WHITE HOUSE

3 May
President Bush to Attend U.S.-EU Summit in Vienna, Austria
President Bush will travel to Vienna, Austria to participate in the annual U.S.-EU Summit on June 21, 2006.
Press release: http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2006/05/20060503.html

President Bush Welcomes German Chancellor to the White House
The President and Chancellor Merkel give statements on US/German relations.
Full details at: http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2006/05/20060503-15.html

4 May
Vice President's Remarks at a Meeting with Bulgarian President Georgi Purvanov
Vice President Cheney's remarks at the Vilnius 2006, Reval Hotel Lietuva in Vilnius, Lithuania.
Full statements at: http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2006/05/20060504-6.html

Vice President's Remarks at a Meeting with Romanian President
Vice President Cheney's remarks at the Vilnius 2006, Reval Hotel Lietuva in Vilnius, Lithuania.
Full statements at: http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2006/05/20060504-7.html

Vice President's Remarks at a Meeting with President Mikheil Saakashvili at the Vilnius Conference 2006
Vice President Cheney's remarks with the President of Georgia at the Vilnius 2006, Reval Hotel Lietuva in Vilnius, Lithuania.
Full statements at: http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2006/05/20060504-3.html

Vice President's Remarks at a Breakfast Meeting with Ukrainian President Viktor Yushchenko at the Vilnius Conference 2006
Vice President Cheney's remarks at the Vilnius 2006, Reval Hotel Lietuva in Vilnius, Lithuania.
Full statements at: http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2006/05/20060504.html

Vice President's Remarks at the 2006 Vilnius Conference
Vice President Cheney's remarks at the Vilnius 2006, Reval Hotel Lietuva in Vilnius, Lithuania.
Full statements at: http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2006/05/20060504-1.html

President Attends American Jewish Committee's Centennial Dinner
A speech given by President Bush in the National Building Museum, Washington, D.C.
Full text at: http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2006/05/20060504-15.html

Interview of the President by Sabine Christiansen of ARD German Television
President Bush interviewed in the Diplomatic Reception Room at the White House.
Full text at: http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2006/05/20060507-3.html

5 May
Interview of the President by Kai Diekmann of BILD
President Bush interviewed in the Oval Office for the German Newspaper BILD.
Full text at: http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2006/05/20060507-2.html

7 May
Vice President Cheney, Prime Minister Ivo Sanader of Croatia, Prime Minister Vlado Buckovski of Macedonia, and Prime Minister Sali Berisha of Albania Make Remarks at a Meeting of the Adriatic 3 Leaders.
Statements by all three leaders at The Excelsior Hotel, Dubrovnik, Croatia.
Full text at: http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2006/05/20060507.html

25 May
President Bush and Prime Minister Tony Blair of the United Kingdom Participate in Joint Press Availability
Joint Press conference held in The East Room of the White House.
Full text at: http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2006/05/20060525-12.html

26 May
Joint Statement by President Bush and Prime Minister Blair
The Prime Minister and the President discussed ways to strengthen defence co-operation.
Full text at: http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2006/05/20060526-5.html

31 May
President Attends Swearing-In Ceremony of CIA Director Michael Hayden Ceremony held at the CIA Headquarters Langley, Virginia.
Full speech at: http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2006/05/20060531-3.html

9 June
President Bush and Prime Minister Rasmussen of Denmark Participate in Joint Press Availability
Press Statement given by the President and Prime Minister in Camp David.
Full statements at: http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2006/06/20060609-2.html

14 June
Mrs. Bush's Remarks during a Tour of the Bellini, Giorgione, Titian and the Renaissance of Venetian Painting Exhibit with Mrs. Leila Castellaneta, Wife of the Ambassador Giovanni Castellaneta
Mrs Bush's remarks at: http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2006/06/20060614-2.html

21 June
US-EU Summit
The link below connects with the dedicated White House website for this summit: http://www.whitehouse.gov/infocus/eusummit/

President and Mrs. Bush Participate in Roundtable with Foreign Students
A meeting arranged as part of the summit in the Austrian National Library, Vienna, Austria.
Full Q&A session at: http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2006/06/20060621-7.html

22 June
President Bush Meets with Prime Minister Gyurcsány in Budapest, Hungary
Statements by President Bush and the Prime Minister given in the Parliament Building, Budapest, Hungary.
Full statements at: http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2006/06/20060622-1.html

President Bush Meets with Hungarian President Sólyom
Statements by both Presidents given at Maria Therese Salon, Sandor Palace, Budapest, Hungary.
Statements at: http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2006/06/20060622-3.html

President's Remarks to the People of Hungary
Full statement given at Gellert Hill, Budapest, Hungary at: http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2006/06/20060622-6.html


US DEPARTMENT OF STATE

8 May
Remarks With British Foreign Secretary Margaret Beckett
Statements by Secretary Condoleezza Rice and Margaret Beckett in New York City.
Full text at: http://www.state.gov/secretary/rm/2006/65976.htm

9 May
Remarks With French Foreign Minister Philippe Douste-Blazy
Short post dinner statement by Secretary Condoleezza Rice in New York City.
Full text at: http://www.state.gov/secretary/rm/2006/66029.htm

10 May
Remarks With Javier Solana, Secretary General of the Council of the European Union and High Representative for the Common Foreign and Security Policy Before Their Meeting
Short Q & A session by Condoleezza Rice and Javier Solana in Washington, DC.
Full text at: http://www.state.gov/secretary/rm/2006/66069.htm

The United States and International Development: Partnering for Growth
A fact sheet showing the United States commitment to helping the world's poor.
Tell text at: http://www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/ps/2006/66060.htm

