This newsletter consists of a selection of recent press releases that may be of some interest as background to the transatlantic relationship. These include governmental and NGO press releases from Europe and America. If you feel there are areas not covered in this release please do not hesitate to e-mail me on duncan.ritchie@americaneuropeaninstitute.com.

Contents:
White House
US Department of State
US Senate Committee on Foreign Relations
US International Trade Commission
U.S Department of Commerce
Office of the United States Trade Representative
European Commission
E.U Government
        Finland
        France
        Germany
        Italy
        United Kingdom
NGO's
        WTO
        NATO

White House

5 July
President Bush Welcomes President Saakashvili of Georgia to the White House
Both give opening statements and followed by questions in The Oval Office.
Details at: http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2006/07/20060705-4.html

10 July
President Bush Welcomes Slovenian Prime Minister Jan_a to the White House
Both gave Statements in The Oval Office.
Details at: http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2006/07/20060710-2.html

13 July
President Bush Welcomed by Chancellor Merkel in Germany
Short Speeches given in Stralsund Market Square, Stralsund, Germany.
Speeches at: http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2006/07/20060713-2.html

President Bush and German Chancellor Merkel Participate in Press Availability
Press conference held at the Town Hall, Stralsund, Germany.
Details at: http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2006/07/20060713-4.html

15 July
President Bush Meets with Prime Minister Prodi of Italy
A very short press conference held at Cottage Nine, Konstantinovsky Palace Complex, Strelna, Russia.
Details at: http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2006/07/20060715-6.html

16 July
Remarks by President Bush and French President Chirac
A press conference held at Cottage Nine, Konstantinovsky Palace Complex, Strelna, Russia.
Details at: http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2006/07/20060716-1.html

President Bush Meets with British Prime Minister Blair
A short Press conference held at Cottage Nine, Konstantinovsky Palace Complex, Strelna, Russia.
Details : http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2006/07/20060716.html

27 July
President Bush Welcomes President Basescu of Romania to the White House
Both give a short speech followed by a Q & A session held in the Oval Office.
Details at: http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2006/07/20060727-5.html

28 July
President Bush and Prime Minister Blair of the United Kingdom Participate in Press Availability
Press conference given in The East Room of the White House.
Details at: http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2006/07/20060728-1.html

10 August
President Bush Discusses Terror Plot Upon Arrival in Wisconsin
A brief statement by President Bush given at Austin Straubel International Airport, Green Bay, Wisconsin.
Full statement at: http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2006/08/20060810-3.html

14 August
President Discusses Foreign Policy During Visit to State Department
A statement followed by a Q & A session given at The State Department, Washington, D.C.
Full Details at: http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2006/08/20060814-3.html

US DEPARTMENT OF STATE

3 July
Interview in Advance of Turkish Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul's Visit to the U.S.
Daniel Fried, Assistant Secretary for European and Eurasian Affairs interview with Ali H. Aslan from the Turkish newspaper Zaman.
Full interview at: http://www.state.gov/p/eur/rls/rm/68559.htm

5 July
Shared Vision and Structured Dialogue to Advance the Turkish-American Strategic Partnership
Media Note by the Office of the Spokesman, Washington, DC.
Details at: http://www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/ps/2006/68574.htm

Remarks with Deputy Prime Minister Abdullah Gul after Their Meeting
A short statement by Secretary Rice and Deputy Gul followed by a Q & A session in the Benjamin Franklin Room Washington, DC.
Further Details at: http://www.state.gov/secretary/rm/2006/68577.htm

6 July
U.S.-Turkey Relations
Daniel Fried, Assistant Secretary for European and Eurasian Affairs interview with Yasemin Congar, CNN Turk.
Interview at: http://www.state.gov/p/eur/rls/rm/68757.htm

10 July
Press Briefing by National Security Advisor Steve Hadley on the President's Trip to Russia and Germany
Briefing by the National Security Advisor Steve Hadley in the James S. Brady Briefing Room, Washington, DC.
Full briefing at: http://www.state.gov/e/eb/rls/rm/2006/68815.htm

Sharing a Vision of Peace, Justice, and Democracy for the World
Remarks by Secretary Rice and British Foreign Secretary Margaret Beckett following bilateral meeting held in Washington, DC.
http://www.state.gov/secretary/rm/2006/68803.htm

