Council Decision (CFSP) 2025/1320 of 30 June 2025 amending Decision 2014/512/CFSP concerning restrictive measures in view of Russia’s actions destabilising the situation in Ukraine

January 13, 2026
Official Journalof the European Union ENL series
2025/1320 30.6.2025
(1) On 31 July 2014, the Council adopted Decision 2014/512/CFSP(1).
(2) In its Resolution ES-11/7, adopted on 24 February 2025, the United Nations General Assembly recalled the need for the full implementation of its relevant resolutions adopted in response to the aggression against Ukraine, in particular its demand that the Russian Federation immediately, completely and unconditionally withdraw all of its military forces from the territory of Ukraine within its internationally recognised borders, and its demand for an immediate cessation of the hostilities by the Russian Federation against Ukraine, in particular of any attacks against civilians and civilian objects.
(3) As long as the illegal actions by the Russian Federation continue to violate fundamental rules of international law, including, in particular, the prohibition on the use of force enshrined in Article 2(4) of the Charter of the United Nations, or of international humanitarian law, it is appropriate to maintain in force all the measures imposed by the Union and to take additional measures, if necessary. Consequently, Decision 2014/512/CFSP should be renewed for a further 6 months.
(4) Decision 2014/512/CFSP should therefore be amended accordingly,
THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,
Having regard to the Treaty on European Union, and in particular Article 29 thereof,
Having regard to the proposal from the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy,
Whereas:
(1) On 31 July 2014, the Council adopted Decision 2014/512/CFSP (1).
(2) In its Resolution ES-11/7, adopted on 24 February 2025, the United Nations General Assembly recalled the need for the full implementation of its relevant resolutions adopted in response to the aggression against Ukraine, in particular its demand that the Russian Federation immediately, completely and unconditionally withdraw all of its military forces from the territory of Ukraine within its internationally recognised borders, and its demand for an immediate cessation of the hostilities by the Russian Federation against Ukraine, in particular of any attacks against civilians and civilian objects.
(3) As long as the illegal actions by the Russian Federation continue to violate fundamental rules of international law, including, in particular, the prohibition on the use of force enshrined in Article 2(4) of the Charter of the United Nations, or of international humanitarian law, it is appropriate to maintain in force all the measures imposed by the Union and to take additional measures, if necessary. Consequently, Decision 2014/512/CFSP should be renewed for a further 6 months.
(4) Decision 2014/512/CFSP should therefore be amended accordingly,
HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:
In Decision 2014/512/CFSP, Article 9(1) is replaced by the following:

‘1. This Decision shall apply until 31 January 2026.’.

This Decision shall enter into force on the day following that of its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union.

Commission Implementing Decision (EU) 2025/1318 of 27 June 2025 concerning certain interim emergency measures relating to infection with lumpy skin disease virus in Italy (notified under document C(2025) 4422)