11 May
The United States and the European Union: A Renewed Partnership Delivering Results
A speech by Kurt Volker, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for European and Eurasian Affairs at the Conference on "New Instruments of International Governance: Transatlantic and Global Perspectives" at the Diplomatic Academy, Vienna, Austria.
Full text at: http://www.state.gov/p/eur/rls/rm/66175.htm

United States Renews Its Commitment to the SEED Initiative
Under Secretary of State for Democracy and Global Affairs Paula Dobriansky announced that the United States renewed its commitment to the Supporting Entrepreneurs for Environment and Development (SEED) Initiative.
Further information at: http://www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/ps/2006/66125.htm

12 May
U.S. and Switzerland Establish MOU Framework for Intensified Cooperation
Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs R. Nicholas Burns and Swiss State Secretary Michael Ambühl signed a Memorandum of Understanding Establishing a Framework for Intensified Cooperation (MOU) between the United States and Switzerland.
Further information at: http://www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/ps/2006/66222.htm

18 May
America and Turkey: The Uncertain Partnership
A discussion featuring Assistant Secretary for European and Eurasian Affairs Daniel Fried; Ambassador Marc Grossman; Turkish Foreign Ministry Spokesman Namik Tan; and Ambassador Osmun Faruk Logoglu.
Text at: http://www.state.gov/p/eur/rls/rm/66743.htm

22 May
Remarks at the Swearing-in of Gregg Rickman as the Special Envoy for Monitoring and Combating Anti-Semitism
Short speeches by Secretary Condoleezza Rice and Mr Rickman in the Treaty Room, Washington, DC.
Text at: http://www.state.gov/secretary/rm/2006/66672.htm

5 June
Release of the Sixth Annual Trafficking in Persons Report
A speech given by Secretary Condoleezza Rice in Washington, DC.
Full speech at: http://www.state.gov/secretary/rm/2006/67551.htm

The U.S.-Danish Relationship
An interview with Danish TV2, given by Daniel Fried, Assistant Secretary for European and Eurasian Affairs in Denmark.
Full interview at: http://www.state.gov/p/eur/rls/rm/67731.htm

8 June
The Division of Cyprus
A speech given by Daniel Fried, the Assistant Secretary for European and Eurasian Affairs at the 7th Annual Cyprus Conference in Washington, DC.
Full speech at: http://www.state.gov/p/eur/rls/rm/67760.htm

13 June
U.S. Recognizes Montenegro as Independent State
A short statement given by Secretary Condoleezza Rice in Washington, DC.
Statement at: http://www.state.gov/secretary/rm/2006/67839.htm

15 June
Remarks Before Meeting With Minister of Foreign Affairs of Norway Jonas Gahr Stoere
Short statements given by both Secretary Condoleezza Rice and Joans Gahr Stoere in Washington, DC.
Statements at: http://www.state.gov/secretary/rm/2006/67957.htm

16 June
Remarks After Meeting With Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Massimo D'Alema
A statement follwed by a Q&A session with Secretary Condoleezza Rice and Massimo D'Alema in Washington, DC.
Full statement at: http://www.state.gov/secretary/rm/2006/67995.htm

United States Support to European Union Conference on Darfur
Taken Question by the Office of the Spokesman Washington, DC.
Statement at: http://www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/ps/2006/67996.htm

19 June
Remarks With Foreign Minister Miguel Angel Moratinos of Spain After Their Meeting
A statement followed by a Q&A session with Secretary Condoleezza Rice and Miguel Angel Moratinos in the Benjamin Franklin Room, Washington, DC.
Full statements at: http://www.state.gov/secretary/rm/2006/68081.htm

Remarks With Foreign Affairs Minister Anna Fotyga of the Republic of Poland After Their Meeting
A short statement by both Secretary Condoleezza Rice and Anna Fotyga in the Benjamin Franklin Room, Washington, DC.
Short statements at: http://www.state.gov/secretary/rm/2006/68087.htm

June 23
Post U.S.-EU Summit
A speech and Q&A session given by Daniel Fried, Assistant Secretary for European and Eurasian Affairs at a Press Roundtable in Washington, DC.
Full speech and Q&A at: http://www.state.gov/p/eur/rls/rm/68320.htm

29 June
Remarks With Foreign Ministers at the G-8 Ministerial
Secretary Condoleezza Rice remarks with British Foreign Secretary Margaret Beckett, Canadian Foreign Minister Peter MacKay, European Union High Representative Javier Solana, French Foreign Minister Philippe Douste-Blazy, German Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier, Italian Foreign Minister Massimo D'alema, Japanese Foreign Minister Taro Aso, and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in Moscow, Russia.
Full statements at: http://www.state.gov/secretary/rm/2006/68443.htm

30 June
Northern Ireland - Statement by Prime Ministers Blair and Ahern
A short statement of support for the restoring of power sharing.
Statement at: http://www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/ps/2006/68502.htm


UNITED STATES SENATE COMMITTEE ON FOREIGN RELATIONS

25 May
A Status Report on United Nations Reform
Hearing before the committee with testimony by John Bolton.
Further information at: http://foreign.senate.gov/hearings/2006/hrg060525a.html

8 June
The Role of Non-Governmental Organisations in the Development of Democracy
Hearing before the Committee on Foreign Relations of the United States Senate, One Hundred Ninth Congress, second session.
Statements at: http://foreign.senate.gov/hearings/2006/hrg060608a.html


UNITED STATES INTERNATIONAL TRADE COMMISSION

9 May
ITC Institutes Section 337 Investigation on Certain Products and Pharmaceutical Compositions Containing Recombinant Human Erythropoietin
The ITC has voted to institute an investigation of certain products and pharmaceutical compositions containing recombinant human erythropoietin.
Further details: http://prototype.usitc.gov/ext_relations/news_release/2006/er0509dd1.htm