11 July
Compensation and Restitution for Victims of the Holocaust
Remarks by Ambassador Edward B. O'Donnell, Special Envoy for Holocaust Issues at the Claims Conference Board of Directors held at the Museum of Jewish Heritage, New York, New York.
Full speech at: http://www.state.gov/p/eur/rls/rm/69488.htm

12 July
P5 + 1 Statement: Negotiations With Iran
Press Statement by Foreign Minister of France Philippe Douste-Blazy, on behalf of the Foreign Ministers of China, France, Germany, the Russian Federation, the United Kingdom, the United States of America and the High Representative of the European Union.
Full statement at: http://www.state.gov/p/eur/rls/or/68910.htm

18 July
Diversity Visa Lottery 2007 (DV-2007) Results
The diversity lottery was conducted under the terms of section 203(c) of the Immigration and Nationality Act and makes available 50,000 permanent resident visas annually to persons from countries with low rates of immigration to the United States.
Full Details include how many from Europe at: http://www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/ps/2006/69146.htm

The U.S.-Cyprus Relationship
Remarks at Press Conference by Matthew Bryza, Deputy Assistant Secretary for European and Eurasian Affairs in Nicosia, Cyprus.
Full Press Conference at: http://www.state.gov/p/eur/rls/rm/69238.htm

21 July
Readout from Recent Trip to Turkey, Greece and Cyprus
Press briefing given by Matthew Bryza, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs in the Foreign Press Center, Washington, DC.
Full briefing at: http://fpc.state.gov/fpc/69336.htm

26 July
Remarks with Italian Foreign Minister Massimo D'Alema, UN Secretary General Kofi Annan, and Lebanese Prime Minister Fuad Siniora
Press conference given by Secretary Condoleezza Rice after a meeting in Rome with representatives of Italy and United States, United Nations, Canada, Cyprus, Egypt, France, Germany, Greece, Jordan, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Spain, Turkey, the United Kingdom, European Union and the World Bank and Lebanon.
Full press conference at: http://www.state.gov/secretary/rm/2006/69546.htm

1 August
Ask the Ambassador - On-the-Ground Relief Effort in Cyprus
Ronald Schlicher, U.S. Ambassador to Cyprus, answered questions about the on-the-ground relief effort in Cyprus.
Transcript at: http://www.state.gov/r/pa/ei/ask/69771.htm

7 August
President Bush and Secretary Rice Discuss the Middle East Crisis
Secretary Condoleezza Rice and President Bush give a press conference at the Prairie Chapel Ranch, Crawford, Texas.
Full conference at: http://www.state.gov/secretary/rm/2006/70046.htm

14 August
Turkey: 22nd Anniversary of PKK Violence
A short Press Statement by Sean McCormack.
Statement at: http://www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/ps/2006/70550.htm

Department of State Begins Issuing Electronic Passports to the Public
To enhance border security and to facilitate travel, the Department of State has begun to issue Electronic Passports (e-passports) to the public.
Details at: http://www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/ps/2006/70433.htm

15 August
U.S. Establishes Diplomatic Relations with Montenegro
A Press Statement by Sean McCormack, Washington, DC.
Statement at: http://www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/ps/2006/70693.htm

28 August
Turkey: Special Envoy for Countering the PKK
General Joseph W. Ralston (USAF, retired) appointed as Special Envoy for Countering the PKK.
Further information at: http://www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/ps/2006/71563.htm

US Senate Committee on Foreign Relations

18 July
Islam and the West: Searching for Common Ground
Hearing before the Committee On Foreign Relations in the United States Senate.
Further information at: http://foreign.senate.gov/hearings/2006/hrg060718a.html

21 July
US-UK Extradition Treaty
Hearing before the Committee On Foreign Relations in the United States Senate.
Further information at: http://foreign.senate.gov/hearings/2006/hrg060719p.html

The U.S. International Trade Commission

19 July
ITC Staff Research Study Explores Trends in U.S. Inbound and Outbound Direct Investment
The United States was both the largest source and largest destination of foreign direct investment (FDI) in the world during 1999-2004, according to a new staff research study by the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) Office of Industries.
Full Details at: http://www.usitc.gov/ext_relations/news_release/2006/er0719dd1.htm

Evolving Global Market Poses Challenges for U.S. Fresh Orange and Lemon Producers, says ITC
The global market for fresh oranges and lemons has becomes increasingly more competitive, reports the ITC in its publication Conditions of Competition for Certain Oranges and Lemons in the U.S. Fresh Market.
Full Details at: http://www.usitc.gov/ext_relations/news_release/2006/er0719dd2.htm

