Joint Declaration in relation to Article 39 (2) (c), second subparagraph on opening ports

Joint Declaration in relation to Article 39 (2) (c), second subparagraph on opening ports

On the basis of the information provided by the Russian side concerning their ports open to foreign vessels, the Community takes note that Russia intends to continue its effort to increase the number of ports open to foreign vessels. The Russian side also notes the Community's policy of maintaining open to foreign vessels all ports open to international trade. The Parties consider that the degree of openness of ports to foreign vessels is an essential feature of an assessment of the conditions necessary for the free supply of services in international maritime transport. They therefore undertake to review the situation regarding ports open to foreign vessels at least every two years through consultations to be held in the framework of the Cooperation Council. If serious difficulties arise in maintaining a port open to foreign vessels, the Party in whose territory the port concerned is situated shall inform the other Party; at the request of the latter, consultations shall be held so as to ensure that any action taken affects as little as possible the free supply of international maritime services.