A. Letter from Russia

A. Letter from Russia

Sir,

The purpose of this letter is to confirm that with regard to trade in nuclear materials as covered by Article 22 of the Agreement on Partnership and Cooperation signed today, we have reached the following understanding:

Russia intends to act as a stable, reliable and long-term supplier of nuclear materials to the Community and the Community recognizes that intention. The Russian Government takes note that the Community considers Russia, in particular for the purposes of its supply policy in the nuclear field, as a source of supply which is separate and distinct from other suppliers.

In order to avoid any difficulties in trade, consultations shall be held regularly or on request on developments in the trade of nuclear materials between Russia and the Community. These consultations could include a continuous and regular dialogue on market developments and forecasts.

The consultations shall be held within the framework of Article 92.

As provided in Article 13 of the Agreement on Partnership and Cooperation the regulations referred to in Article 6 of the 1989 Agreement will be implemented in a uniform, impartial and equitable manner.

I refer to our common desire to facilitate by all practicable means the process of nuclear disarmament underway. We have agreed to take all necessary steps to conduct consultations with all countries concerned, if it appears that the implementation of respective bi- and multilateral agreements causes or threatens to cause substantial injury to the facilities of the Parties.

I propose that this letter and your reply will establish a formal agreement between us.

Please accept, Sir, the assurance of my highest consideration.