3 August
ITC Makes Determinations in Five-Year (Sunset) Reviews Concerning Certain Bearings From China, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Singapore, And The United Kingdom
The ITC announced its determinations in its five-year (sunset) reviews concerning the existing antidumping duty orders on certain bearings from China, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Singapore, and the United Kingdom.
Further information at: http://www.usitc.gov/ext_relations/news_release/2006/er0803dd1.htm

8 August
ITC Releases Shifts in U.S. Merchandise trade 2005
Shifts in U.S. Merchandise Trade 2005, an annual compendium of data and analysis examining changes in trade with key U.S. partners and in crucial U.S. industries is released.
Further information: http://www.usitc.gov/ext_relations/news_release/2006/er0808dd1.htm

24 August
ITC Institutes Section 337 Investigation on Certain Nickel Metal Hydride Consumer Batteries, Components Thereof, and Consumer Electronic Products Containing the Same
The ITC has voted to institute an investigation of certain nickel metal hydride consumer batteries, components thereof, and consumer electronic products containing the same. The products at issue in this investigation are light weight rechargeable batteries that are used in a variety of products.
Further Details at: http://www.usitc.gov/ext_relations/news_release/2006/er0824dd1.htm

31 August
ITC Institutes Section 337 Investigation on Certain Wireless Communication Devices, Components Thereof, and Products Containing the Same
The ITC has voted to institute an investigation of certain wireless communication devices, components thereof, and products containing the same. The products at issue in this investigation include, inter alia, cellular telephone handsets and components.
Full Details at: http://www.usitc.gov/ext_relations/news_release/2006/er0831dd4.htm

International Trade Administration

20 July
International Visitation to U.S. up 22 Percent in April
The U.S. Department of Commerce announced that 3.9 million international visitors travelled to the United States in April 2006, an increase of 22 percent over April 2005.
Further information at: http://trade.gov/press/press_releases/2006/tourism_072006.asp

25 July
Steel Imports for June 2006 Decreased 14 Percent from May 2006
Newly released preliminary government figures covering steel imports for the month of June 2006 show that steel imports decreased 14 percent from May 2006 levels.
Further Details at: http://trade.gov/press/press_releases/2006/steel_072506.asp

29 August
Steel Imports for July
2006 Decreased 14 Percent from June 2006
Newly released preliminary government figures covering steel imports for the month of July
2006 show that steel imports increased 14 percent from June 2006 levels.
Details at: http://trade.gov/press/press_releases/2006/steel_082906.asp

Office of the US Trade Representative

25 July
Statement by Office of the US Trade Representative
A statement on the Doha Round.
Details at: http://www.ustr.gov/Document_Library/Press_Releases/2006/July/Statement_by_Office_of_the_US_Trade_Representative.html

European Commission

4 July
Mergers: Commission approves proposed acquisition of Carlson Wagonlit by CCI and OEP
The European Commission has approved under the EU Merger Regulation the proposed acquisition of joint control of Carlson Wagonlit, a company active in the travel agency services sector, by the US companies Carlson and One Equity Partners, a subsidiary of JP Morgan Company.
Further information at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/06/920&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

6 July
MEMO/06/269 - Commission Activities in the Fight against Terrorism
A useful summary of of the Commissions activities in fight against Terrorism inc. legislation, decisions and reports.
Full Details at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=MEMO/06/269&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

Education: unlocking the Middle East's potential
A speech by Benita Ferrero-Waldner, European Commissioner for External Relations and European Neighbourhood Policy at the Lebanese American University, Byblos.
Full speech at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=SPEECH/06/445&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

7 July
Opening Speech on Climate Change
A speech given by Stavros Dimas, Commissioner responsible for the Environment at the G8 + 5 Legislator's Forum in the European Parliament, Brussels.
Full speech at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=SPEECH/06/444&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

Middle East: Commission allocates €34 million in humanitarian aid to vulnerable Palestinian populations in the West Bank and Gaza and in Lebanon
The European Commission allocated €34 million in humanitarian aid for vulnerable Palestinian populations in the West Bank, Gaza and Lebanon.
Further information at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/06/959&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

11 July
President Barroso calls on G8 to lay the foundations for a stable energy future and makes new aid proposal for Africa
European Commission President Barroso called on G8 leaders to go the extra mile to agree a common set of energy security principles to lay the foundations for a stable energy future.
Further information at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/06/970&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

