Saeima ir pieņēmusi un Valsts prezidents izsludina šādu likumu: Par Partnerības un sadarbības nolīgumu starp Eiropas Savienību un tās dalībvalstīm, no vienas puses, un Singapūras Republiku, no otras p

COOPERATION AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE EUROPEAN UNION

ITS MEMBER STATES, OF THE ONE PART,

THE REPUBLIC OF SINGAPORE, OF THE OTHER PART THE EUROPEAN UNION, hereinafter referred to as 'the Union',

THE KINGDOM OF BELGIUM, THE REPUBLIC OF BULGARIA, THE CZECH REPUBLIC, THE KINGDOM OF DENMARK, THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF GERMANY THE REPUBLIC OF ESTONIA, IRELAND, THE HELLENIC REPUBLIC, THE KINGDOM OF SPAIN, THE FRENCH REPUBLIC, THE REPUBLIC OF CROATIA, THE ITALIAN REPUBLIC, THE REPUBLIC OF CYPRUS, THE REPUBLIC OF LATVIA, THE REPUBLIC OF LITHUANIA, THE GRAND DUCHY OF LUXEMBOURG, HUNGARY, THE REPUBLIC OF MALTA, THE KINGDOM OF THE NETHERLANDS, THE REPUBLIC OF AUSTRIA, THE REPUBLIC OF POLAND, THE PORTUGUESE REPUBLIC, ROMANIA, THE REPUBLIC OF SLOVENIA, THE SLOVAK REPUBLIC, THE REPUBLIC OF FINLAND, THE KINGDOM OF SWEDEN, THE UNITED KINGDOM OF GREAT BRITAIN

NORTHERN IRELAND, Contracting Parties to the Treaty on European Union

the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, hereinafter referred to as the 'Member States', of the one part,

THE REPUBLIC OF SINGAPORE, of the other part, hereinafter jointly referred to as 'the Parties', CONSIDERING the traditional links of friendship between the Parties

the close historical, political

economic ties which unite them; WHEREAS the Parties attach particular importance to the comprehensive nature of their mutual relationship; WHEREAS the Parties consider that this Agreement forms part of a wider

coherent relationship between them through agreements to which both sides are parties together; REAFFIRMING the attachment of the Parties to the respect for democratic principles

human rights

fundamental freedoms as laid down in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights

other applicable international human rights instruments to which the Parties are Contracting Parties; REAFFIRMING their attachment to the principles of the rule of law

of good governance,

their desire to promote economic

social progress for their peoples, taking into account the principles of sustainable development

the need to protect the environment; REAFFIRMING their desire to enhance cooperation on international stability, justice

security as a basic precondition for promoting sustainable social

economic development, the eradication of poverty

the achievement of the United Nations (UN) Millennium Development Goals; EXPRESSING their full commitment to fighting all forms of terrorism

to establishing effective international instruments to ensure its eradication in accordance with relevant United Nations Security Council (UNSC) instruments, particularly UNSC Resolution 1373; WHEREAS the Union adopted a comprehensive Plan of Action on Combating Terrorism in 2001, updated it in 2004

took a wide range of measures as a consequence; in the wake of the Madrid attacks, the European Council issued a major Declaration on Combating Terrorism on 25 March 2004; the Union also adopted a Counter-Terrorism Strategy in December 2005; REAFFIRMING that the most serious crimes of concern to the international community as a whole must not go unpunished

that their effective prosecution must be ensured by taking measures at the national level

by enhancing international collaboration; CONSIDERING that the fair

independent functioning of the International Criminal Court constitutes an important development for peace

international justice; WHEREAS the European Council identified the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction

their means of delivery as a major threat to international security,

adopted on 12 December 2003 a Strategy against Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction; the Council of the European Union had already adopted, on 17 November 2003, a Union policy of mainstreaming non-proliferation policies into the Union's relations with third countries; the adoption by consensus of UNSC Resolution 1540 underlines the commitment of the whole international community to fight against proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMD)

their means of delivery. This commitment of the international community was reiterated by the adoption of UNSC Resolution 1673

UNSC Resolution 1810; WHEREAS the European Council expressed the view that Small Arms

Light Weapons (SALW) constitute a growing threat to peace, security

development

adopted on 16 December 2005 a Strategy to combat illicit accumulation

trafficking of SALW

their ammunition. In this Strategy, the European Council emphasised the need to ensure a comprehensive

consistent approach to security

development policy; RECOGNISING the importance of the Cooperation Agreement of 7 March 1980 between the European Economic Community

Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore

Thailand, member countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)

its subsequent accession protocols; RECOGNISING the importance of strengthening the existing relationship between the Parties with a view to enhancing cooperation between them,

their common will to consolidate, deepen

diversify their relations in areas of mutual interest on the basis of equality, respect for the natural environment

mutual benefit; CONFIRMING their desire to enhance, in full concord with activities undertaken in a regional framework, the cooperation between the Union

the Republic of Singapore, based on shared values

mutual benefit; CONFIRMING their desire to enhance understanding between Asia

Europe on the basis of equality, respect for one another's cultural

political norms,

acceptance of divergent views; CONFIRMING their desire to strengthen trade relations through the conclusion of a Free Trade Agreement; NOTING that the provisions of this Agreement that fall within the scope of Part Three, Title V of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union bind the United Kingdom

Ireland as separate Contracting Parties,

not as part of the Union, unless the Union together with the United Kingdom

/or Ireland have jointly notified Singapore that the United Kingdom

/or Ireland is bound as part of the Union in accordance with Protocol No 21 on the position of the United Kingdom

Ireland in respect of the area of freedom, security

justice annexed to the Treaty on European Union

the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union. If the United Kingdom

/or Ireland ceases to be bound as part of the Union in accordance with Article 4a of Protocol No. 21, the Union together with the United Kingdom

/or Ireland shall immediately inform Singapore of any change in their position in which case they shall remain bound by the provisions of this Agreement in their own right. The same applies to Denmark in accordance with Protocol No 22 on the position of Denmark annexed to those Treaties, HAVE AGREED AS FOLLOWS: TITLE I NATURE

SCOPE ARTICLE 1 General Principles 1. Respect for democratic principles, the rule of law

fundamental human rights, as laid down in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights

other applicable international human rights instruments to which the Parties are Contracting Parties, underpins the internal

international policies of the Parties

constitutes an essential element of this Agreement.