January 13, 2026
Official Journalof the European Union ENL series
2025/1318 1.7.2025
(1) Infection with lumpy skin disease virus is an infectious, vector-borne disease affecting bovine animals. Its occurrence can have a severe impact on the concerned animal population and on the profitability of farming, also causing disturbance to movements of consignments of those animals and products thereof within the Union and exports to third countries.
(2) In the event of an outbreak of infection lumpy skin disease virus in bovine animals, there is a serious risk of the spread of that disease to other establishments of bovine animals particularly due its mode of transmission through vectors.
(3) Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/687(2)supplements the rules for the control of the listed diseases referred to in Article 9(1), points (a), (b) and (c), of Regulation (EU) 2016/429, and defined as category A, B and C diseases in Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2018/1882(3). In particular, Articles 21 and 22 of Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/687 provide for the establishment of a restricted zone in the event of an outbreak of a category A disease, including infection with lumpy skin disease virus, and for certain measures to be applied therein. In addition, Article 21(1) of that Delegated Regulation provides that the restricted zone is to comprise at least a protection zone, a surveillance zone, and, if necessary, further restricted zones around or adjacent to the protection and surveillance zones.
(4) Italy has informed the Commission of the current situation, in its territory, as regards the infection of bovine animals with the lumpy skin disease virus, following an outbreak of that disease in kept bovine animals in the Nuoro province in the region of Sardinia, which was reported on 23 June 2025. Following that report, Italy has reportedly established a restricted zone in the sense of Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/687; that comprises a protection zone and a surveillance zone, where the disease control measures foreseen in Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/687 are also applied.
(5) In order to control the spread of infection with lumpy skin disease virus, as well as to prevent any unnecessary disturbance to trade within the Union and to avoid unjustified barriers to trade by third countries, it is necessary to rapidly identify at Union level the restricted zone for infection with lumpy skin disease virus, which comprises the protection zone, the surveillance zone and the further restricted zone in Italy.
(6) The size of the protection, surveillance, and further restricted zones, and the duration of the measures to be applied therein, are based on the criteria laid down in Article 64(1) of Regulation (EU) 2016/429, as well as on the rules laid down in Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/687. The criteria applied for the choice of the size of the protection, surveillance, and further restricted zones, as well as of the duration of the measures to be applied therein, include a consideration of not only the epidemiological situation as regards infection with lumpy skin disease virus in the areas affected by that disease, but also of other epidemiological factors, including geographical parameters and the risk for the further spread of the disease. The chosen duration of the measures foreseen in this Decision has also taken into account the international standards of the Terrestrial Animal Health Code of the World Organisation for Animal Health(4).
(7) The areas identified as protection, surveillance and further restricted zones in Italy, should therefore be set out in the Annex to this Decision accordingly, and the duration of that regionalisation should be established in Union law. In addition, considering the fact that infection with lumpy skin disease virus can spread through sub-clinically infected bovine animals, it is necessary to prohibit the movements of bovine animals from any location in the protection zone, the surveillance zone or the further restricted zone to a destination located outside the external perimeter of the further restricted zone.
(8) Given the urgency of the epidemiological situation in the Union as regards the spread of infection with lumpy skin disease virus and the need to prevent the disease from spreading from the affected establishment in Italy to other parts of that Member State or to other Member States, the measures laid down in this Implementing Decision should apply as soon as possible.
(9) Accordingly, pending the opinion of the Standing Committee on Plants, Animals, Food and Feed, the protection zone, the surveillance zone and the further restricted zone in Italy should be established immediately and listed in the Annex to this Decision and the duration of that zoning fixed.
(10) Taking into account the current epidemiological situation in the Union as regards infection with lumpy skin disease virus, this Decision should apply until 10 August 2025.
(11) This Decision is to be reviewed at the next meeting of the Standing Committee on Plants, Animals, Food and Feed,
(a) a restricted zone, which comprises a protection zone, a surveillance zone and a further restricted zone, is established immediately by the competent authorities of that Member State in accordance with Article 21 of Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/687, and under the conditions laid down in that Article;
(b) the protection, surveillance and further restricted zones referred to in point (a) comprise at least the areas listed in the Annex to this Decision;
(c) the measures required to be applied in the protection, surveillance and further restricted zones are applied at least until the dates listed in the Annex to this Decision.
Administrative area and ADIS reference number of the outbreak Areas established as protection and surveillance zones, part of the restricted zone in Italy, referred to in Article 1 Date until applicable
Sardinia regionIT-LSD-2025-00001 Protection zone:Those parts of the region of Sardinia, contained within a circle of a radius of 20 kilometres, centred on UTM 30, ETRS89 coordinates Lat. 40.30429, Long. 9.22154 (IT-LSD-2025-00001). 24.7.2025