12 July
Press conference on imposing penalty payments on Microsoft
Introductory remarks by Neelie Kroes, European Commissioner for Competition Policy in the European Commission, Brussels.
Short speech at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=SPEECH/06/452&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

Competition: Commission imposes penalty payment of €280.5 million on Microsoft for continued non-compliance with March 2004 Decision
The European Commission has imposed a penalty payment of €280.5 million on Microsoft for its continued non-compliance with some of its obligations under the Commission's March 2004 Decision.
Full Details at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/06/979&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

The euro: a currency in search of a deeper market, enhanced economic reform and a stronger voice on the world stage
The Commission has adopted the first Annual Statement on the Euro Area which calls on Member States to step up efforts to increase the growth potential and deliver more jobs to bring the number of unemployed down more rapidly.
Further information at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/06/976&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

18 July
EU25 FDI flows with the rest of the world up by 20% in 2005
In 2005, the EU25 invested 26 bn euro in the USA, compared with 7 bn in 2004. The USA invested 18 bn in the EU25 in 2005, 15 bn in 2004.
Full statistics at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=STAT/06/97&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

Cooperation agreement with the USA on modernising air traffic management
Vice-President Jacques Barrot, the Commissioner responsible for transport, and Marion C. Blakey of the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), recently signed a co-operation agreement that will ensure co-ordination between their respective programmes for the modernisation of air traffic control.
Further information at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/06/1009&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

CES/EESC and Turkish organised civil society organisations shadow accession negotiations
Many important issues were discussed at the 21st meeting of the EU-Turkey joint consultative committee (JCC) in Kayseri, Turkey, on 13 and 14 July 2006.
Full Details at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=CES/06/76&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

19 July
Community code on short-stay visas
The European Commission adopted a proposal for a Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing a Community Code on Visas.
Further information at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=MEMO/06/298&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

Mergers: Commission approves proposed acquisition of J.M. Huber's on-site paper coating mineral business by Omya, subject to conditions
The European Commission has approved under the EU Merger Regulation the proposed acquisition by Swiss-based Omya of US-based J. M. Huber's on-site precipitated calcium carbonate ("PCC") business, subject to conditions.
Further information: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/06/1017&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

20 July
Commission bans 22 hair dye substances to increase consumer safety
In order to ensure safety of hair dye products for consumers the European Commission has banned 22 hair dye substances which industry has not submitted any safety files at all.
Further information: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/06/1047&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

Lebanon: European Commission launches aid decision for €10 million and urges all parties to respect humanitarian law
The European Commission launched an emergency decision for €10 million to provide humanitarian aid for victims of the conflict in Lebanon.
Further Details: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/06/1049&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

26 July
€11 million to evacuate citizens of developing countries from Lebanon
The Commission has allocated €11 million to help around 10,000 citizens from developing countries return home from Lebanon.
Further Details : http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/06/1063&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

Humanitarian aid for Lebanon: European Commission commits another €10 million and plans overall package of €50 million
The European Commission has mobilised a further tranche of emergency humanitarian funding to help victims of the conflict.
Further Details: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/06/1064&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

28 July
Commission proposes new legislation on food additives, flavourings and enzymes
The European Commission has adopted a package of legislative proposals which would introduce harmonised EU legislation on food enzymes for the first time and upgrade current rules for flavourings and additives.
Further information at http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/06/1074&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

Mergers: Commission authorises Smithfield's proposed acquisition of European processed meat products business of Sara Lee Corporation
The European Commission has cleared under the EU Merger Regulation the proposed acquisition of the Dutch company Sara Lee Foods Europe by a joint venture created by the US-based companies Smithfield Foods Inc. and Oaktree Capital Management LLC.
Further information at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/06/1076&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

3 August
Accounting: Commissioner McCreevy welcomes CESR-SEC Work Plan for cooperation between EU and US regulators on enforcement of IFRS
Charlie McCreevy, European Commissioner for Internal Market and Services, has welcomed the publication of a Work Plan between the Committee of European Securities Regulators and the United States Securities Exchange Commission outlining concrete measures to facilitate transatlantic financial activity within a sound and protective framework.
Details at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/06/1085&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

Financing of aviation and maritime security measures: the Commission takes stock
The European Commission has adopted a report on the financing of security measures in the aviation and maritime sectors. It concludes that more transparency of security taxes and charges would benefit the users of transport services and that, in general, public funding of anti-terrorist measures in transport does not constitute state aid. Further
Details at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/06/1086&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