1. The Parties confirm their shared values as expressed in the Charter of the United Nations (UN Charter).
2. The Parties confirm their commitment to promoting sustainable development, to cooperating to address the challenges of climate change as well as globalisation

to contributing to reaching the Millennium Development Goals. 4. The Parties reaffirm their attachment to the principles of good governance, the rule of law including the independence of the judiciary,

the fight against corruption. 5. The Parties shall cooperate under this Agreement in a manner in accordance with their respective domestic laws, rules

regulations. ARTICLE 2 Aims of Cooperation With a view to strengthening their bilateral relationship, the Parties undertake to hold a comprehensive dialogue

promote further cooperation between them on sectors of mutual interest. Their efforts will in particular be aimed at: (a) establishing cooperation in all relevant regional

international fora

organisations; (b) establishing cooperation on combating terrorism

transnational crimes; (

1. c)establishing cooperation on combating the most serious crimes of international concern; (
2. d)establishing cooperation on countering the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, their means of delivery

the illegal stockpiling of

illicit trade in small arms

light weapons in all its aspects; (e) securing the conditions for

promoting the increase

development of trade between the Parties to their mutual advantage; (f) establishing cooperation in all trade

investment-related areas of mutual interest, in order to facilitate trade

investment flows

to prevent

remove obstacles to trade

investment, in a manner which is consistent with

complementary to ongoing

future regional EU-ASEAN initiatives; (g) establishing cooperation in the area of justice, freedom

security, including the rule of law

legal cooperation, data protection, migration, smuggling

trafficking in human beings, combating transnational organised crime, money laundering

illicit drugs; (h) establishing cooperation in all other sectors of mutual interest, notably customs, macro-economic policy

financial institutions, in the tax area, industrial policy

small

medium enterprises, information society, science

technology, energy, transport, education

culture, environment

natural resources, health

statistics; (i) enhancing existing

encouraging new participation of the Republic of Singapore within the Union's Asia-wide cooperation programmes; (j) raising the roles

profiles of the Parties in each other's regions; (k) establishing a regular dialogue with the aim of enhancing the mutual understanding of each other's societies

of fostering awareness of different cultural, religious

societal views in both Asia

Europe. TITLE II BILATERAL, REGIONAL

INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION ARTICLE 3 Cooperation in Regional

International Organisations 1. The Parties undertake to exchange views

cooperate within the framework of regional

international fora

organisations such as the UN, ASEAN-EU dialogue, ASEAN Regional Forum, the Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM),

the World Trade Organization (WTO), when the Parties agree that such exchange

cooperation are of mutual benefit. 2. The Parties also agree to promote cooperation in these fields between think-tanks, academics, non-governmental organisations

the media through the organisation of seminars, conferences

other related activities, provided that such cooperation is based on mutual consent. ARTICLE 4 Regional

Bilateral Cooperation 1. For each sector of dialogue

cooperation under this Agreement,

while giving due emphasis to matters under bilateral cooperation, both sides will agree to carry out the related activities at bilateral or regional level or through a combination of both frameworks. In choosing the appropriate framework, the Parties will seek to maximise the impact on

reinforce the involvement of EU

ASEAN partners, while making the best possible use of available resources, taking account of the political

institutional feasibility,

ensuring coherence with other activities involving EU

ASEAN partners. 2. The Parties may, as appropriate, decide to extend financial support to cooperation activities in the areas covered by this Agreement or in relation to it, in accordance with their respective financial procedures

resources. This cooperation may in particular include organisation of training schemes, workshops

seminars, exchanges of experts, studies,

other actions agreed by the Parties. TITLE III COOPERATION ON INTERNATIONAL STABILITY, JUSTICE, SECURITY

DEVELOPMENT ARTICLE 5 Cooperation in Combating Terrorism The Parties reaffirm the importance of the fight against terrorism, in accordance with the rule of law

their respective obligations under the UN Charter, relevant UNSC resolutions

international law, including applicable human rights, refugee

international humanitarian law. Within this framework

taking into account the UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy, contained in UN General Assembly Resolution No. 60/288 of 8 September 2006 as well as the Joint EU-ASEAN Declaration of 28 January 2003 on cooperation to combat terrorism, the Parties agree to cooperate in the prevention

suppression of terrorism, in particular, as follows: (a) in the framework of the full implementation of UNSC Resolution 1373

other applicable UN resolutions, international conventions

instruments; (b) by exchanging information on terrorist groups

their support networks in accordance with applicable international

national law; (c) by exchanging views on means

methods used to counter terrorism, including in technical fields

training,

by exchange of experiences in respect of terrorism prevention; (d) by cooperating, so as to deepen the international consensus on the fight against terrorism

its normative framework

by working towards an agreement on the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism as soon as possible so as to complement the existing UN counter-terrorism instruments; (