Surveillance zone:Those parts of the region of Sardinia, contained within a circle of a radius of 50 kilometres, centred on UTM 30, ETRS89 coordinates Lat. 40.30429, Long. 9.22154 (IT-LSD-2025-00001) excluding the areas included in the protection zone. 10.8.2025
Surveillance zone:Those parts of the region of Sardinia, contained within a circle of a radius of 20 kilometres, centred on UTM 30, ETRS89 coordinates Lat. 40.30429, Long. 9.22154 (IT-LSD-2025-00001). 25.7.2025 – 10.8.2025
Administrative area Areas established as further restricted zone, part of the restricted zone in Italy, referred to in Article 1 Date until applicable
Sardinia region The entire territory of the region of Sardinia excluding the areas included in any protection or surveillance zone. 10.8.2025
THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION,
Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,
Having regard to Regulation (EU) 2016/429 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 9 March 2016 on transmissible animal diseases and amending and repealing certain acts in the area of animal health (‘Animal Health Law’) (1), and in particular Article 259(2) thereof,
Whereas:
(1) Infection with lumpy skin disease virus is an infectious, vector-borne disease affecting bovine animals. Its occurrence can have a severe impact on the concerned animal population and on the profitability of farming, also causing disturbance to movements of consignments of those animals and products thereof within the Union and exports to third countries.
(2) In the event of an outbreak of infection lumpy skin disease virus in bovine animals, there is a serious risk of the spread of that disease to other establishments of bovine animals particularly due its mode of transmission through vectors.
(3) Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/687 (2) supplements the rules for the control of the listed diseases referred to in Article 9(1), points (a), (b) and (c), of Regulation (EU) 2016/429, and defined as category A, B and C diseases in Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2018/1882 (3). In particular, Articles 21 and 22 of Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/687 provide for the establishment of a restricted zone in the event of an outbreak of a category A disease, including infection with lumpy skin disease virus, and for certain measures to be applied therein. In addition, Article 21(1) of that Delegated Regulation provides that the restricted zone is to comprise at least a protection zone, a surveillance zone, and, if necessary, further restricted zones around or adjacent to the protection and surveillance zones.
(4) Italy has informed the Commission of the current situation, in its territory, as regards the infection of bovine animals with the lumpy skin disease virus, following an outbreak of that disease in kept bovine animals in the Nuoro province in the region of Sardinia, which was reported on 23 June 2025. Following that report, Italy has reportedly established a restricted zone in the sense of Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/687; that comprises a protection zone and a surveillance zone, where the disease control measures foreseen in Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/687 are also applied.
(5) In order to control the spread of infection with lumpy skin disease virus, as well as to prevent any unnecessary disturbance to trade within the Union and to avoid unjustified barriers to trade by third countries, it is necessary to rapidly identify at Union level the restricted zone for infection with lumpy skin disease virus, which comprises the protection zone, the surveillance zone and the further restricted zone in Italy.
(6) The size of the protection, surveillance, and further restricted zones, and the duration of the measures to be applied therein, are based on the criteria laid down in Article 64(1) of Regulation (EU) 2016/429, as well as on the rules laid down in Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/687. The criteria applied for the choice of the size of the protection, surveillance, and further restricted zones, as well as of the duration of the measures to be applied therein, include a consideration of not only the epidemiological situation as regards infection with lumpy skin disease virus in the areas affected by that disease, but also of other epidemiological factors, including geographical parameters and the risk for the further spread of the disease. The chosen duration of the measures foreseen in this Decision has also taken into account the international standards of the Terrestrial Animal Health Code of the World Organisation for Animal Health (4).
(7) The areas identified as protection, surveillance and further restricted zones in Italy, should therefore be set out in the Annex to this Decision accordingly, and the duration of that regionalisation should be established in Union law. In addition, considering the fact that infection with lumpy skin disease virus can spread through sub-clinically infected bovine animals, it is necessary to prohibit the movements of bovine animals from any location in the protection zone, the surveillance zone or the further restricted zone to a destination located outside the external perimeter of the further restricted zone.
(8) Given the urgency of the epidemiological situation in the Union as regards the spread of infection with lumpy skin disease virus and the need to prevent the disease from spreading from the affected establishment in Italy to other parts of that Member State or to other Member States, the measures laid down in this Implementing Decision should apply as soon as possible.
(9) Accordingly, pending the opinion of the Standing Committee on Plants, Animals, Food and Feed, the protection zone, the surveillance zone and the further restricted zone in Italy should be established immediately and listed in the Annex to this Decision and the duration of that zoning fixed.
(10) Taking into account the current epidemiological situation in the Union as regards infection with lumpy skin disease virus, this Decision should apply until 10 August 2025.
(11) This Decision is to be reviewed at the next meeting of the Standing Committee on Plants, Animals, Food and Feed,
HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:
Italy shall ensure that:

