harmonised numbers for services of social value The Council took note of the information provided by the Commission on 116 numbering range for harmonised services of social value (15302/07). 15891/07 (Presse 274) 26 EN

PROVISIONAL VERSION only items debated 29 November 29. 30.XI./3.XII.2007 OTHER ITEMS APPROVED EXTERNAL RELATIONS Kosovo - EU planning team The Council adopted a joint action amending and extending joint action 2006/304/CFSP on the establishment of an EU Planning Team (EUPT Kosovo) regarding a possible EU crisis management operation in the field of rule of law and possible other areas in Kosovo (14784/1/07).

The joint action extends the EUPT Kosovo mandate until 31 March 2008 and amends it in order to take into account the new guidelines for command and control structure for EU civilian operations in crisis management approved by the Council last June.

In parallel, the EU is also preparing for a possible international civilian office in Kosovo, including an EU special representative component.

JUSTICE AND HOME AFFAIRS EU/Ukraine - Visa facilitation and readmission agreements The Council adopted decisions approving the conclusion of an agreement between the EU and Ukraine on facilitating the issuance of visas to citizens of the EU and Ukraine, as well as an agreement on readmission (15576/07 and 13763/07).

The purpose of the visa agreement is to facilitate, on the basis of reciprocity, the issuance of visas for an intended stay of no more than 90 days per period of 180 days to citizens of the EU and Ukraine. The agreement will not apply to the territory of Denmark, Ireland and the United Kingdom.

The readmission agreement establishes, on the basis of reciprocity, rapid and effective procedures for the identification and return of persons who do not, or who no longer, fulfil the conditions for entry to and stay on the territory of Ukraine or of one of the Member States of the EU, and to facilitate the transit of such persons in a spirit of cooperation. 15891/07 (Presse 274) 27 EN

PROVISIONAL VERSION only items debated 29 November 29. 30.XI./3.XII.2007 DEVELOPMENT COOPERATION Mauritania - Consultations under the ACP-EU agreement The Council approved a draft letter to be co signed by the Commission and sent to the President of Mauritania, with a view to closing the consultations under article 96 of the ACP EU partnership agreement (15352/07).

The letter points out the positive development of the political situation in Mauritania in accordance with the undertakings given by this country as regards respect for democratic principles, human rights, the rule of law and good governance of public affairs.

It also indicates the wish to reinstate bilateral relations within a deep and structured political dialogue.

Following the coup d'état on 3 August 2005, the Council decided to open consultations with Mauritania under article 96 of the Cotonou agreement. The consultations led to the adoption in May 2006 of certain appropriate measures, but cooperation with Mauritania was never suspended (Official Journal of the EU L 187, 8.7.2006, p. 28).

World AIDS Day The Council approved a draft EU statement on "Keeping the promise to stop HIV/AIDS", with a view to releasing it on World AIDS Day on 1 December.

TRADE POLICY Anti-dumping - Interim review on compact fluorescent lamps from China The Council adopted a regulation terminating a partial interim review of the antidumping measures applicable to imports of integrated electronic compact fluorescent lamps (CFL i) originating in China (14886/07). 15891/07 (Presse 274) 28 EN

PROVISIONAL VERSION only items debated 29 November 29. 30.XI./3.XII.2007 ENVIRONMENT Convention on Environmental Impact Assessment in a Transboundary Context The Council adopted a decision approving, on behalf of the European Community, the first and the second amendments to the UN ECE Convention on Environmental Impact Assessment in a Transboundary Context (the Espoo Convention) (14352/07).

The Espoo Convention, which entered into force in 1997, aims at setting out the obligations of Parties to assess the environmental impact of certain activities at an early stage of planning and imposes on Parties the general obligation regarding notification and consultation on all major projects that are likely to have a significant adverse environmental impact across borders.

HEALTH Conference on avian and pandemic influenza The Council approved a draft EU statement to be adopted at the 5th international ministerial conference on avian and pandemic influenza, which will take place in Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi (India) from 4 to 6 December 2007.

STATISTICS EU programme for 2008-2012 The Council adopted a decision establishing a statistical programme for the period 2008 to 2012 aimed at ensuring consistency and comparability of statistical information in the Community (3654/07).

The programme identifies the approaches, the main fields and the objectives of the actions envisaged in respect of the EU's policy priorities.

It will be implemented in accordance with the principles of the European Statistics Code of Practice with a view to producing and disseminating high quality, harmonised Community statistics and ensuring the proper functioning of the European statistical system.

The financial envelope for its implementation for the five year period is set at EUR 274.2 million. 15891/07 (Presse 274) 29 EN

PROVISIONAL VERSION only items debated 29 November 29. 30.XI./3.XII.2007 APPOINTMENTS EU's Civil Service Tribunal - Call for applications of judges The Council approved the publication of a notice of vacancy for the appointment of three judges of the EU's Civil Service Tribunal for the period from October 2008 to September 2012 (15381/07).

15891/07 (Presse 274) 30 EN

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