1. e)by promoting cooperation among UN Member States to effectively implement the UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy by all appropriate means; (
2. f)by exchanging best practices in the area of protection of human rights in the fight against terrorism. The Parties agree that cooperation under this Article will be as permitted under their respective domestic laws, rules

regulations. ARTICLE 6 Implementation of International Obligations for the Purpose of Punishing Serious Crimes of International Concern 1. The Parties reaffirm that the most serious crimes of concern to the international community as a whole must not go unpunished

that their effective prosecution must be ensured by taking measures at the national level

in accordance with their respective existing international obligations, through cooperation with international tribunals set up for those purposes. 2. The Parties consider that the establishment

effective functioning of such tribunals constitute an important development for international peace

justice. The Parties agree to cooperate to share experiences

technical expertise on the legal adjustments required to implement

fulfil their respective international obligations. 3. The Parties acknowledge the importance of the International Criminal Court in the context of combating impunity

agree to pursue a dialogue on its fair

independent functioning. ARTICLE 7 Countering the Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction 1. The Parties consider that the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction

their means of delivery, both to state

non-state actors, represents one of the most serious threats to international stability

security. 2. The Parties therefore agree to cooperate

to contribute to countering the proliferation of WMD

their means of delivery through full compliance with

national implementation of their existing obligations under international disarmament

non-proliferation treaties

agreements

other applicable UN resolutions

international instruments to which the Parties are Contracting Parties. The Parties agree that this provision constitutes an essential element of this Agreement. 3. The Parties furthermore agree to cooperate

to contribute to countering the proliferation of WMD

their means of delivery by: (a) each Party taking, as appropriate, steps, to sign, ratify, or accede to,

fully implement all other international instruments relevant to the fight against the proliferation of WMD;

(b) the establishment of an effective system of national export controls, controlling the export

transit of WMD-related goods, including a WMD end-use control on dual use goods/technologies

with effective means of legal or administrative enforcement, including effective penalties

preventive measures against breaches of export controls. 4. As part of the cooperation, the Parties agree to have a regular dialogue on issues relating to countering the proliferation of WMD. Such dialogue may take place on a regional basis. ARTICLE 8 Small Arms

Light Weapons 1. The Parties recognise that the illicit manufacture, transfer

circulation of SALW, including their ammunition,

their excessive accumulation

uncontrolled spread, continue to pose a serious threat to peace

international security. 2. The Parties agree to observe

fully implement their respective obligations to deal with the illicit trade in SALW, including their ammunition, under international agreements to which the Parties are Contracting Parties

under relevant UNSC resolutions, as well as their commitments within the framework of other international instruments applicable in this area, such as the UN Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat

Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms

Light Weapons in All Its Aspects. 3. The Parties undertake to cooperate

to ensure coordination, complementarity

synergy in their efforts, in accordance with their international obligations, to deal with the illicit trade in SALW, including their ammunition, at global, regional, sub-regional

national levels

agree to establish regular dialogue that will accompany

consolidate this undertaking. TITLE IV COOPERATION ON TRADE

INVESTMENT ISSUES ARTICLE 9 General Principles 1. The Parties shall engage in a bilateral dialogue on trade

investment issues with a view to strengthening

advancing the multilateral trading system

bilateral trade between the Parties. 2. To this end, the Parties shall give effect to their mutual cooperation in trade

investment including through the Free Trade Agreement. The aforementioned agreement shall constitute a specific agreement giving effect to the trade provisions of this Agreement

shall be an integral part of the overall bilateral relations

the common institutional framework, as referred to in Article 43

investment relations by addressing, among other issues, the following areas referred to in Article 10 to Article 16. ARTICLE 10 Sanitary

Phytosanitary (SPS) Issues The Parties may discuss

exchange information on legislation, certification

inspection procedures, especially within the framework of the Agreement on the Application of Sanitary

Phytosanitary Measures contained in Annex 1A of the Marrakesh Agreement Establishing the World Trade Organization done at Marrakesh on 15 April 1994. Cooperation may include the following: (a) addressing bilateral sanitary

phytosanitary problems that a Party raises; (b) exchanging information on sanitary

phytosanitary matters; (c) promoting the use of international standards where they exist;

(d) establishing a mechanism for dialogue on best practices related to standards, testing

certification procedures,

evaluating regional or national standards for their equivalence. ARTICLE 11 Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Issues The Parties shall promote the use of international standards

cooperate

exchange information on standards, conformity assessment procedures

technical regulations, especially within the framework of the WTO Agreement on Technical Barriers to Trade. ARTICLE 12 Customs 1. The Parties shall share their experience in

examine possibilities for simplifying import, export

other customs procedures, ensuring the transparency of customs

trade regulations, developing customs cooperation

effective assistance mechanisms, to seek convergence of views

joint action in the context of relevant international initiatives including trade facilitation. 2. The Parties will pay special attention to enhancing the security

safety of international trade, ensuring a balanced approach between trade facilitation

the fight against fraud

irregularities. ARTICLE 13 Investment The Parties may encourage the development of an attractive

stable environment for reciprocal investment through a consistent dialogue aimed at enhancing understanding

cooperation on investment issues, exploring administrative mechanisms to facilitate investment flows,

promoting stable, transparent, open

non-discriminatory rules for investors. ARTICLE 14 Competition Policy The Parties may promote the effective establishment

application of competition rules

the dissemination of information in order to foster transparency

legal certainty for enterprises operating in each other's markets. ARTICLE 15 Services The Parties may establish a consistent dialogue notably aimed at exchanging information on their respective regulatory environments, promoting access to each other's markets, promoting access to sources of capital

technology, promoting trade in services between both regions

in third countries' markets. ARTICLE 16 Intellectual Property Protection The Parties attach importance to intellectual property rights1, recognising their growing importance for the creation of innovative products, services

technologies in their respective countries,

agree to continue to cooperate

to exchange non-confidential information on mutually agreed activities

projects, with a view to promoting, protecting

enforcing these rights, including their effective

efficient customs enforcement. TITLE V COOPERATION IN THE AREA OF JUSTICE, FREEDOM