11 May
ITC Institutes Section 337 Investigation on Certain Endoscopic Probes for Use in Argon Plasma Coagulation Systems
The ITC has voted to institute an investigation of certain endoscopic probes for use in argon plasma coagulation systems. The products at issue in this investigation are flexible catheter probes with a blue tube design used to coagulate tissue during endoscopic surgical procedures.
Further details: http://prototype.usitc.gov/ext_relations/news_release/2006/er0511dd2.htm

5 June
ITC Will Conduct Full "Sunset" Reviews Concerning Stainless Steel Bar from Brazil, India, Japan, and Spain
The U.S. International Trade Commission voted to conduct full five-year ("sunset") reviews concerning the antidumping duty orders on imports of stainless steel bar from Brazil, India, Japan, and Spain.
Further information on: http://www.usitc.gov/ext_relations/news_release/2006/er0605dd1.htm

7 June
ITC Institutes Section 337 Investigation on Certain Insulin Delivery Devices, Including Cartridges Having Adaptor Tops, and Components Thereof
The U.S. International Trade Commission has voted to institute an investigation of certain insulin delivery devices, including cartridges having adaptor tops, and components thereof.
Further information at: http://www.usitc.gov/ext_relations/news_release/2006/er0607dd1.htm

12 June
ITC Institutes Section 337 Investigation on Certain Equipment for Telecommunications or Data Communications Networks, Including Routers, Switches, And Hubs, and Components Thereof
The U.S. International Trade Commission has voted to institute an investigation of certain equipment for telecommunications or data communications networks, including routers, switches, and hubs, and components thereof.
Further information at: http://www.usitc.gov/ext_relations/news_release/2006/er0612dd2.htm

13 June
Elimination of Duties on Certain Pharmaceutical Products and Chemical Intermediates is Focus of New ITC Investigation
The U.S. International Trade Commission has instituted a new investigation to provide information and advice to the President concerning approximately 1300 pharmaceutical products and chemical intermediates used primarily for the production of pharmaceuticals for which the Administration is proposing to eliminate duties.
Full details at: http://www.usitc.gov/ext_relations/news_release/2006/er0613dd2.htm

23 June
ITC Reports Strong Trade Performance by U.S. Service Industries
The U.S. service sector accounted for 83 percent of gross domestic product and 85 percent of employment in the private sector in 2004, reports the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC or Commission) in its publication Recent Trends in U.S. Services Trade, 2006 Annual Report.
Further details at: http://www.usitc.gov/ext_relations/news_release/2006/er0623dd1.htm

29 June
ITC makes Determinations in Five-Year (Sunset) Reviews Concerning Stainless Steel Wire Rod from Brazil, France, and India
The U.S. International Trade Commission has determined that revoking the existing antidumping duty order on stainless steel wire rod from France would not likely to lead to continuation or recurrence of material injury within a reasonably foreseeable time.
Further information: http://www.usitc.gov/ext_relations/news_release/2006/er0629dd1.htm

30 June
ITC Institutes Section 337 Investigation on Certain Wireless Communication Equipment, Articles Therein, and Products Containing the Same
The U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) has voted to institute an investigation of certain wireless communication equipment, articles therein, and products containing the same.
Further information at: http://www.usitc.gov/ext_relations/news_release/2006/er0630dd2.htm


U.S. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

3 May
Statement by U.S. Commerce Secretary Carlos Gutierrez on the Release of the Transatlantic Business Dialogue 2006 Recommendation for a Barrier-Free Transatlantic Marketplace
Full statement at: http://trade.gov/press/press_releases/2006/tabd_050306.asp

27 June
Steel Imports or May 2006 Increased 7 Percent From April 2006
Newly released preliminary government figures covering steel imports for the month of May 2006 show that steel imports increased 7 percent from April 2006 levels.
Further information: http://trade.gov/press/press_releases/2006/steel_062706.asp


OFFICE OF THE UNITED STATES TRADE REPRESENTATIVE

1 May
Moore Named Assistant USTR for Intergovernmental Affairs and Public Liaison
United States Trade Representative Rob Portman announcesTiffany Moore as Assistant USTR for Intergovernmental Affairs and Public Liaison.
Further information at: http://www.ustr.gov/Document_Library/Press_Releases/2006/May/Moore_Named_Assistant_USTR_for_Intergovernmental_Affairs_Public_Liaison.html

9 May
U.S. Proposes More Trade in Environmental Goods, Improved Fisheries Policies
U.S. Trade Representative Rob Portman announces that the United States has submitted new proposals to increase market access for environmental goods and improve disciplines on fisheries subsidies.
Further details: http://www.ustr.gov/Document_Library/Press_Releases/2006/May/US_Proposes_More_Trade_in_Environmental_Goods,_Improved_Fisheries_Policies.html

25 May
United States and Switzerland Sign "Trade and Investment Cooperation Forum"
This agreement establishes a "Trade and Investment Cooperation Forum" for the United States and Switzerland to discuss bilateral trade and related issues and examine ways to strengthen our economic relationship.
Further details at: http://www.ustr.gov/Document_Library/Press_Releases/2006/May/United_States_Switzerl_Sign_Trade_Investment_Cooperation_Forum_Agreement.html

16 June
WTO Panel Finds Against EC Customs Law Administration
Deputy U.S. Trade Representative Peter F Allgeier announced that a WTO dispute settlement panel today issued a report shining a spotlight on the lack of uniform administration of customs laws in the European Communities (EC).
Further details at: http://www.ustr.gov/Document_Library/Press_Releases/2006/June/WTO_Panel_Finds_Against_EC_Customs_Law_Administration.html