8 August
MEMO/06/306 - EU response to the conflict in Lebanon
A summary of the European Commission and EU countries response to the growing crises in Lebanon.
Details at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=MEMO/06/306&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

16 August
Louis Michel: "Humanitarian crisis in Lebanon continues"
A brief statement on the state of Lebanon given in Brussels
Statement at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/06/1103&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

18 August
Mergers: Commission clears takeover of Aviall by Boeing
The European Commission has cleared under the EU Merger Regulation the planned acquisition of the US aerospace spare parts distributor Aviall Inc. by the US aircraft manufacturer the Boeing Company (Boeing).
Full Details at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/06/1111&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

23 August
Questions and Answers on the finding of unauthorised GM rice on the US market
The US authorities informed the European Commission in the evening of 18 August
2006 that trace amounts of non-authorised genetically modified rice had been detected in samples of commercial long grain rice on the US market.
Full Details at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=MEMO/06/310&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

European companies set to increase their R&D investment over the next three years, Commission survey shows
A recent survey of European companies about their R&D investment shows that these companies expect their global investments in R&D to grow by roughly 5% a year over the next three years.
Further information at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/06/1118&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

Commission requires certification of US rice exports to stop unauthorised GMO entering the EU
The European Commission adopted a decision requiring imports of long grain rice from the USA to be certified as free from the unauthorised GMO LL Rice 601.
Full Details at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/06/1120&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

25 August
Unauthorised GM rice: Member States back certification requirement for US imports
Measures put in place by the European Commission, in response to the presence of an unauthorised GMO in rice on the US market, has been endorsed by the Standing Committee on the Food Chain and Animal Health.
Full Details at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/06/1126&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

28 August
Mergers: Commission authorises proposed take-over by Thule over CHAAS Holdings, Advanced Accessory Systems and Valley Industries
The European Commission has cleared under the EU Merger Regulation the proposed acquisition by the Swedish Thule of (i) the Dutch CHAAS Holdings BV, (ii) the US Advanced Accessory Systems LLC and (iii) Valley Industries Inc, all companies active in the utility transportation and car accessory industry.
Further Details at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/06/1130&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

EU Government

Finland

12 July
Foreign Minister Tuomioja presents the objectives of Finland's EU Presidency to the European Parliament Committee on Foreign Affairs
Foreign Minister Erkki Tuomioja presented the foreign policy priorities of Finland's EU Presidency to the Committee on Foreign Affairs of the European Parliament in Brussels. Further
Details at: http://formin.finland.fi/public/default.aspx?contentid=71236&nodeid=15145&contentlan=2&culture=en-US

24 July
"Neither industrial countries nor developing countries win upon suspension of WTO Doha negotiations", saysMinister for Foreign Trade and Development Paula Lehtomäki
Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Paula Lehtomäki regreted that no consensus on the continuation of the WTO Doha negotiations was reached between relevant negotiating partners.
Further information at: http://formin.finland.fi/public/default.aspx?contentid=71809&nodeid=15145&contentlan=2&culture=en-US

1 August
Declaration by the Presidency on behalf of the European Union on the International Compact with Iraq
The European Union welcomed the launching of the International Compact with Iraq by the Government of Iraq and the United Nations in New York on 27 July
2006, and underlines its readiness to participate actively and constructively in the preparatory and follow-up processes. Further
Details at: http://formin.finland.fi/public/default.aspx?contentid=73329&nodeid=15146&contentlan=2&culture=en-US

12 August
EU Presidency statement on Lebanon
The Presidency of the European Union welcomed the United Nations Security Council's unanimous approval of Resolution 1701 that calls for a
Full cessation of hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah. This resolution sets the required framework for a political settlement that only can bring a lasting solution to the crisis.
Details at: http://formin.finland.fi/public/default.aspx?contentid=75785&nodeid=15146&contentlan=2&culture=en-US

28 August
Publication of a book entitled The Northern Dimension by the Europe Information Unit of the Ministry for Foreign Affairs
Markku Heikkilä's book entitled The Northern Dimension highlighting the objective of the Northern Dimension within the policies of the EU is to draw attention to northern Europe and especially to the development of co-operation with Northwest Russia.
Full Details at: http://formin.finland.fi/public/default.aspx?contentid=78210&nodeid=15146&contentlan=2&culture=en-US