SECURITY ARTICLE 17 Rule of Law

Legal Cooperation 1. In their cooperation in the area of justice, freedom

security, the Parties shall attach particular importance to the promotion of the rule of law,

the reinforcement of institutions at all levels in the areas of law enforcement

the administration of justice in particular. 2. Cooperation between the Parties will also include mutual exchange of information concerning legal systems

legislation. ARTICLE 18 Data Protection 1. The Parties agree to establish a dialogue in order to improve the protection of personal data, with reference to best international principles

practices such as that contained in the UN Guidelines for the Regulation of Computerized Personal Data Files (UN General Assembly Resolution No. 45/95 of 14 December 1990). 2. Cooperation on protection of personal data may include, inter alia, exchange of information

expertise. ARTICLE 19 Migration

1. The Parties reaffirm the importance of joint management of migration flows between their territories.
2. The Parties shall establish a mechanism for dialogue on migration-related issues, including legal

illegal migration, smuggling

trafficking in human beings

issues related to international protection for those in need. Any such dialogue shall be based upon a mutually agreed agenda, terms

issues. 3. Each Party may, as it deems appropriate, include migration concerns in its strategies for economic

social development from its perspective as a country of origin, transit

/or destination of migrants. 4. Cooperation between the Parties shall be based on a specific needs assessment of the Parties, conducted in mutual consultation between the Parties. The Parties agree that such cooperation will be as permitted under Union

domestic laws, rules, regulations

policies. Such cooperation may, in particular, focus on: (

1. a)the root causes of migration; (
2. b)the development

implementation of each Party's obligations under international law on migration matters including on international protection for those in need; (c) admission rules, as well as the rights

status of persons admitted, fair treatment, education, training,

integration of lawfully residing non-nationals, measures against racism

xenophobia; (d) the establishment of an effective

preventive policy against illegal immigration, smuggling of migrants

trafficking in human beings, including ways to combat networks of smugglers

traffickers

protect the victims of such trafficking; (e) the return, under humane

dignified conditions, of persons residing illegally including the promotion of their voluntary return; (f) issues identified as being of mutual interest in the field of visas

security of travel documents; (g) issues identified as being of mutual interest in the field of border controls. 5. Within the framework of the cooperation to prevent

control illegal immigration, the Parties further agree that: (a) the Republic of Singapore shall readmit any of its nationals illegally present on the territory of a Member State, upon request by the latter

without further formalities once nationality has been established;

(b) each Member State shall readmit any of its nationals illegally present on the territory of the Republic of Singapore, upon request by the latter

without further formalities once nationality has been established. The Member States

the Republic of Singapore will provide their nationals with appropriate identity documents for such purposes. Where the person to be readmitted does not possess any documents or other proof of his or her nationality, the competent diplomatic

consular representations of the Party to which the person is to be readmitted (being either the Member State concerned or the Republic of Singapore) shall, upon request by the other Party (being either the Republic of Singapore or the Member State concerned), interview the person in order to establish his or her nationality 6. The Parties agree to negotiate, upon request, with a view to concluding an agreement between the Union

the Republic of Singapore regulating the readmission of nationals of the Republic of Singapore

of the Member States, nationals of other countries

stateless persons. ARTICLE 20 Combating Organised Crime The Parties agree to cooperate on combating organised crime as well as corruption. Such cooperation aims in particular at implementing

promoting, where applicable, relevant international standards

instruments, such as the UN Convention against Transnational Organized Crime

the UN Convention against Corruption. ARTICLE 21 Cooperation in Combating Money Laundering

Terrorist Financing 1. The Parties agree on the need to work towards

to cooperate on preventing the use of their financial systems to launder the proceeds of criminal activities, in accordance with relevant Financial Action Task Force (FATF) recommendations. 2. The Parties will exchange expertise in areas such as the development

implementation of regulations

the efficient functioning of suitable standards

mechanisms. 3. In particular, cooperation shall allow, to the greatest possible extent, exchanges of relevant information

expertise on the adoption of appropriate standards to combat money laundering

the financing of terrorism equivalent to those adopted by the international bodies active in this area, such as the FATF. ARTICLE 22 Cooperation against Illicit Drugs 1. The Parties shall cooperate to ensure a balanced approach through effective coordination between the competent authorities including, as appropriate, from the health, justice, interior

customs sectors, with the aim of reducing the supply, trafficking

demand of illicit drugs

the adverse consequences of drug abuse for individuals

society as a whole. The Parties will also work together to ensure a more effective prevention of diversion of drug precursors. 2. The Parties shall agree on means of cooperation to attain these objectives. Actions shall be based on commonly agreed principles along the lines of the relevant international conventions, the Political Declaration

the Special Declaration on the guiding principles of drug demand reduction, approved by the UN General Assembly Special Session on Drugs in June 1998

the Political Declaration

Plan of Action on International Cooperation towards an Integrated

Balanced Strategy to Counter the World Drug Problem adopted at the 52nd session of the UN Commission on Narcotic Drugs in March

2. The Parties will exchange expertise in areas such as the drafting of national legislation

policies, the establishment of national institutions

information centres, training of personnel, drug-related research,

the prevention of diversion of precursors used for the illicit manufacture of narcotic drugs

psychotropic substances. TITLE VI COOPERATION IN OTHER SECTORS ARTICLE 23 Cooperation on Human Rights 1. The Parties agree to cooperate, where mutually agreed upon, in the promotion

effective protection of human rights, including the implementation of applicable international human rights instruments to which the Parties are Contracting Parties. 2. Such cooperation may include, inter alia: (a) human rights promotion

education; (b) strengthening appropriate national

regional human rights-related institutions; (

1. c)the establishment of a meaningful, broad-based human rights dialogue; (
2. d)strengthening of cooperation within the human rights-related institutions of the UN. ARTICLE 24 Cooperation on Financial Services The Parties shall endeavour to foster cooperation on financial services on issues of mutual interest within the framework of their respective programmes

legislation

, where applicable, according to the relevant provisions of the Free Trade Agreement referred to in Article 9

