Brussels, 13/03/2000 (Agence Europe) - In addition to the decision on the candidature by Mr Köhler (see above) and the opinions given on three revised stability programmes (see other article pp.9/10), the Ecofin Council meeting on Monday tackled the following issues:
- Extraordinary European Council of Lisbon. The Council completed the preparation, for its part, by adopting the document drawn up by the Ecofin Council, a document that will be its own contribution to the summit. It also greatly welcomed a document by the Committee on Economic Policy, which will serve not only at the summit but also for the elaboration of the Broad Economic Policy Guidelines (to be proposed by the Commission on Tuesday). It should be noted that President Prodi has for the first time taken part in the Ecofin Council by presenting the essential points of the Commission's Communication of 28 February. It should also be noted it has been decided that the finance ministers should take part at the summit.
- Discharge for the 1998 Budget. The Council approved its recommendation to the EP and heard Mrs. Schreyer present the major outlines of the Action Plan that the European Commission will implement to improve financial management and procedures. Tax. Commissioner Bolkestein presented the major outlines of the Communication that the Commission has just adopted on a tax on kerosene used in aircraft (see EUROPE of 11 March, page 10). Some Member States (Spain and, to a lesser extent, Greece and Ireland) are said to have shown reservations.
- Montenegro. Minister confirmed that financial assistance through loans was not possible in the case of this Republic that is not a sovereign State, but part of the FRY; it would consequently be necessary to provide grants, through the Community budget and national budgets (including non-European donors). The Council asked the Commission to rapidly proceed with an assessment of requirements and available instruments, so that decisions may be taken quickly.