30 June
Bush Administration Completes 2005 Annual Review of Generalized System of Preferences Program
The Bush Administration announced today the outcome of the 2005 Annual Review of the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), on countries currently export certain products duty-free to the United States.
Further details at: http://www.ustr.gov/Document_Library/Press_Releases/2006/June/Bush_Administration_Completes_2005_Annual_Review_of_Generalized_System_of_Preferences_Program.html


EUROPEAN COMMISSION

2 May
The Directive on the right to move and reside freely in the Union / Seven million European citizens already live in another Member State
The right to free movement and residence is one of the most visible rights conferred to Union citizens. An estimated seven million Union citizens have taken advantage of their rights and now live in another Member State of the Union.
Further information: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=MEMO/06/179&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

3 May
Working for a Global Community of Freedom, Security and Prosperity
A speech by José Manuel Barroso the President of the European Commission at a Brussels forum on transatlantic challenges in a global era in Brussels, 29 April 2006.
Full text at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=SPEECH/06/269&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

Enlargement, two years on: all win as new Member States get richer
Two years later, the biggest enlargement ever of the European Union is an economic success: the 10 new Member States' economies are growing at a rapid pace enabling them to progressively bridge the gap with their richer neighbours.
Further information: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/06/557&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

4 May
Europe's response to globalisation: where does EU trade policy go from here?
A speech given by Peter Mandelson the EU Trade Commissioner at a Globalisation Seminar in Wolfsberg, Switzerland on 4 May 2006.
Full text at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=SPEECH/06/274&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

Europe's films more successful than ever at Cannes Film Festival 2006
When the Cannes International Film Festival 2006 opened it will mark a particularly successful year for Europe's film industry. Seventeen European films, which all received funding under the EU's MEDIA programme, have made it into the final selection.
Further information: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/06/572&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

Company law and corporate governance: public hearing on future priorities for the Action Plan
The European Commission held on 3 May 2006 a public hearing on future priorities for the Action Plan on "Modernising Company Law and Enhancing Corporate Governance in the EU".
Further information at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/06/574&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

Single Euro Payments Area - Joint statement from the European Commission and the European Central Bank
Internal Market and Services Commissioner Charlie McCreevy meet with twenty top European bankers in order to emphasise to them the importance he attaches to the realisation of the Single Euro Payment Area (SEPA).
Further details: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/06/577&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

5 May
Mergers: Commission approves acquisition of joint control of OSi Europe Business by GE and Bayer
The European Commission has cleared under the EU Merger Regulation the proposed acquisition of joint control of three current subsidiaries of General Electric (GE) active in the silicone business (together "OSi Europe Business"), by General Electric Company ("GE") of the US and Bayer AG of Germany.
Further information at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/06/584&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

10 May
EU-Latin America relations on the eve of the Vienna Summit, 12 May 2006
The relationship between the two regions has evolved substantially over the past three decades and currently reflects the will of both parties to further strengthen the relationship in the future.
Further details at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=MEMO/06/191&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

EU-Latin American and Caribbean Summit: moving the strategic partnership forward
The 25 Heads of State and Government of the European Union and 33 of Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) will hold their 4th Summit in Vienna (Austria) on 12 May 2006.
Further information at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/06/594&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

European Commission establishes scientific partnership with the Amazon Co-operation Treaty Organisation
The European Commission and the Amazon Cooperation Treaty Organization (ACTO) are making joint efforts aimed at supporting the set up of Pan-Amazonian environmental information systems.
Further details at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/06/598&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

11 May
"Future challenges of EU humanitarian aid and the role of Non Governmental Organisations"
A speech by Louis Michel, EU Commissioner for Development and Humanitarian Aid at the Voice General Assembly in Brussels.
Full text at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=SPEECH/06/301&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

The EU and the US exchange Good Practices on Diet, Physical Activity and Health
Topics will be discussed today at an EU-US conference in Brussels hosted by the Commission and addressing diet, physical activity, and health.
Further information: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/06/603&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

12 May
Tackling obesity and overweight - a transatlantic perspective
A speech by Markos Kyprianou, European Commissioner for Health and Consumer Protection, Closing speech to the EU - US Conference on Diet Physical Activity and Health in Brussels.
Full text at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=SPEECH/06/294&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

How can Europe meet the challenges of globalisation?
A speech by Margot Wallström Vice-Present of the European Commission responsible for Institutional Relations and Communication Strategy at "A Century of Excellence - Focus on Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Centenary" Conference, Swedish Chamber of Commerce for the United Kingdom London.
Full text: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=SPEECH/06/296&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

EU welcomes repeal of US tax breaks to US exporters will withdraw reintroduction of sanctions
The European Union warmly welcomed the repeal by the US Congress of WTO-incompatible tax breaks for US companies contained in the Jobs Act.
Further information: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/06/606&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

15 May
Progressive liberalisation in a globalised world
A speech by Peter Mandelson, EU Trade Commissioner, at the European Chamber of Commerce in Manila Peninsula, The Philippines.
Full speech at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=SPEECH/06/298&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

16 May
US Foreign Sales Corporations: EU suspends countermeasures and will repeal them when the US ends illegal subsidies
EU considered Recent developments as putting a satisfactory end to the long-standing dispute over the FSC scheme and that the US bill contributes to a positive atmosphere in the EU-US trade relationship.
Further information at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=PRES/06/145&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

17 May
Period of reflection:
The EESC called on the European Council to give the European project new credibility to enable the EU is to overcome its current identity crisis.
Further information at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=CES/06/54&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