supervisors of the Union

the Republic of Singapore on financial regulatory

supervisory matters. The financial regulators

supervisors will consult each other to determine the most appropriate means for cooperation. ARTICLE 25 Economic Policy Dialogue 1. The Parties agree to cooperate on promoting the exchange of information on their respective economic trends

policies,

the sharing of experiences with the coordination of economic policies in the context of regional economic cooperation

integration. 2. The Parties endeavour to deepen the dialogue between their authorities on economic matters which, as agreed by the Parties, may include areas such as monetary policy, fiscal (including tax) policy, public finance,

macroeconomic stabilisation

external debt. ARTICLE 26 Cooperation in the Tax Area 1. With a view to strengthening

developing economic activities while taking into account the need to develop an appropriate regulatory framework, the Parties recognise

commit themselves to implement, as set out in paragraphs 2

3, the principles of good governance in the tax area. 2. To that effect, in accordance with their respective competencies, the Parties acknowledge the importance of countering mutually agreed harmful tax practices, will improve international cooperation in the tax area aimed at countering tax evasion

will implement the internationally agreed Standard for transparency

exchange of information for tax purposes as spelled out in the 2008 OECD Model Tax Convention on Income

on Capital, with a view to enabling the effective application of their respective tax rules. 3. The Parties agree that the implementation of these principles takes place notably within the framework of existing or future bilateral tax agreements between the Republic of Singapore

the Member States. ARTICLE 27 Industrial Policy

SME Cooperation 1. The Parties, taking into account their respective economic policies

objectives, agree to foster industrial policy cooperation in all fields deemed suitable by them, in particular with a view to improving the competitiveness of small

medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). 2. Such cooperation shall consist of: (a) exchanging information

experience on creating framework conditions for SMEs to improve their competitiveness; (b) promoting corporate social responsibility

accountability

encouraging responsible business practices, including sustainable consumption

production. This cooperation shall be complemented by a consumer perspective, such as on product information

the consumer's role in the market; (c) promoting contacts between economic operators, encouraging joint investments

establishing joint ventures

information networks notably through existing Union horizontal programmes, stimulating in particular transfers of soft

hard technology between partners;

(d) facilitating access to finance, providing information

stimulating innovation.

1. The Parties will encourage the reinforcement of the relations between the private sectors of both Parties in new or existing fora, including mechanisms aimed at assisting both sides in promoting the internationalisation of SMEs. ARTICLE 28 Information Society
2. Recognising that information

communication technologies (ICT) are key elements of modern life

are of vital importance to economic

social development, the Parties endeavour to coordinate their respective policies in this field with a view to promoting economic development. 2. Cooperation in this area shall focus in particular on: (a) participation in the comprehensive regional dialogue on the different aspects of the information society, in particular electronic communications policies

regulatory best practices in areas including but not limited to the licensing of telecommunication services; the treatment of new information communication services such as Voice over Internet Protocol services; the elimination of spam; the management of dominant carrier conduct,

increasing the transparency

efficiency of the regulatory authority; (b) interconnection

interoperability of the Parties' networks

services; (c) standardisation

dissemination of new information

communications technologies; (

1. d)promotion of research cooperation between the Parties in the area of ICT; (
2. e)cooperation on joint research projects in the area of ICT; (
3. f)security aspects of information society, as mutually agreed upon;

(g) conformity assessment of telecommunications (including radio) equipment. ARTICLE 29 Cooperation in the Audiovisual

Media Fields The Parties agree to promote cooperation in the audiovisual

media fields in general. Cooperation activities will include, but not be limited to: (a) exchange of views on audiovisual

media policy; (

1. b)joint organisation of events of mutual interest; (
2. c)joint training activities;

(d) facilitating co-productions,

initiating discussions on audiovisual co-production agreements. ARTICLE 30 Scientific

Technological Cooperation 1. The Parties shall encourage, develop

facilitate cooperation in the field of science, technology

innovation in areas of mutual interest, in accordance with the laws

regulations of both Parties. 2. The aims of such cooperation shall be to: (a) encourage exchange of information on science, technology

innovation, on policies

programmes; (b) promote enduring relations between the Parties' scientific communities, research centres, universities

industries; (c) promote training

mobility of researchers

students of higher education institutions. 3. Subject to discussion between the Parties,

in consultation with the research funding agencies of each country, cooperation may take the form of joint research projects

/or exchanges, meetings, workshops

training of scientists

students of higher education institutions through international mobility schemes providing for the maximum dissemination of the results of research. 4. In this cooperation, the Parties shall promote the participation of their respective higher education institutions, research centres

productive sectors, including SMEs. 5. The Parties agree to make efforts to increase awareness about possibilities for science

technological cooperation offered by their respective programmes. ARTICLE 31 Energy 1. The Parties endeavour to enhance cooperation in the energy sector with a view to: (a) diversifying energy supplies

developing new

renewable forms of energy on a commercial basis; (

1. b)achieving rational use of energy, notably by promoting demand-side management; (
2. c)fostering the transfer of technology aimed at efficient energy use; (
3. d)combating climate change, including through carbon pricing; (
4. e)enhancing capacity building, including possible training

facilitation of investment in the field of energy based on transparent, non-discriminatory

market-compatible rules; (f) promoting competition in the energy market. 2. To these ends, the Parties endeavour to promote contacts between the relevant energy planning entities

conduct of joint research between research institutes

universities, particularly in the framework of relevant regional fora. Both sides will further explore possibilities for enhanced cooperation in nuclear safety

security within their existing legal frameworks

policies. With reference to Article 34

the conclusions of the World Summit on Sustainable Development (WSSD), which took place in Johannesburg in 2002, the Parties may endeavour to address the links between affordable access to energy services

sustainable development. These activities may be promoted in cooperation with the European Union Energy Initiative, launched at the WSSD. ARTICLE 32 Transport 1. The Parties agree to further reinforce, by mutual consent, their cooperation in all relevant areas of transport policy with a view to improving the movement of goods

