On 1 December 1998 the European Commission submitted a proposal concerning the conclusion of a Cooperation Agreement between the European Union and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan (1). This Agreement will among others enhance cooperation in commercial, economic, investment, science and technology, and cultural fields.
In the field of science and technology the proposed Agreement reads as follows:
The Parties [i.e. the European Community and the government of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan], [...], will promote scientific and technological cooperation in areas of common interest, namely through training and joint research programmes, links between research institutions, exchange of information and seminars. The Parties will endeavour to foster the transfer of know-how and exchange of information on research projects especially in the fields of environment, information technology, telecommunications, space technology, biotechnology and marine biology.
In the field of information, culture and education the proposed Agreement reads as follows:
[...], the Parties shall cooperate in the field of information, culture and communications, both to create a better mutual understanding and to strengthen cultural ties between them, including, inter alia, through studies and technical assistance for the preservation of cultural heritage. The Parties also recognise the importance of cooperation in the fields of telecommunications, the Information Society and multimedia applications which contribute to increased economic development and trade.
The Agreement will enter into force after the EU and Pakistan have completed their ratification procedures. It will be concluded for five years and will be automatically renewed on a yearly basis unless one of the parties renounces it.
Created: 22 February 1999
Updated: 22 February 1999