France

13 July
Moving toward a co-operative future at the G-8 summit
A speech given by Jacques Chirac, President of the Republic of France in Paris.
Full speech at: http://www.info-france-usa.org/news/statmnts/2006/g8__summit_chirac_speech071306.asp

16 July
Remarks made by Jacques Chirac, President of the Republic, at his bilateral meeting with Mr George W. Bush, President of the United States of America
A short note of Mr Chirac's remarks given in St Petersburg.
Text at: http://www.info-france-usa.org/news/statmnts/2006/g8__summit_chirac_bush_remarks071606.asp

25 August
Franco-German relations
Excerpts of statements made by M.Jacques Chirac, President of the Republic, during his joint press conference with Mrs Angela Merkel, Chancellor of Germany in Paris.
Statements at: http://www.info-france-usa.org/news/statmnts/2006/franco_german_chirac_merkel082506.asp

Germany

5 July
German astronaut on space shuttle mission
When the US space shuttle "Discovery" lifted off the launch pad at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Florida a German astronaut Thomas Reiter was among the crew members on board.
Further information at: http://www.bundesregierung.de/nn_6562/Content/EN/Artikel/2006/07/2006-07-05-luftwaffenpilot-thomas-reiter-im-all.html

13 July
Meeting in Stralsund is highlight of this year's Transatlantic Outreach Program (TOP)
Further information at: http://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/diplo/en/Infoservice/Presse/Meldungen/2006/060713-Outreach.html

Welcome, Mr. President!
Chancellor Angela Merkel and President George W. Bush held talks in Stralsund, Germany, just ahead of the G8 summit in St. Petersburg, Russia. They discussed the situation in Iraq, the Middle East, and Afghanistan, as well as the dispute with Iran over uranium enrichment activities.
Further information at: http://www.bundesregierung.de/nn_6562/Content/EN/Artikel/2006/07/2006-07-13-bush-stralsund__en.html

Bearing joint responsibility in the world
Chancellor Angela Merkel and President George W. Bush expressed their commitment to continue working together to resolve international conflicts. They emphasised the need to dissuade Iran from having a nuclear weapons program. They also expressed their concern at the escalating situation in the Middle East.
Further information: http://www.bundesregierung.de/nn_6562/Content/EN/Artikel/2006/07/2006-07-13-gemeinsam-verantwortung-in-der-welt-tragen__en.html

12 August
Merkel welcomes UN resolution
Chancellor Angela Merkel called the resolution passed by the UN Security Council an important signal of determination on the part of the international community to bring about a cease-fire in Lebanon.
Short statement at: http://www.bundesregierung.de/nn_6562/Content/EN/Artikel/2006/08/2006-08-12-bk-merkel-begruesst-un-resolution__en.html

ITALY

19 July
Information paper - Undersecretary Vernetti meets with US State Department Coordinator for Afghanistan John Gastricht
Undersecretary for Foreign Affairs Sen. Gianni Vernetti met today at the foreign ministry in Rome with John Gastright, US State Department Coordinator for Afghanistan. Sen. Vernetti had an in-depth exchange views on the political and security situation of that Asian country as well as its reconstruction prospects.
Information at: http://www.esteri.it/eng/6_38_90_01.asp?id=2529&mod=1&min=0

19 July
A Common US-EU Strategy
An interview with Minister D'Alema.
Full interview at: http://www.esteri.it/eng/6_38_227_01.asp?id=2526&mod=2&min=1

11 August
Information paper - Minister D'Alema speaks by phone with Condoleezza Rice
Deputy Premier and Minister for Foreign Affairs Massimo D'Alema spoke by telephone yesterday with US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, who updated him on the latest developments in the negotiations under way in New York for a UN Security Council resolution for the cessation of hostilities in Lebanon.
Further information at: http://www.esteri.it/eng/6_38_90_01.asp?id=2570&mod=1&min=0

18 August
Information paper - Minister D'Alema meets with US Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs, David Welch
Deputy Premier and Minister for Foreign Affairs Massimo D'Alema met today with US Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs (and Secretary of State Rice's special envoy to Lebanon), David Welch, with whom he discussed the latest developments in Lebanon and the outlook for the implementation of Resolution 1701.
Further information at: http://www.esteri.it/eng/6_38_90_01.asp?id=2577&mod=1&min=0

