Local view for "http://purl.org/linkedpolitics/eu/plenary/2003-09-04-Speech-4-217"
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"en.20030904.7.4-217"2
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".
Let me start by say something about the evolution of payments. I agree that this has been quite a problem in the start-up phase, but I can also inform you that the amount invoiced in 2002 was nearly EUR 41.5 million. This represents nearly seven times more than the amounts invoice in 1999 and more than three times the amount invoiced in 2001.
Although we cannot draw clear conclusions yet for the current year, the overall trend is quite positive and a similar disbursements of some EUR 40 million is expected for this year, taken as a whole.
We are now at a level of activity that corresponds reasonably well to expectations. All this is quite complex, there are so many different interests deserving protection, many historical, social and political factors in everything that relates to bananas. The Commission is well aware of the difficulties in combining the principle of equitable market access with consideration for the structural problems faced by small vulnerable economies. The Special Framework of Assistance stems from those concerns and addresses them in a tangible manner. Also it should be noted that this was not something imposed on our partners in this area but reflects thorough negotiations.
After the undeniable difficulties of the start-up phase, substantial progress can now be observed in the implementation of the scheme: I have just given these figures. Now we have reached a satisfactory rate in terms of payment. In response to the repeated suggestions by the Commission, several ACP banana suppliers are changing their strategies and seeking more financial support to fund diversification where the banana industry is no longer sustainable. It is expected that this process will continue, with the least competitive banana suppliers using the available funds exclusively for diversification and social compensation.
As far as the possible increase in imports following enlargement, which is an important discussion, is concerned, it was agreed at the Copenhagen summit that appropriate arrangements would be made in order to ensure a sufficient supply of bananas to EU consumers in conformity with WTO rules. Any increase in the banana quotas, which would be subject to negotiations in the WTO framework, would take account of the interests of these producers.
The Commission is well aware of its obligations resulting from the Cotonou Agreement including those relating to ensuring the continuing outlet for ACP bananas on the European market and we are of course committed to do anything we can to respect this."@en1
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