(a) a restricted zone, which comprises a protection zone, a surveillance zone and a further restricted zone, is established immediately by the competent authorities of that Member State in accordance with Article 21 of Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/687, and under the conditions laid down in that Article;
(b) the protection, surveillance and further restricted zones referred to in point (a) comprise at least the areas listed in the Annex to this Decision;
(c) the measures required to be applied in the protection, surveillance and further restricted zones are applied at least until the dates listed in the Annex to this Decision.

Italy shall ensure that movements of bovine animals from the protection, surveillance or further restricted zones set out in the Annex to a destination located outside the external perimeter of the further restricted zone are prohibited until the dates listed in that Annex.
This Decision shall apply until 10 August 2025.
This Decision is addressed to the Italian Republic.

Part A:   Protection and surveillance zones established around the confirmed outbreak

Administrative area and ADIS reference number of the outbreak
Areas established as protection and surveillance zones, part of the restricted zone in Italy, referred to in Article 1
Date until applicable
Sardinia region
IT-LSD-2025-00001
Protection zone:
Those parts of the region of Sardinia, contained within a circle of a radius of 20 kilometres, centred on UTM 30, ETRS89 coordinates Lat. 40.30429, Long. 9.22154 (IT-LSD-2025-00001).
24.7.2025
Surveillance zone:
Those parts of the region of Sardinia, contained within a circle of a radius of 50 kilometres, centred on UTM 30, ETRS89 coordinates Lat. 40.30429, Long. 9.22154 (IT-LSD-2025-00001) excluding the areas included in the protection zone.
10.8.2025
Surveillance zone:
Those parts of the region of Sardinia, contained within a circle of a radius of 20 kilometres, centred on UTM 30, ETRS89 coordinates Lat. 40.30429, Long. 9.22154 (IT-LSD-2025-00001).
25.7.2025 – 10.8.2025

Part B: Further restricted zone

Administrative area
Areas established as further restricted zone, part of the restricted zone in Italy, referred to in Article 1
Date until applicable
Sardinia region
The entire territory of the region of Sardinia excluding the areas included in any protection or surveillance zone.
10.8.2025

Council Decision (EU) 2025/1315 of 17 June 2025 on the position to be taken on behalf of the European Union concerning the nomination of a Union representative to the Board of the Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage

January 13, 2026
Official Journalof the European Union ENL series
2025/1315 2.7.2025
(1) Participation of the Union, as appropriate, in international organisations or boards thereof need to be decided on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the rules governing the composition of such organisations or boards as well as the specific Union competences at stake.
(2) The Union is a Party to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and to the Paris Agreement(1)adopted under the UNFCCC and has participated in the decisions approving the establishment of a Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage (the ‘Fund’) and a governing instrument for that Fund (the ‘Governing Instrument’) taken by the Conference of the Parties to the UNFCCC and the Conference of the Parties serving as the meeting of the Parties to the Paris Agreement on 30 November 2023.
(3) Pursuant to paragraph 17 of the Governing Instrument, the Board of the Fund (the ‘Board’) will comprise, inter alia, ‘12 members from developed countries’. In accordance with paragraph 8 of the Governing Instrument, the Parties to the UNFCCC and to the Paris Agreement were invited, through their regional groups and constituencies, to submit to the UNFCCC secretariat as soon as possible nominations for membership of the Board.
(4) Arrangements for convening the first meeting of the Board are to be initiated as soon as possible after all voting member nominations have been submitted.
(5) On the basis of a Union position agreed by the Council and a common position of the Member States, as agreed by their representatives in February 2024, the Union has agreed with other developed-country Parties that the EU and its Member States will nominate as representatives seven members and seven alternate members to sit on the Board.
(6) It is appropriate to establish the position to be taken on the Union’s behalf concerning the nomination of a Union representative on the Board and on the sharing of seats between Union and Member State representatives in parallel with the common position reached by the representatives of the Member States in May 2025, as the nomination of a Union representative to the Board will have legal effects. This Decision concerns only the initial nomination of members of the Board and is without prejudice to the positions of the Union and the Member States on the allocation of seats in groups, panels or boards of multilateral funds or other initiatives, or to the renewal of the terms of office of Union and Member State representatives on the Board and in other groups, panels or boards, which will be established in line with the applicable procedures. The allocation of seats among developed-country representatives in the composition of the Board does not constitute a precedent for other decisions to be taken when renewing the terms of office of members of the Board or within other international fora.
(7) The Union seat on the Board, held by a representative of the Commission, does not affect whether or to what extent a Union position on matters discussed by the Board is needed, or the procedures for adopting such a position, and is to respect the principle of sincere cooperation. The Union representative will speak and vote in the name of and on behalf of the Union only while the Member States representatives will speak and vote in the name of and on behalf of the Member State in line with applicable rules. This Decision does not alter the division of competences between the Union and the Member States in relation to matters that are the subject of other decisions taken by the Board. In particular, pursuant to Article 4(4) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, in the area of development cooperation and humanitarian aid, the Union has competence to carry out activities and conduct a common policy; however, the exercise of that competence is not to result in Member States being prevented from exercising theirs. This Decision cannot be interpreted as implying an exercise of Union competence over matters covered by the Fund with regard to which the Union has not yet exercised its shared competences and which therefore remain within the competences of the Member States.
(8) The proposal to include a Union seat on the Board does not affect the ability of Member States represented on the Board to express support for any duly agreed Union position, or their own positions, on matters falling within their competences, while respecting the principle of sincere cooperation.
(9) The Commission is to report periodically to the Council on the Board’s proceedings in line with the principle of sincere cooperation enshrined in the Treaties.
(10) The position to be taken on behalf of the Union on membership of the Board does not alter the representation of the EU and its Member States in the UNFCCC.
(11) Funding pledges by the Union to the Fund are to be prepared in accordance with the applicable procedures under Union law, while respecting the prerogatives of the institutions concerned,
Member France Italy Germany Commission Portugal Denmark Austria
Alternate France Italy Germany Ireland Spain Finland/ Sweden Luxemburg/ Slovenia
THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,
Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, and in particular Article 209, in conjunction with Article 218(9) thereof,
Having regard to the proposal from the European Commission,
Whereas:
(1) Participation of the Union, as appropriate, in international organisations or boards thereof need to be decided on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the rules governing the composition of such organisations or boards as well as the specific Union competences at stake.
(2) The Union is a Party to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and to the Paris Agreement (1) adopted under the UNFCCC and has participated in the decisions approving the establishment of a Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage (the ‘Fund’) and a governing instrument for that Fund (the ‘Governing Instrument’) taken by the Conference of the Parties to the UNFCCC and the Conference of the Parties serving as the meeting of the Parties to the Paris Agreement on 30 November 2023.
(3) Pursuant to paragraph 17 of the Governing Instrument, the Board of the Fund (the ‘Board’) will comprise, inter alia, ‘12 members from developed countries’. In accordance with paragraph 8 of the Governing Instrument, the Parties to the UNFCCC and to the Paris Agreement were invited, through their regional groups and constituencies, to submit to the UNFCCC secretariat as soon as possible nominations for membership of the Board.
(4) Arrangements for convening the first meeting of the Board are to be initiated as soon as possible after all voting member nominations have been submitted.
(5) On the basis of a Union position agreed by the Council and a common position of the Member States, as agreed by their representatives in February 2024, the Union has agreed with other developed-country Parties that the EU and its Member States will nominate as representatives seven members and seven alternate members to sit on the Board.
(6) It is appropriate to establish the position to be taken on the Union’s behalf concerning the nomination of a Union representative on the Board and on the sharing of seats between Union and Member State representatives in parallel with the common position reached by the representatives of the Member States in May 2025, as the nomination of a Union representative to the Board will have legal effects. This Decision concerns only the initial nomination of members of the Board and is without prejudice to the positions of the Union and the Member States on the allocation of seats in groups, panels or boards of multilateral funds or other initiatives, or to the renewal of the terms of office of Union and Member State representatives on the Board and in other groups, panels or boards, which will be established in line with the applicable procedures. The allocation of seats among developed-country representatives in the composition of the Board does not constitute a precedent for other decisions to be taken when renewing the terms of office of members of the Board or within other international fora.
(7) The Union seat on the Board, held by a representative of the Commission, does not affect whether or to what extent a Union position on matters discussed by the Board is needed, or the procedures for adopting such a position, and is to respect the principle of sincere cooperation. The Union representative will speak and vote in the name of and on behalf of the Union only while the Member States representatives will speak and vote in the name of and on behalf of the Member State in line with applicable rules. This Decision does not alter the division of competences between the Union and the Member States in relation to matters that are the subject of other decisions taken by the Board. In particular, pursuant to Article 4(4) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, in the area of development cooperation and humanitarian aid, the Union has competence to carry out activities and conduct a common policy; however, the exercise of that competence is not to result in Member States being prevented from exercising theirs. This Decision cannot be interpreted as implying an exercise of Union competence over matters covered by the Fund with regard to which the Union has not yet exercised its shared competences and which therefore remain within the competences of the Member States.
(8) The proposal to include a Union seat on the Board does not affect the ability of Member States represented on the Board to express support for any duly agreed Union position, or their own positions, on matters falling within their competences, while respecting the principle of sincere cooperation.
(9) The Commission is to report periodically to the Council on the Board’s proceedings in line with the principle of sincere cooperation enshrined in the Treaties.
(10) The position to be taken on behalf of the Union on membership of the Board does not alter the representation of the EU and its Member States in the UNFCCC.
(11) Funding pledges by the Union to the Fund are to be prepared in accordance with the applicable procedures under Union law, while respecting the prerogatives of the institutions concerned,
HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:
The position to be taken on the Union’s behalf concerning the nomination of a Union representative to the Board of the Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage and the sharing of seats between the representatives of the Commission and the Member States is attached to this Decision.
This Decision shall enter into force on the date of its adoption.