passengers, promoting safety

security, combating piracy

armed robbery against ships, promoting environmental protection

high operating standards,

increasing the efficiency of their transport systems. The Parties recall the agreement under Article 1

reaffirm that cooperation in all relevant areas of transport will be subject to their respective domestic laws, rules

regulations. 2. Cooperation between the Parties under paragraph 1 shall aim to promote: (a) exchange of information on their respective transport policies, especially regarding urban transport

the interconnection

interoperability of multimodal transport networks, as well as the management of railways, ports

airports; (b) the use of global satellite navigation systems, with focus on regulatory, industrial

market development issues of mutual interest; (c) a dialogue in the field of air transport aiming at an enhanced cooperation in matters of aviation policy

with a view to taking joint actions in the field of air transport services through, inter alia, the negotiation

implementation of agreements. The Parties will further develop their relations

, when appropriate, explore the establishment of a future comprehensive air services agreement. The Parties will also, whenever mutually beneficial, enhance technical

regulatory cooperation in areas such as aviation safety, aviation security, air traffic management including greening air traffic management, application of competition law

economic regulation of the air industry, with a view to supporting regulatory convergence

the removal of obstacles to doing business,

enhance dialogue on aviation environmental issues such as the use of market-based instruments in combating global warming including through emissions trading. On this basis, the Parties will explore the possible scope for even closer cooperation in the area of civil aviation; (d) a dialogue in the field of maritime transport services aiming at unrestricted access to the international maritime markets

trades on a commercial

non-discriminatory basis,

with a view to supporting commitments for the phasing out of existing cargo reservation schemes, abstention from introducing cargo sharing clauses, establishment within maritime transport services including auxiliary services, national treatment regarding access to auxiliary services

port services for vessels flying the flag of the other Party or operated by nationals or companies of the other Party

the right to arrange door-to-door transport services;

(e) the implementation of security, safety

pollution prevention standards, notably as regards maritime transport

aviation, in line with the relevant international conventions, to which the Parties are signatories, including cooperation in the appropriate international fora aiming at ensuring better enforcement of international regulations. ARTICLE 33 Education

Culture 1. The Parties agree to promote education

cultural cooperation that duly respects their diversity, in order to increase mutual understanding

knowledge of their respective cultures. 2. The Parties endeavour to take appropriate measures to promote cultural exchanges

carry out joint initiatives in various cultural spheres including the joint organisation of cultural events. In this regard, the Parties also agree to continue supporting the activities of the Asia-Europe Foundation. 3. The Parties agree to consult

cooperate in the relevant international fora, such as the UN Educational Scientific

Cultural Organization, in order to pursue common objectives

promote cultural diversity. 4. The Parties shall furthermore place emphasis on measures designed to create permanent links between their respective specialist agencies

to encourage exchange of information, know-how, students, experts, youth

youth workers

technical resources, taking advantage of the facilities offered by the Union's programmes in Southeast Asia in the area of education

culture as well as the experience that both Parties have acquired in this area. 5. The Parties shall encourage greater exchanges

cooperation between their educational institutions in order to promote mutual understanding, knowledge

appreciation of each other's cultures, economies

social systems. In particular, the Parties shall endeavour to facilitate the mobility of students

scholars within the framework of the Erasmus Mundus programme or other similar programmes. ARTICLE 34 Environment

Natural Resources 1. The Parties agree on the need to conserve

manage in a sustainable manner natural resources

biological diversity as a basis for the development of current

future generations. 2. The implementation of the outcome of the UN Conference on Environment

Development of 1992, the WSSD of 2002

the UN Conference on Sustainable Development of 2012 shall be taken into account in all activities undertaken by the Parties under this Agreement. 3. The Parties endeavour to continue their cooperation on environmental protection, including through the sharing of best practices in areas such as: (a) climate change

energy efficiency; (b) environmental

clean technologies particularly those that are safe

sustainable; (c) capacity building in negotiating

implementing multilateral environment agreements; (d) coastal

marine environment; (e) addressing illegal logging

the associated trade,

promoting sustainable forest management. ARTICLE 35 Employment

Social Affairs 1. The Parties agree to enhance cooperation in the field of employment

social affairs, including cooperation on regional

social cohesion, health

safety at the workplace, gender equality, decent work

social dialogue, with a view to strengthening the social dimension of globalisation. 2. The Parties reaffirm the need to support the process of globalisation which is beneficial to all

to promote full

productive employment

decent work as a key element of sustainable development

poverty reduction, as endorsed by the UN General Assembly Resolution No. 60/1 of 24 October 2005

the Ministerial Declaration of high-level segment of the substantive session of 2006 of the Economic

Social Council (UN Economic

Social Council E/2006/L.8 of 5 July 2006)

as laid down in the 2008 International Labour Organization (ILO) Declaration on Social Justice for a Fair Globalization. The Parties shall take into account the respective characteristics

diverse nature of their economic

social situations. 3. In accordance with their obligations as members of the ILO

with the ILO Declaration on Fundamental Principles

Rights at Work

its Follow-up adopted by the International Labour Conference at its 86th Session in 1998, the Parties commit to respect, promote

effectively implement the principles concerning the fundamental rights at work, namely: (a) freedom of association

the effective recognition of the right to collective bargaining; (

1. b)the elimination of all forms of forced or compulsory labour; (
2. c)the effective abolition of child labour;