Strengthening Multilateral Institutions for the 21st Century - the EU, UN and Management Reform
A speech by the Vice-President of the European Commission responsible for Administrative Affairs, Audit and Anti-Fraud at The European Union Studies Center, CUNY in New York.
Full text at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=SPEECH/06/317&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

19 May
Mergers: Commission approves takeover of GTECH by Lottomatica
The European Commission has approved under the EU Merger Regulation the planned acquisition by the Italian company Lottomatica of its competitor GTECH, a US company active in the gaming and betting sectors.
Further information at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/06/663&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

23 May
European Charter for Film Online endorsed by major industry players
At the Cannes Film Festival, major representatives of the film and content industry, of Internet service providers and of telecom operators from the EU and the U.S. endorsed the European Film Online Charter that they had jointly developed under the auspices of the European Commission.
Details at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/06/672&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

30 May
The Court annuls the Council decision concerning the conclusion of an agreement between the European Community and the United States of America on the processing and transfer of personal data and the commission decision on the adequate protection of those data
Judgment of the Court of Justice in Joined Cases C-317/04 and C-318/04
Neither the Commission decision finding that the data are adequately protected by the United States nor the Council decision approving the conclusion of an agreement on their transfer to that country are founded on an appropriate legal basis.
Full judgement at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=CJE/06/46&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

EU-US relations: EESC calls for deeper involvement of civil society in the Transatlantic Partnership
The EESC reiterates its position on EU-US relations, as set out in the EESC's opinion on 'Transatlantic Dialogue: how to improve the Transatlantic Relationship'.
Further information: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=CES/06/56&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

31 May
Situation of prisoners in Guantanamo
A speech given by Benita Ferrero-Waldner the European Commissioner for External Relations and European Neighbourhood Policy in the European Parliament, Brussels.
Full speech at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=SPEECH/06/335&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

Improving transatlantic relations in the framework of a Transatlantic Partnership Agreement (E. Brok report)
A speech given by Benita Ferrero-Waldner the European Commissioner for External Relations and European Neighbourhood Policy at the European Parliament in Brussels.
Full speech at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=SPEECH/06/343&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

1 June
Die Transatlantische Partnerschaft in einer globalisierten Welt
A speech in German by Benita Ferrero-Waldner.
Speech at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=SPEECH/06/338&format=HTML&aged=0&language=DE&guiLanguage=en

2 June
"Common Visa Application Centres" and the introduction of biometrics in the Visa Information System (VIS)
The aims of the proposal are twofold the introduction of biometrics into the visa procedure and the amending the work of organisation of Member States consular offices in line with the Hague programme.
Further details at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/06/717&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

Commissioner Kyprianou welcomes agreement on revision of food additives and sweeteners legislation
Markos Kyprianou, Commissioner for Health and Consumer Protection, has welcomed the agreement at the Health Council to amend 2 EU Directives on food additives and sweeteners.
Further details at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/06/724&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

7 June
EU-Iraq: a new chapter
The European Commission has examined how the EU can step up its engagement with the country and presented a number of recommendations with a special focus on consolidating democracy and building Iraq's economy.
Full details at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/06/740&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

EU and US continue to work jointly on biotechnology research
On visit of 8 June to the United States of America, Janez Poto?nik European Science and Research Commissioner, will sign the renewal of an administrative arrangement for the EC-US Task Force on Biotechnology Research.
Full details at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/06/745&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

8 June
EU External Action: Commission presents proposals to strengthen the Union's role as a global actor
The European Commission has approved a communication ("Europe in the World: Some Practical Proposals for Greater Coherence, Effectiveness and Visibility") which examines how to strengthen the EU's external action without changes to the existing Treaty.
Further information: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/06/752&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

9 June
The Council adopts rules strengthening the rights of disabled persons and persons with reduced mobility travelling by air
The Council adopted a regulation strengthening the rights of disabled persons and persons with reduced mobility when travelling by air.
Further information: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=PRES/06/173&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

16 June
The Commission calls on the Member States and the social partners to implement the ILO Maritime Labour Convention
The International Labour Organisation (ILO) adopted a Convention on labour standards for seafarers, an international legal instrument affecting the 1.2 million seafarers worldwide, as well as shipowners and maritime nations around the world, at the end of the tenth Maritime Session of the International Labour Conference on 23 February 2006.
Further details: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/06/788&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

19 June
Competition: Commission confirms sending Statement of Objections to members of SkyTeam global airline alliance
The European Commission can confirm that it has sent a Statement of Objections to members of the SkyTeam airline alliance. It has concerns about a limited number of routes, for which the Commission considers that the SkyTeam co-operation may have a negative effect on competition and therefore might infringe the EC Treaty's prohibition on restrictive business practices.
Further details at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=MEMO/06/243&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

EU - US Summit, Vienna, 21 June 2006
Commission President José Manuel Barroso, President of the European Council and Austrian Chancellor Wolfgang Schüssel and US President George W. Bush will meet at the EU-US Summit on 21 June in Vienna to discuss foreign policy co-operation, energy security, economy and trade, and other global challenges.
Further information at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/06/795&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

Transfer of passenger name records (PNR): The Commission adopts two initiatives to comply with the Ruling of the European Court of Justice on the transfer of PNR to the United States of America
The European Commission adopted two initiatives to put a legally sound framework in place for the transfer of PNR data to the United States. European Court of Justice had ruled that the Article 95 EC-Treaty was not an appropriate legal basis for the transfer of PNR data that are essentially aiming to ensure public security and activities by public authorities in areas of criminal law.
Further details at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/06/800&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