Council Decision (EU) 2025/1314 of 23 June 2025 on the submission, on behalf of the European Union, of proposals for amendments to the appendices to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) and on the position to be taken on behalf of the European Union at the 20th meeting of the Conference of the Parties to that Convention

January 13, 2026
Official Journalof the European Union ENL series
2025/1314 30.6.2025
(1) The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora(1)(CITES) entered into force on 1 July 1975. The Union acceded to CITES by means of Council Decision (EU) 2015/451(2).
(2) Pursuant to Article XI(3), point (b), of CITES, the Conference of the Parties to CITES (the ‘Conference of the Parties’) can adopt decisions to amend Appendices I and II to CITES.
(3) Pursuant to Article XVI of CITES, any Party can submit to the Secretariat of CITES a list of species which it identifies as being subject to regulation within its jurisdiction for the purpose of preventing or restricting exploitation, and as needing the cooperation of other Parties in the control of trade. That list is to be included in Appendix III to CITES.
(4) The Conference of the Parties will, during its 20th meeting, from 24 November 2025 to 5 December 2025, decide on any proposals to amend Appendices I and II to CITES. The Parties must submit such proposals to the Secretariat of CITES by 27 June 2025.
(5) Proposals to include species in Appendix III to CITES do not require a decision by the Conference of the Parties. It is nonetheless recommended that such proposals be made at least three months before the relevant meeting of the Conference of the Parties.
(6) It is appropriate to establish the position to be taken on the Union’s behalf at the 20th meeting of the Conference of the Parties with regard to proposals for amendments to Appendices I and II to CITES, as such amendments will be binding on the Union.
(7) The position to be taken on the Union’s behalf with regard to the proposals for amendments to the appendices to CITES set out in this Decision is based on an expert analysis of their merits, in accordance with the criteria established in CITES and in light of the best available scientific evidence. That expert analysis supports the proposals for amendments to the appendices to CITES set out in this Decision with a view to ensuring that trade in the species concerned does not threaten their survival in the wild,
Taxonomic group Taxon (common name) Proposal
Reptiles Gekko badenii*(Ba Den Golden gecko)*Subject to the expression of support from the only range State, Viet Nam, by 20.06.2025; no positive reply by that date results in no submission of the proposal Include in Appendix II
Amphibians Pelophylax epeiroticus,Pelophylax shqipericus,Pelophylax ridibundusandPelophylax lessonae(Water frogs) Include in Appendix II (with 18 months delay in entry into force)
Fish Anguillaspp.(Freshwater eels) Include in Appendix II (with 18 months delay in entry into force)
Centrophoridae(Gulper sharks) Include in Appendix II
Invertebrates Holothuria lessoni(Golden sandfish) Include in Appendix II
Actinopyga echinites,Actinopyga lecanora,Actinopyga mauritiana,Actinopyga miliaris,Actinopyga palauensisandActinopyga varians(Sea cucumbers) Include in Appendix II
Trees Commiphora wightii(Indian bdellium) Include in Appendix II
Araucaria angustifolia*(Paraná pine)*Subject to the expression of support from Brazil by 20.06.2025; no positive reply by that date results in no submission of the proposal Include in Appendix II (with the annotation #17)
Taxonomic group Taxon (common name) Proposal
Fish Carcharhinus longimanus(Oceanic whitetip shark) Transfer from Appendix II to Appendix I
Galeorhinus galeus(Tope shark),Mustelusspp.(Smoothhounds)**Subject to confirmation from Brazil of their intention to submit the proposal Include in Appendix II
Taxonomic group Taxon (common name) Proposal
Reptiles Gallotia atlantica,Gallotia bravoana,Gallotia caesaris,Gallotia galloti,Gallotia intermedia,Gallotia stehlini Include in Appendix III
THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,
Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, and in particular Article 192(1) in conjunction with Article 218(9) thereof,
Having regard to the proposal from the European Commission,
Whereas:
(1) The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (1) (CITES) entered into force on 1 July 1975. The Union acceded to CITES by means of Council Decision (EU) 2015/451 (2).
(2) Pursuant to Article XI(3), point (b), of CITES, the Conference of the Parties to CITES (the ‘Conference of the Parties’) can adopt decisions to amend Appendices I and II to CITES.
(3) Pursuant to Article XVI of CITES, any Party can submit to the Secretariat of CITES a list of species which it identifies as being subject to regulation within its jurisdiction for the purpose of preventing or restricting exploitation, and as needing the cooperation of other Parties in the control of trade. That list is to be included in Appendix III to CITES.
(4) The Conference of the Parties will, during its 20th meeting, from 24 November 2025 to 5 December 2025, decide on any proposals to amend Appendices I and II to CITES. The Parties must submit such proposals to the Secretariat of CITES by 27 June 2025.
(5) Proposals to include species in Appendix III to CITES do not require a decision by the Conference of the Parties. It is nonetheless recommended that such proposals be made at least three months before the relevant meeting of the Conference of the Parties.
(6) It is appropriate to establish the position to be taken on the Union’s behalf at the 20th meeting of the Conference of the Parties with regard to proposals for amendments to Appendices I and II to CITES, as such amendments will be binding on the Union.
(7) The position to be taken on the Union’s behalf with regard to the proposals for amendments to the appendices to CITES set out in this Decision is based on an expert analysis of their merits, in accordance with the criteria established in CITES and in light of the best available scientific evidence. That expert analysis supports the proposals for amendments to the appendices to CITES set out in this Decision with a view to ensuring that trade in the species concerned does not threaten their survival in the wild,
HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:
The proposals for amendments to Appendices I and II to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) to be submitted by the Union on the occasion of the 20th meeting of the Conference of the Parties to CITES (the ‘Conference of the Parties’) are set out in Annex I to this Decision. The proposals for amendments to Appendices I and II to CITES to be co-submitted by the Union on that occasion are set out in Annex II to this Decision.
The submission for inclusion in Appendix III to CITES to be made by the Union on the occasion of the 20th meeting of the Conference of the Parties is set out in Annex III to this Decision.
The position to be taken on the Union’s behalf at the 20th meeting of the Conference of the Parties shall be to support the proposals for amendments to Appendices I and II to CITES set out in Annexes I and II to this Decision.
This Decision shall enter into force on the date of its adoption.

Taxonomic group
Taxon (common name)
Proposal
Reptiles
Gekko badenii
*
(Ba Den Golden gecko)
* Subject to the expression of support from the only range State, Viet Nam, by 20.06.2025; no positive reply by that date results in no submission of the proposal
Include in Appendix II
Amphibians
Pelophylax epeiroticus, Pelophylax shqipericus, Pelophylax ridibundus and Pelophylax lessonae
(Water frogs)
Include in Appendix II (with 18 months delay in entry into force)
Fish
Anguilla spp.
(Freshwater eels)
Include in Appendix II (with 18 months delay in entry into force)
Centrophoridae
(Gulper sharks)
Include in Appendix II
Invertebrates
Holothuria lessoni
(Golden sandfish)
Include in Appendix II
Actinopyga echinites, Actinopyga lecanora, Actinopyga mauritiana, Actinopyga miliaris, Actinopyga palauensis and Actinopyga varians
(Sea cucumbers)
Include in Appendix II
Trees
Commiphora wightii
(Indian bdellium)
Include in Appendix II
Araucaria angustifolia
*
(Paraná pine)
* Subject to the expression of support from Brazil by 20.06.2025; no positive reply by that date results in no submission of the proposal
Include in Appendix II (with the annotation #17)