(d) the elimination of discrimination in respect of employment

occupation. The Parties reaffirm their commitment to effectively implementing the ILO Conventions that the Republic of Singapore

the Member States have ratified respectively. The Parties will make continued

sustained efforts towards ratifying

effectively implementing the fundamental ILO conventions,

will exchange information in this regard. The Parties will also consider the ratification

effective implementation of other ILO conventions, taking into account domestic circumstances. The Parties will exchange information in this regard. 4. The Parties may initiate cooperative activities of mutual benefit which may include, inter alia, specific programmes

projects, as mutually agreed, as well as dialogue, cooperation

initiatives on topics of common interest at bilateral or multilateral level, such as ASEM, ASEAN-EU

the ILO. ARTICLE 36 Health 1. The Parties agree to cooperate in the health sector with a view to improving health conditions covering, inter alia, the areas of major communicable diseases such as HIV/AIDS, avian influenza,

other influenzas of human pandemic potential

major non-communicable diseases

their risk factors, including through exchange of information

collaboration in early detection, prevention

control, as well as through international health agreements. 2. Subject to available resources, cooperation may take place through: (a) projects on epidemiology of major communicable

non-communicable diseases; (b) exchanges, fellowships

training programmes; (c) programmes

projects to improve health services

health conditions; (d) information sharing

scientific collaboration in drug regulation

medical device regulation;

(e) promoting full

timely implementation of international agreements on health, such as the International Health Regulations

the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control. ARTICLE 37 Statistics The Parties shall endeavour to promote, in accordance with existing statistical cooperation activities between the Union

ASEAN, the harmonisation of statistical methods

practices including the gathering

dissemination of statistics, thus enabling them to use, on a mutually acceptable basis, statistics on trade in goods

services, foreign direct investment

, more generally, on any other area covered by this Agreement which lends itself to statistical data collection, processing, analysis

dissemination. ARTICLE 38 Civil society The Parties recognise the potential contribution of organised civil society in the dialogue

cooperation process under this Agreement

endeavour to encourage dialogue with organised civil society. TITLE VII MEANS OF COOPERATION ARTICLE 39 Resources for Cooperation 1. The Parties agree to make available the appropriate resources, including financial means, insofar as their respective resources

regulations allow, in order to fulfil the cooperation objectives set out in this Agreement. 2. The Parties shall encourage the European Investment Bank to continue its operations in the Republic of Singapore, in accordance with its procedures

financing criteria. ARTICLE 40 Cooperation in the Development of Third Countries 1. The Parties agree to exchange information on their development assistance policies with a view to establishing a regular dialogue on the objectives of these policies

on their respective development aid programmes in third countries. 2. The Parties shall also promote joint actions aimed at providing technical assistance

promoting human resource development in the less developed countries in Southeast Asia

beyond. TITLE VIII INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK ARTICLE 41 Joint Committee 1. The Parties agree to establish under this Agreement a Joint Committee, composed of representatives of both sides at an appropriate high level, the tasks of which shall be to: (a) ensure the proper functioning

implementation of this Agreement; (

1. b)set priorities in relation to the aims of this Agreement; (
2. c)make recommendations for promoting the objectives of this Agreement. 2. The Joint Committee shall normally meet at least every two years in Singapore

Brussels alternately, on a date to be fixed by mutual agreement. The Joint Committee shall be co-chaired by a representative from each side. The agenda for meetings of the Joint Committee shall be determined by agreement between the Parties. Extraordinary meetings of the Joint Committee may also be convened by agreement between the Parties.

1. The Joint Committee may set up specialised sub-committees in order to assist it in the performance of its tasks. These sub-committees shall make detailed reports of their activities to the Joint Committee at each of its meetings.
2. The Joint Committee shall, in accordance with this Article, adopt its own rules of procedure

shall carry out its tasks by consensus. The Joint Committee shall, in its rules of procedure, determine modalities for consultations such as those foreseen in Article 44,

endeavour to agree on a common working language. 5. The Joint Committee shall, where mutually agreed

where appropriate, discuss the functioning

implementation of any specific agreement, as referred to in Article 43

the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, neither this Agreement nor action taken thereunder shall in any way affect the powers of the Member States to undertake bilateral cooperation activities with the Republic of Singapore or to conclude, where appropriate, new partnership

cooperation agreements with the Republic of Singapore.

1. This Agreement shall not affect the application or implementation of commitments undertaken by the respective Parties in relations with third parties.
2. Notwithstanding Article 9

shall form part of a common institutional framework. ARTICLE 44 Non-execution of the Agreement 1. If either Party considers that the other Party has failed to fulfil any of its obligations under this Agreement it may take appropriate measures. Before doing so, except in cases of special urgency, that Party shall seek

the other Party shall agree to hold consultations with a view to reaching a mutually satisfactory solution to the matter. Such consultations may take place under the auspices of the Joint Committee, referred to in Article 41, which may settle the matter referred to it by means of recommendation or in any other manner mutually acceptable to the Parties.

1. In cases of special urgency, the intended appropriate measure to be taken shall be notified immediately to the other Party. At the request of the other Party, consultations shall be held for a maximum period of 15 days with a view to seeking a mutually satisfactory solution to the matter. After this period, an appropriate measure may apply.
2. In the selection of appropriate measures, priority must be given to those which least disturb the functioning of this Agreement or any specific agreement. These measures shall be notified immediately to the other Party

shall be the subject of consultations within the Joint Committee if the other Party so requests. 4. The Parties agree that for the purpose of the correct interpretation

practical application of this Agreement the term 'appropriate measures' in this Article means the suspension of, or the non-performance for the time being of obligations under this Agreement or any specific agreement referred to under Article 9

Article 43(3) or any other measure recommended by the Joint Committee.

Appropriate measures shall be taken in accordance with international law

shall be proportionate to the failure to implement obligations under this Agreement. The Parties further agree that the term 'cases of special urgency' in paragraphs 1

2 means: (

1. a)repudiation of this Agreement not sanctioned by the general rules of international law; or (
2. b)violation of an essential element of the Agreement, as described in Article 1

Article 7(2).