20 June
EU - USA Summit - An EU25 surplus in trade in goods of nearly 90 bn euro with the USA in 2005 USA is the first trading partner of the EU25
Taking goods and services together, the EU25 and the USA account for the largest bilateral trade relationship in the world. The significant amount of bilateral trade and investment illustrates a high degree of interdependence of the two economies.
Full details at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=STAT/06/84&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

Competition: 2005 Annual Report on Competition Policy
An overview of the most important policy and legislative initiatives and decisions adopted by the European Commission in application of EU competition law in 2005 is featured in the 2005 Annual Report on Competition Policy.
Further details at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/06/804&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

EU-US Summit: EU and US step up joint fight against counterfeiting
US Commerce Secretary Carlos Gutierrez, European Commission Vice President and Commissioner for Industry Günter Verheugen and EU Trade Commissioner Peter Mandelson launched a joint EU-US action programme to tackle global intellectual property piracy.
Further information at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/06/805&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

Mergers: Commission approves acquisition of Dow's superabsorbent polymers business by Degussa
The European Commission has cleared under the EU Merger Regulation the proposed acquisition of the superabsorbent polymers business of the US company Dow by Degussa of Germany. Both Dow and Degussa are active in the production of superabsorbent polymers (SAP) used in particular in hygienic and personal care products.
Full details at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/06/809&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

21 June
SOMMET EU-US - Vienne, 21 juin 2006
Table Des Matières at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=PRES/06/189&format=HTML&aged=0&language=FR&guiLanguage=en

EU-US Summit: signature of new agreement to boost co-operation in higher education and vocational training
At the EU-US summit in Vienna, a new eight-year education agreement was signed between the two parties, renewing their long-standing co-operation programme in higher education and vocational training.
Further information: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/06/812&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

23 June
Doha Round: some recent economic analysis
A number of recent studies have tried to assess the economic impact of the Doha Round for the world in general and for developing countries in particular.
Further information: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=MEMO/06/247&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

Mergers: Commission clears Continental's acquisition of Motorola's automotive electronics business
The European Commission has cleared under the EU Merger Regulation the acquisition of Motorola's automotive electronics systems business by Germany's Continental AG.
Further details: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/06/836&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

27 June
Protection of fundamental rights in Europe- First lessons drawn from "rendition"- debate
A speech given by Vice President Franco Frattini, European Commissioner responsible for Justice, Freedom and Security at the Council of Europe in Strasbourg.
Full speech at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=SPEECH/06/418&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

Corporate Governance Framework: Issues at stake
A speech given by Charlie McCreevy the European Commissioner for Internal Market and Services at the Transatlantic Corporate Governance Dialogue in Brussels.
Full speech at http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=SPEECH/06/421&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

The Court dismisses the action challenging the directive on the right to family reunification of nationals of non-member States Judgment of the Court of Justice in Case C-540/03
- full press release at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=CJE/06/52&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

28 June
Competition: Commission revises Guidelines for setting fines in antitrust cases
The European Commission has adopted new Guidelines on the method of setting fines to be imposed on companies that infringe EC Treaty rules that outlaw cartels and other restrictive business practices and abuses of dominant position. http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/06/857&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

29 June
Council adopts its common position on new chemicals EU legislation - the REACH system
The Council, following its political agreement on 13 December 2005, adopted two common positions which will be now forwarded to the European Parliament for a second reading under the co-decision procedure.
Full details: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=PRES/06/191&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

New, secure biometric passports in the EU, strengthen security and data protection and facilitates travelling
The European Commission has adopted the second part of the technical specifications required for the introduction of biometric identifiers (fingerprints) into the passport and other travel documents issued by Member States.
Full details at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/06/872&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

30 June
Competition: Commission sends Statement of Objections to MasterCard
The European Commission can confirm that it has sent a supplementary Statement of Objections (SO) to MasterCard on 23 June 2006. In its SO the Commission takes the preliminary view that MasterCard restricts competition between member banks by pre-determining a minimum price retailers must pay for accepting MasterCard and Maestro branded payment cards.
Full details at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=MEMO/06/260&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

Mergers: Commission approves proposed acquisition of Ciba's Textile Effects business by Huntsman International
The European Commission has cleared under the EU Merger Regulation the proposed acquisition of Ciba's Textile Effects Business (Switzerland) by Huntsman International of the US.
Full details at: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/06/904&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en


E.U GOVERNMENT

Austria

8 May
Plassnik: "Assuming responsibility for the path towards peace"
Statement made by the Foreign Minister at the Middle East Quartet Meeting in New York.
Full statement at: http://www.bmaa.gv.at/view.php3?f_id=10899&LNG=en&version=

10 May
Plassnik: "Help for the Palestinians - but no funding for violence and terrorism"
Statement made by the Foreign Minister after the meeting of the Middle East Quartet in New York.
Full statement at: http://www.bmaa.gv.at/view.php3?f_id=10911&LNG=en&version=

1 June
Plassnik: "ongoing close EU-US cooperation"
Foreign Minister reports to EU Parliament on the transatlantic relationship.
Further details at: http://www.bmaa.gv.at/view.php3?f_id=11080&LNG=en&version=

13 June
Plassnik: "Warning sign for Turkey"
Foreign Minister Ursula Plassnik at the first accession conference with Turkey.
Further information at: http://www.bmaa.gv.at/view.php3?f_id=11132&LNG=en&version=

Plassnik: "Intricate web of relations between the EU and Israel"
Austrian Foreign Minister chairs EU-Israel Association Council. http://www.bmaa.gv.at/view.php3?f_id=11137&LNG=en&version=

