EU is counting on bilateral deals to prove commitment

Date: 26/10/1995

The European Union is counting on the results of its bilateral negotiations with each of the dozen Mediterranean states to demonstrate its commitment to contribute to a zone of solidarity at the conference in Barcelona. But of the 12 Mediterranean states involved, trade accords have only been completed for two.

Tunisia: The EU and Tunis signed an association accord on 17 July which promises Tunisia between 230 and 250 million ecu of financial aid over three years.

Israel: Negotiations were difficult owing to Israeli economics ministers opposing free trade with the EU. The accord was due to be signed on 30 October, but may be delayed until the November meeting of EU foreign ministers. Details remain to be ironed out concerning Israel's participation in EU research and development programmes.

Morocco: An accord has been 'imminent' since the summer, but every day has made negotiations more difficult. Talks are complicated by disagreements over a fishing accord which would allow Spanish fishermen in Morocco's waters.

Turkey: A customs union with the EU, planned for next January, may be delayed by the European Parliament's insistence that Turkey improve its human rights record, even though the European Commission and EU governments feel Turkey has fulfilled the economic conditions necessary for the Union.

Egypt: The third round of negotiations, on 17 October, did not make much progress on easing trade for industrial goods. Industry leaders fear free trade could cost Egypt's industry approximately 15 billion ecu in modernising costs.

Jordan: The kingdom resumed talks with the Commission on 18 October. Negotiations will continue on breaking the tariff barriers barring European goods from Jordan's market.

Lebanon: Technical talks have started, but the Commission has not yet formally asked the Council of Ministers for permission to start negotiations for a trade and cooperation accord.

Syria: The EU and Syria talk of cooperation, but the idea of free trade between them is still far off. For now, the country is trying to edge away from a command economy towards market reform.

Cyprus, Malta: Both islands are due to start EU membership talks some months after next year's Intergovernmental Conference ends.