United Kingdom

13 July
Foreign Office Publishes Science and Innovation Annual Report
The Foreign Secretary Margaret Beckett highlights the hugely important role of the Foreign Office's Science and Innovation Network in building partnerships between British scientists and scientific communities around the world.
Details at: http://www.fco.gov.uk/servlet/Front?pagename=OpenMarket/Xcelerate/ShowPage&c=Page&cid=1007029391638&a=KArticle&aid=1152527941251&year=2006&month=2006-07-01&date=2006-07-13
Full report at: http://www.fco.gov.uk/Files/kfile/S&ImastergreenFinal.pdf

26 July
Co-Chairman Statement: Rome Conference on Lebanon
Representatives of Italy and the United States, the United Nations, Canada, Cyprus, Egypt, France, Germany, Greece, Jordan, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Spain, Turkey, the United Kingdom, the European Union, and the World Bank met in Rome along with representatives of Lebanon.
Further information at: http://www.fco.gov.uk/servlet/Front?pagename=OpenMarket/Xcelerate/ShowPage&c=Page&cid=1007029391638&a=KArticle&aid=1153389532446&year=2006&month=2006-07-01&date=2006-07-26

27 July
'Foreign Policy and the Diplomat: The End of the Affair?' - Michael Jay
Sir Michael Jay, the Permanent Under Secretary to the FCO, has spoken about the role that diplomats, and in particular the FCO, have to play in 'today's and tomorrow's wider global agenda'. He commented: 'I firmly believe that the task and the job of diplomacy is as important and as challenging and as enduring as ever.'
Full speech at: http://www.fco.gov.uk/servlet/Front?pagename=OpenMarket/Xcelerate/ShowPage&c=Page&cid=1007029391629&a=KArticle&aid=1153389868020&year=2006&month=2006-07-01&date=2006-07-27

31 July
Beckett Welcomes UN Security Council Resolution on Iran's Nuclear Programme
Foreign Secretary, Margaret Beckett, commented on the UN Security Council Resolution: 'I welcome this Resolution, the outcome of much valuable work by our diplomats in New York. I am delighted that it has been adopted by such an overwhelming majority, underlining again that the international community is united and determined to see that Iran does not acquire the means to develop nuclear weapons.'
Full statement at: http://www.fco.gov.uk/servlet/Front?pagename=OpenMarket/Xcelerate/ShowPage&c=Page&cid=1007029391629&a=KArticle&aid=1153391291971&year=2006&month=2006-07-01&date=2006-07-31

1 August
Blair: 'Complete Renaissance' on Foreign Policy
The Prime Minister, Tony Blair, has delivered a major foreign policy speech on the Middle East to the Los Angeles World Affairs Council. In the speech he called for a 'complete renaissance' on foreign policy to combat 'Reactionary Islam'.
Full speech at: http://www.number-10.gov.uk/output/Page9948.asp

10 August
Statements on Terrorism Arrests and Aviation Security
The Home Secretary and the Transport Secretary have made statements concerning the major counter-terrorist operation conducted in the UK on 10 August. John Reid said: 'the police, with the Full knowledge of Ministers, have carried out a major counter-terrorism operation to disrupt what we believe to be a major threat to the UK and international partners'.
Full statements at: http://www.fco.gov.uk/servlet/Front?pagename=OpenMarket/Xcelerate/ShowPage&c=Page&cid=1007029391629&a=KArticle&aid=1153395950689&year=2006&month=2006-08-01&date=2006-08-10

14 August
Press Conference on Revised Terrorist Threat Level and New Aviation Security Rules
The British Home Secretary and Transport Minister held a press conference on Monday, 14 August to announce the revised terrorist threat level and explain the new aviation security rules: 'There is still a very serious threat of an attack. The threat level is at severe indicating the high likelihood of an attempted terrorist attack at some stage.'
Details at: http://www.fco.gov.uk/servlet/Front?pagename=OpenMarket/Xcelerate/ShowPage&c=Page&cid=1007029391629&a=KArticle&aid=1155216627960&year=2006&month=2006-08-01&date=2006-08-14

15 August
Interview with Defence Minister on Terrorism and UK Foreign Policy
In a BBC Radio 4 interview on 15 August, Des Browne, Minister for Defence, has said he does not accept that UK foreign policy can be seen as a radicalisation. Mr Browne said: 'We have an obligation and we discharge that obligation regularly to explain to people including members of the Islamic community who live with us and make a valuable contribution to our society what our foreign policy objectives are'.
Full interview at: http://www.fco.gov.uk/servlet/Front?pagename=OpenMarket/Xcelerate/ShowPage&c=Page&cid=1007029391629&a=KArticle&aid=1155217493216&year=2006&month=2006-08-01&date=2006-08-15