21 June
Plassnik: "EU and USA - partners with Global responsibility"
Austrian Foreign Minister Ursula Plassnik at the EU-US Summit in Vienna.
Further details: http://www.bmaa.gv.at/view.php3?f_id=11186&LNG=en&version=


France

5 May
Interview of Jean-David Levitte, Ambassador of France to the United States to the "San Diego Union- Tribune"
Full interview at: http://www.info-france-usa.org/news/statmnts/2006/levitte_sandiego_tribune050506.asp

9 May
Visit to New York - Press briefing given by Foreign Minister Philippe Douste-Blazy
Full Press briefing at: http://www.info-france-usa.org/news/statmnts/2006/us_france_blazy_newyork_press_briefing050906.asp

9 June
Speech by Catherine Colonna, Minister Delegate for European Affairs, to the presentation of the insignia of Chevalier of the Legion of Honor to Jim Hoagland, Editorialist of the Washington Post.
Full speech at: http://www.info-france-usa.org/news/statmnts/2006/hoagland_decoration_colonna060906.asp


Germany

2 May
Strengthening Germany's competence in the aerospace sector
Germany will continue to play a major role in the development of cutting-edge technologies and aerospace research will figure prominently in these efforts.
Further details at: http://www.bundesregierung.de/nn_6562/Content/EN/Artikel/2006/05/2006-05-02-stengthening-germany-s-competance-in-the-aerospace-sector.html

4 May
New impetus for transatlantic economic exchange
Chancellor Angela Merkel reaffirmed the German government's intention to continue to expand economic relations with the United States.
Speech at: http://www.bundesregierung.de/nn_6562/Content/EN/Artikel/2006/05/2006-05-04-new-impetus-for-transatlantic-economic-exchange.html

5 May
Assuming historical responsibility for Israel
In a keynote speech at the American Jewish Committee's 100th Annual Meeting Gala Dinner and Reception in Washington Chancellor Angela Merkel referred to recognition of Israel's right to exist as an unshakable constant of German foreign policy.
Further information at: http://www.bundesregierung.de/nn_6562/Content/EN/Artikel/2006/05/2006-05-05-assuming-historical-responsibility-for-israel.html

26 May
Germany will take constructive approach to Turkish accession negotiations
Chancellor Angela Merkel and Prime Minister Recept Erdogan jointly opened a German-Turkish economic forum in Berlin. In her statement Merkel assured that the accession negotiations would go forward as agreed.
Further information: http://www.bundesregierung.de/nn_6562/Content/EN/Artikel/2006/05/2006-05-26-germany-will-take-constructive-approach-to-turkish-accession-negotiations.html

1 June
Germany assumes ISAF command
The International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) mission in Afghanistan is now under the command of German officers.
Further details at: http://www.bundesregierung.de/nn_6562/Content/EN/Artikel/2006/06/2006-06-01-germany-assumes-isaf-command.html

6 June
Merkel and Chirac for continuation of EU constitutional process
During its presidency next year the German government wants to gather proposals from its European partners on how the constitution might still be saved.
Further information at: http://www.bundesregierung.de/nn_6562/Content/EN/Artikel/2006/06/2006-06-06-merkel-and-chirac-for-continuation-of-eu-constitutional-process.html

8 June
Germany top European country in attractiveness for corporate investment
Multinational corporations consider Germany the most attractive European location to invest in. They rate it third in the world, after the United States and China. Further information at:http://www.bundesregierung.de/nn_6562/Content/EN/Artikel/2006/06/2006-06-08-germany-top-european-country-in-attractiveness-for-corporate-investment.html


United Kingdom

5 May
Margaret Beckett Appointed as Foreign Secretary
Short statement and CV at: http://www.fco.gov.uk/servlet/Front?pagename=OpenMarket/Xcelerate/ShowPage&c=Page&cid=1007029391629&a=KArticle&aid=1145893896959%20&year=2006&month=2006-05-01&date=2006-05-05

10 May
'European Security and Globalisation' - Howells Speech
Speaking in Bucharest on security issues, Dr Howells took the opportunity to welcome Romanian accession to the EU. Impressed with the progress in Romania, he said that Romania had become a significant player on the international stage and made an important contribution to international peace keeping operations.
Speech at: http://www.fco.gov.uk/servlet/Front?pagename=OpenMarket/Xcelerate/ShowPage&c=Page&cid=1007029391629&a=KArticle&aid=1145894939378%20&year=2006&month=2006-05-01&date=2006-05-10

12 May
UK and Mexico Sign Trade Agreement in Vienna
The UK and Mexico signed a bilateral Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement (IPPA) in Vienna. FCO Minister Lord Triesman, who signed this agreement on behalf of the UK on 12 May, said it will offer investors, shareholders and both governments a mechanism for bilateral protection of their investments in the UK and Mexico.
Further information at: http://www.fco.gov.uk/servlet/Front?pagename=OpenMarket/Xcelerate/ShowPage&c=Page&cid=1007029391629&a=KArticle&aid=1145895679291%20&year=2006&month=2006-05-01&date=2006-05-12

15 May
Beckett: Normalisation of US-Libya Relations
The Foreign Secretary welcomed the decision by the United States to upgrade its diplomatic representation in Libya, and begin the process of removing Libya from the list of state sponsors of terrorism.
Full statement at: http://www.fco.gov.uk/servlet/Front?pagename=OpenMarket/Xcelerate/ShowPage&c=Page&cid=1007029391629&a=KArticle&aid=1145896428193%20&year=2006&month=2006-05-01&date=2006-05-15