Taxonomic group
Taxon (common name)
Proposal
Fish
Carcharhinus longimanus
(Oceanic whitetip shark)
Transfer from Appendix II to Appendix I
Galeorhinus galeus
(Tope shark),
Mustelus spp.
(Smoothhounds)*
* Subject to confirmation from Brazil of their intention to submit the proposal
Include in Appendix II

Taxonomic group
Taxon (common name)
Proposal
Reptiles
Gallotia atlantica, Gallotia bravoana, Gallotia caesaris, Gallotia galloti, Gallotia intermedia, Gallotia stehlini
Include in Appendix III

Council Decision (EU) 2025/1312 of 24 June 2025 appointing an alternate member, proposed by the Kingdom of the Netherlands, of the Committee of the Regions

January 13, 2026
Official Journalof the European Union ENL series
2025/1312 1.7.2025
(1) Pursuant to Article 300(3) of the Treaty, the Committee of the Regions is to consist of representatives of regional and local bodies who either hold a regional or local authority electoral mandate or are politically accountable to an elected assembly.
(2) On 10 December 2024, the Council adopted Decision (EU) 2025/71(2), appointing the members and alternate members of the Committee of the Regions for the period from 26 January 2025 to 25 January 2030.
(3) An alternate member’s seat on the Committee of the Regions has become vacant following the end of the national mandate on the basis of which Mr Abraham SCHMAAL was proposed for appointment.
(4) The Dutch Government has proposed Mr Erik Jan BENNEMA, representative of a regional body who is politically accountable to an elected assembly,Gedeputeerde, Lid van Gedeputeerde Staten van de provincie Groningen(Regional Minister of the province of Groningen), as a member of the Committee of the Regions for the remainder of the current term of office, which runs until 25 January 2030,
THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,
Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, and in particular Article 305 thereof,
Having regard to Council Decision (EU) 2019/852 of 21 May 2019 determining the composition of the Committee of the Regions (1),
Having regard to the proposal of the Dutch Government,
Whereas:
(1) Pursuant to Article 300(3) of the Treaty, the Committee of the Regions is to consist of representatives of regional and local bodies who either hold a regional or local authority electoral mandate or are politically accountable to an elected assembly.
(2) On 10 December 2024, the Council adopted Decision (EU) 2025/71 (2), appointing the members and alternate members of the Committee of the Regions for the period from 26 January 2025 to 25 January 2030.
(3) An alternate member’s seat on the Committee of the Regions has become vacant following the end of the national mandate on the basis of which Mr Abraham SCHMAAL was proposed for appointment.
(4) The Dutch Government has proposed Mr Erik Jan BENNEMA, representative of a regional body who is politically accountable to an elected assembly, Gedeputeerde, Lid van Gedeputeerde Staten van de provincie Groningen (Regional Minister of the province of Groningen), as a member of the Committee of the Regions for the remainder of the current term of office, which runs until 25 January 2030,
HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:
Mr Erik Jan BENNEMA, representative of a regional body who is politically accountable to an elected assembly, Gedeputeerde, Lid van Gedeputeerde Staten van de provincie Groningen (Regional Minister of the province of Groningen), is hereby appointed as an alternate member of the Committee of the Regions for the remainder of the current term of office, which runs until 25 January 2030.
This Decision shall enter into force on the date of its adoption.

Council Decision (EU) 2025/1308 of 23 June 2025 on the position to be taken on behalf of the European Union within the World Customs Organization (WCO) Council in relation to a WCO Article 16 Recommendation amending the Harmonised System