ARTICLE 45 Facilities In order to facilitate cooperation in the framework of this Agreement, both Parties shall provide the guarantees

facilities necessary for the performance of their functions. ARTICLE 46 Territorial Application This Agreement shall apply to the territory in which the Treaty on European Union

the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union apply under the conditions laid down in these Treaties, on the one hand,

to the territory of the Republic of Singapore, on the other. ARTICLE 47 Definition of the Parties For the purposes of this Agreement, 'the Parties' means the Union or its Member States or the Union

its Member States, in accordance with their respective powers, on the one hand,

the Republic of Singapore, on the other. ARTICLE 48 Disclosure of Information Nothing in this Agreement shall be construed to require any Party to provide any information, the disclosure of which it considers contrary to its essential security interests or to the maintenance of international peace

security. ARTICLE 49 Entry into Force

Duration

1. This Agreement shall enter into force on the first day of the month following the date on which the Parties have notified each other of the completion of the legal procedures necessary for this purpose.
2. This Agreement is concluded for a period of five years. It shall be automatically extended for further successive periods of one year, unless either the Republic of Singapore, of the one part, or the Union

its Member States, of the other part, notifies the other Party in writing of its intention not to extend this Agreement six months prior to the end of any subsequent one-year period.

1. Any amendments to this Agreement shall be made by agreement between the Parties. Any amendments shall become effective only after the latter Party has notified the other Party that all necessary formalities have been completed.
2. This Agreement may be terminated by written notice of denunciation given either by the Republic of Singapore, of the one part, or the Union

its Member States, of the other part, to the other Party. The termination shall take effect six months after receipt of the notification by the other Party. ARTICLE 50 Declarations

Side Letters The Joint Declarations

the Side Letter to this Agreement shall form an integral part of this Agreement. ARTICLE 51 Notifications Notifications made in accordance with Article 49 shall be made to the Secretariat General of the Council of the European Union

the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Singapore, respectively. ARTICLE 52 Authentic Text This Agreement is drawn up in the Bulgarian, Croatian, Czech, Danish, Dutch, English, Estonian, Finnish, French, German, Greek, Hungarian, Italian, Latvian, Lithuanian, Maltese, Polish, Portuguese, Romanian, Slovak, Slovene, Spanish

Swedish languages, each of these texts being equally authentic. In the event of any divergence in the interpretation of this Agreement the Parties shall refer the matter to the Joint Committee. Joint Declaration on Article 44 (Non-execution of the Agreement) The Parties agree that 'violation of an essential element of the Agreement' referred to in Article 44

substantial failure to comply with the obligations set out in Article 1

Article 7(2).

Joint Declaration on Article 52 (Authentic Text) In the event of any divergence in the interpretation of this Agreement, account shall be taken of the fact that this Agreement was negotiated in English. 1 For the purpose of this Article, 'intellectual property rights' refers to: (

1. a)all categories of intellectual property that are the subject of Sections 1 through 7 of Part II of the Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights contained in Annex 1C of the Marrakesh Agreement Establishing the World Trade Organization done at Marrakesh on 15 April 1994 namely: (
2. i)copyright

related rights; (

1. ii)patents; (iii) trademarks; (
2. iv)designs; (
3. v)layout-designs (topographies) of integrated circuits; (
4. vi)geographical indications; (vii) protection of undisclosed information;

(b) plant variety rights. In the case of the Union, for the purposes of this Agreement, 'patents' include rights derived from supplementary protection certificates. Съставено в Брюксел на деветнадесети октомври две хиляди и осемнадесета година. Hecho en Bruselas, el diecinueve de octubre de dos mil dieciocho. V Bruselu dne devatenáctého října dva tisíce osmnáct. Udfærdiget i Bruxelles den nittende oktober to tusind og atten. Geschehen zu Brüssel am neunzehnten Oktober zweitausendachtzehn. Kahe tuhande kaheksateistkümnenda aasta oktoobrikuu üheksateistkümnendal päeval Brüsselis. ΄Εγινε στις Βρυξέλλες, στις δέκα εννέα Οκτωβρίου δύο χιλιάδες δεκαοκτώ. Done at Brussels on the nineteenth day of October in the year two thousand

eighteen. Fait à Bruxelles, le dix-neuf octobre deux mille dix-huit. Sastavljeno u Bruxellesu devetnaestog listopada godine dvije tisuće osamnaeste. Fatto a Bruxelles, addì diciannove ottobre duemiladiciotto. Briselē, divi tūkstoši astoņpadsmitā gada deviņpadsmitajā oktobrī. Priimta du tūkstančiai aštuonioliktų metų spalio devynioliktą dieną Briuselyje. Kelt Brüsszelben, a kétezer-tizennyolcadik év október havának tizenkilencedik napján. Magħmul fi Brussell, fid-dsatax-il jum ta' Ottubru fis-sena elfejn u tmintax. Gedaan te Brussel, negentien oktober tweeduizend achttien. Sporządzono w Brukseli dnia dziewiętnastego października roku dwa tysiące osiemnastego. Feito em Bruxelas, em dezanove de outubro de dois mil e dezoito. Întocmit la Bruxelles la nouăsprezece octombrie două mii optsprezece. V Bruseli devätnásteho októbra dvetisícosemnásť. V Bruslju, dne devetnajstega oktobra leta dva tisoč osemnajst. Tehty Brysselissä yhdeksäntenätoista päivänä lokakuuta vuonna kaksituhattakahdeksantoista. Som skedde i Bryssel den nittonde oktober år tjugohundraarton. Pavadvēstule Ņemot vērā Partnerības un sadarbības nolīgumu starp Eiropas Savienību un tās dalībvalstīm, no vienas puses, un Singapūras Republiku, no otras puses, abas Puses apstiprina, ka šā nolīguma parakstīšanas brīdī, pamatojoties uz objektīvi pieejamo informāciju, tām nav zināms par otras Puses tiesību aktiem vai to piemērošanu, kas varētu izraisīt šā nolīguma 44. panta piemērošanu.