17 May
Unite and Lead: UK-German Partnership in Europe
'I believe that the UK and Germany can achieve a great deal together. The question is not about whether we can live without Europe. It is about how we can make it continue to work for us - and for our citizens - in the future.'
Full details at: http://www.fco.gov.uk/servlet/Front?pagename=OpenMarket/Xcelerate/ShowPage&c=Page&cid=1007029391629&a=KArticle&aid=1145897454933%20&year=2006&month=2006-05-01&date=2006-05-17

19 May
Triesman Welcomes Debate on the Future of Cuba
Lord Triesman welcomed the launch of the 'All Cubans Programme' by EU Sakharov prizewinner Oswaldo Paya.
Further information at: http://www.fco.gov.uk/servlet/Front?pagename=OpenMarket/Xcelerate/ShowPage&c=Page&cid=1007029391629&a=KArticle&aid=1145898582899%20&year=2006&month=2006-05-01&date=2006-05-19

9 June
Change of United Kingdom Permanent Representative on the North Atlantic Council
The Foreign Secretary has approved the appointment of Mr Stewart Eldon CMG, OBE to be the UK Permanent Representative on the North Atlantic Council in succession to Sir Peter Ricketts KCMG.
Further information and CV at: http://www.fco.gov.uk/servlet/Front?pagename=OpenMarket/Xcelerate/ShowPage&c=Page&cid=1007029391629&a=KArticle&aid=1148477093500%20&year=2006&month=2006-06-01&date=2006-06-09

14 June
'Making the Case for Europe: A New Agenda' - Hoon
The Europe Minister, Geoff Hoon, has spoken about the history and links between Britain and the European Union, and the need to give British citizens 'a reason to care about what the EU does'.
Full speech at: http://www.fco.gov.uk/servlet/Front?pagename=OpenMarket/Xcelerate/ShowPage&c=Page&cid=1007029391629&a=KArticle&aid=1148478654393%20&year=2006&month=2006-06-01&date=2006-06-14

15 June
Triesman Speech - Political Change in Latin America
Foreign Office Minister, Lord Triesman, gave a speech about the political change in Latin America at the Wilton Park Conference on 15 June.
Full speech at: http://www.fco.gov.uk/servlet/Front?pagename=OpenMarket/Xcelerate/ShowPage&c=Page&cid=1007029391629&a=KArticle&aid=1150455410524%20&year=2006&month=2006-06-01&date=2006-06-15

20 June
Foreign Secretary: International Arms Trade Treaty
The Foreign Secretary, Margaret Beckett, met representatives of Non-Governmental Organisations and the arms industry to receive a petition in support of the creation of an international arms trade treaty.
Further information: http://www.fco.gov.uk/servlet/Front?pagename=OpenMarket/Xcelerate/ShowPage&c=Page&cid=1007029391629&a=KArticle&aid=1150455150855%20&year=2006&month=2006-06-01&date=2006-06-20


NGO's

WTO

1 May
Lamy calls for "shared sense of urgency" in the trade negotiations
Director-General Pascal Lamy, in his introductory statement to the Trade Negotiations Committee on 1 May 2006, said that finding consensus in the negotiations "remains doable, but only if a sense of urgency--which I feel is not always shared by all--starts appearing in each and every delegation".
Full statement: http://www.wto.org/english/news_e/news06_e/tnc_dg_stat_1may06_e.htm

8 May
WTO secretariat reports further declines in both new anti-dumping investigations and new final anti-dumping measures
The WTO Secretariat reported that during the period 1 July-31 December 2005, the number of initiations of new anti-dumping investigations and the number of new measures applied continued their previously-reported downward trends, with 2005 marking the fourth consecutive year of declines in new initiations, and the second in new measures.
Further information: http://www.wto.org/english/news_e/pres06_e/pr441_e.htm

9 May
DSB establishes a panel in reference to EC's measures concerning civil aircraft
The Dispute Settlement Body established a second panel to consider additional EC and Member States measures affecting US' trade in large civil aircraft.
Full details at: http://www.wto.org/english/news_e/news06_e/dsb_9may06_e.htm

16 May
WTO makes public all official GATT documents
The WTO has decided to make public all official documents issued under the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) during the period 1947-1995.
Further information: http://www.wto.org/english/news_e/pres06_e/pr442_e.htm

16 June
Dispute Settlement - WTO issues panel report on US-EC customs dispute
The dispute refers to the alleged non-uniform manner in which the European Communities administers its laws, regulations, decisions and rulings of the kind described in Article X:1 of GATT 1994 pertaining to the classification and valuation of products for customs purposes and to requirements, restrictions or prohibitions on imports.
Full details at: http://www.wto.org/english/news_e/news06_e/315r_e.htm

30 June
Lamy: Ministers here, but will there be negotiations?
Lack of progress in discussions immediately before the weekend's deliberations on template agreements -- known as modalities -- is "sobering", Director-General Pascal Lamy told an informal meeting of the full membership on 30 June 2006.
Further information at: http://www.wto.org/english/news_e/news06_e/mod06_summary_30june_e.htm


NATO

10 May
NATO Missile Defence Feasibility study results delivered
The Feasibility Study marks nearly four years of detailed technical analysis by NATO's armaments community. It is a detailed assessment of how to defend NATO population centres, forces and territory from all types of ballistic missile threat.
Further information at: http://www.nato.int/docu/pr/2006/p06-048e.htm

8 June
Final communiqué of the Meeting of the North Atlantic Council In Defence Ministers session held in Brussels.
Full communiqué at: http://www.nato.int/docu/pr/2006/p06-064e.htm

Chairman's summary of the Meeting of the Euro-Atlantic Partnership Council in Defence Ministers session held in Brussels.
Full summary at: http://www.nato.int/docu/pr/2006/p06-066e.htm