17 August
Is UK Foreign Policy to Blame for Terrorism?
Foreign Minister, Lord Triesman has responded to speculation that UK Foreign Policy is to blame for the alleged terrorist plot on 10 August
. He said: 'British foreign policy is not 'anti-Islamic'. In the Middle East, we share the wish of most people in the region for a peaceful solution to the Israeli/Palestinian conflict, based on a two-state solution, and we have dedicated a great deal of impartial diplomatic effort towards supporting the Road Map'.
Full statement: http://www.fco.gov.uk/servlet/Front?pagename=OpenMarket/Xcelerate/ShowPage&c=Page&cid=1007029391629&a=KArticle&aid=1155219144295&year=2006&month=2006-08-01&date=2006-08-17

25 August
FCO Reveals Numbers of British Citizens Getting Into Trouble Abroad (25/08/06)
The FCO Know Before You Go campaign released the first ever, British Behaviour Abroad report.
Full report at: http://www.fco.gov.uk/servlet/Front?pagename=OpenMarket/Xcelerate/ShowPage&c=Page&cid=1007029391629&a=KArticle&aid=1156397845776&year=2006&month=2006-08-01&date=2006-08-25

NATO

5 July
NATO Secretary General to visit Greece on Friday, 7 July 2006
Information at: http://www.nato.int/docu/pr/2006/p06-083e.htm

7 July
NATO Secretary General to visit Spain on 10 July 2006
Information at: http://www.nato.int/docu/pr/2006/p06-085e.htm

14 July
Nomination of General Bantz J. Craddock, US Army, to succeed General James L. Jones as Supreme Allied Commander, Europe
NATO approved the nomination of General Bantz J. Craddock, US Army, to succeed General James L. Jones, as Supreme Allied Commander, Europe.
Details at: http://www.nato.int/docu/pr/2006/p06-089e.htm

24 August
New NATO Senior Civilian Representative in Afghanistan
The NATO Secretary General, Mr. Jaap de Hoop Scheffer, announced the appointment of Ambassador Daan Everts of the Netherlands to the position of NATO Senior Civilian Representative in Afghanistan.
Details at: http://www.nato.int/docu/pr/2006/p06-098e.htm

WTO

1 July
Spain donates 342,000 euros to WTO technical assistance
The Spanish Government, signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the WTO over a contribution of EUR 342,000 to finance technical assistance and training activities in Latin America and the Caribbean.
Further information at: http://www.wto.org/english/news_e/pres06_e/pr444_e.htm 'We are now in crisis.'

Director-General to try to break impasse
Ministers failed to narrow their differences on the "modalities" or template agreements that are needed to compile detailed cuts in tariffs and agricultural subsidies, and members have asked Director-General Pascal Lamy to try to broker a compromise "as soon as possible". Members also shared his assessment that the negotiations are now in crisis.
Information at: http://www.wto.org/english/news_e/news06_e/mod06_summary_01July_e.htm

4 July
Public forum to focus on WTO's role in the 21st century
The WTO will host its sixth Public Forum on 25-26 September 2006 on the theme "What WTO for the 21st Century". It is inviting participants from civil society, business, academia, media, parliaments and WTO members.
Forum site at: http://www.wto.org/english/forums_e/public_forum_e/forum06_e.htm

12 July
The Czech Republic to contribute CZK 1,5 million to the Doha Trust Fund
The Government of the Czech Republic has given CZK 1,5 million to the WTO Doha Development Agenda Global Trust Fund.
Information at: http://www.wto.org/english/news_e/pres06_e/pr446_e.htm

24 July
WTO World Trade Report focuses on subsidies
Government subsidies can be useful instruments in correcting market failures and working towards social objectives but can also distort trade and provoke strong responses from trading partners, according to the WTO's 2006 World Trade Report.
Information at: http://www.wto.org/english/news_e/pres06_e/pr447_e.htm

24 July
Talks suspended. 'Today there are only losers.'
The Doha Development Agenda negotiations are suspended because gaps between key players remain too wide.
Further information at: http://www.wto.org/english/news_e/news06_e/mod06_summary_24July_e.htm