January 13, 2026
Official Journalof the European Union ENL series
2025/1308 2.7.2025
(1) The International Convention on the Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System (the ‘HS Convention’) was concluded by the Union by Council Decision 87/369/EEC(1)and entered into force on 1 January 1988.
(2) Pursuant to Article 7 of the HS Convention, the Harmonized System Committee may propose to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Council proposals for amendments to the Harmonized System Nomenclature (the ‘HS Nomenclature’). Pursuant to Article 16 of the HS Convention, the WCO Council may recommend amendments to the Contracting Parties.
(3) The WCO Council is expected to decide on a draft Recommendation to the Contracting Parties for an amendment to the HS Nomenclature at its June 2025 sessions (the ‘draft Recommendation’). The draft Recommendation is to be adopted on the basis of a proposal prepared by the Harmonized System Committee and finalised during its 75th meeting on 10-21 March 2025. It is to enter into force on 1 January 2028.
(4) It is of utmost importance that the HS Nomenclature be kept up-to-date and in line with the evolution of trade patterns and the development of new technologies, and that it reflect as closely as possible the needs of the users. The draft Recommendation includes numerous sets of amendments that take into account the need to modernise or adapt the HS Nomenclature to its environment.
(5) It is appropriate to establish the position to be taken on the Union’s behalf within the WCO Council in relation to the draft Recommendation, as once accepted under Article 16 of the HS Convention, the Recommendation will have legal effects on the Union and be capable of decisively influencing the content of Union law, in particular Annex I to Council Regulation (EEC) No 2658/87(2).
(6) The position of the Union within the WCO Council should be to support the draft Recommendation, as well as any minor editorial changes that may be deemed necessary,
THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,
Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, and in particular Article 31 and Article 207(4), first subparagraph, in conjunction with Article 218(9) thereof,
Having regard to the proposal from the European Commission,
Whereas:
(1) The International Convention on the Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System (the ‘HS Convention’) was concluded by the Union by Council Decision 87/369/EEC (1) and entered into force on 1 January 1988.
(2) Pursuant to Article 7 of the HS Convention, the Harmonized System Committee may propose to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Council proposals for amendments to the Harmonized System Nomenclature (the ‘HS Nomenclature’). Pursuant to Article 16 of the HS Convention, the WCO Council may recommend amendments to the Contracting Parties.
(3) The WCO Council is expected to decide on a draft Recommendation to the Contracting Parties for an amendment to the HS Nomenclature at its June 2025 sessions (the ‘draft Recommendation’). The draft Recommendation is to be adopted on the basis of a proposal prepared by the Harmonized System Committee and finalised during its 75th meeting on 10-21 March 2025. It is to enter into force on 1 January 2028.
(4) It is of utmost importance that the HS Nomenclature be kept up-to-date and in line with the evolution of trade patterns and the development of new technologies, and that it reflect as closely as possible the needs of the users. The draft Recommendation includes numerous sets of amendments that take into account the need to modernise or adapt the HS Nomenclature to its environment.
(5) It is appropriate to establish the position to be taken on the Union’s behalf within the WCO Council in relation to the draft Recommendation, as once accepted under Article 16 of the HS Convention, the Recommendation will have legal effects on the Union and be capable of decisively influencing the content of Union law, in particular Annex I to Council Regulation (EEC) No 2658/87 (2).
(6) The position of the Union within the WCO Council should be to support the draft Recommendation, as well as any minor editorial changes that may be deemed necessary,
HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:
1. The position to be taken on the Union’s behalf within the World Customs Organization (WCO) Council at its June 2025 sessions shall be to accept the draft Recommendation under Article 16 of the International Convention on the Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System (the ‘HS Convention’) concerning the amendment to the Harmonized System as set out in Annex Q to Document NC3358Ba (Report HSC/75/March 2025).

2. The representatives of the Union within the WCO Council may agree to minor editorial changes to the draft Recommendation under Article 16 of the HS Convention in light of developments at the upcoming WCO Council sessions, in consultation with Member States during on-the-spot coordination meetings, without a further decision of the Council.

This Decision shall enter into force on the date of its adoption.

Political and Security Committee Decision (CFSP) 2025/1306 of 24 June 2025 extending the mandate of the Head of Mission of the European Union Police Mission for the Palestinian Territories (EUPOL COPPS) (EUPOL COPPS/1/2025)

January 13, 2026
Official Journalof the European Union ENL series
2025/1306 30.6.2025
(1) Pursuant to Article 9(1) of Decision 2013/354/CFSP, the Political and Security Committee (PSC) is authorised, in accordance with Article 38, third paragraph, of the Treaty, to take the relevant decisions for the purpose of exercising political control and strategic direction of the European Union Police Mission for the Palestinian Territories (EUPOL COPPS), including the decision to appoint a Head of Mission upon a proposal of the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy (the ‘High Representative’).
(2) On 26 March 2024, the PSC adopted Decision (CFSP) 2024/1031(2), appointing Ms Karin LIMDAL as Head of Mission of EUPOL COPPS from 1 April 2024 to 30 June 2024.
(3) On 26 June 2024, the PSC adopted Decision (CFSP) 2024/1816(3), extending the mandate of Ms Karin LIMDAL as Head of Mission of EUPOL COPPS from 1 July 2024 to 30 June 2025.
(4) On 29 April 2025, the High Representative proposed to extend the mandate of Ms Karin LIMDAL as Head of Mission of EUPOL COPPS from 1 July 2025 to 30 June 2026,
THE POLITICAL AND SECURITY COMMITTEE,
Having regard to the Treaty on European Union, and in particular Article 38, third paragraph, thereof,
Having regard to Council Decision 2013/354/CFSP of 3 July 2013 on the European Union Police Mission for the Palestinian Territories (EUPOL COPPS) (1), and in particular Article 9(1) thereof,
Whereas:
(1) Pursuant to Article 9(1) of Decision 2013/354/CFSP, the Political and Security Committee (PSC) is authorised, in accordance with Article 38, third paragraph, of the Treaty, to take the relevant decisions for the purpose of exercising political control and strategic direction of the European Union Police Mission for the Palestinian Territories (EUPOL COPPS), including the decision to appoint a Head of Mission upon a proposal of the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy (the ‘High Representative’).
(2) On 26 March 2024, the PSC adopted Decision (CFSP) 2024/1031 (2), appointing Ms Karin LIMDAL as Head of Mission of EUPOL COPPS from 1 April 2024 to 30 June 2024.
(3) On 26 June 2024, the PSC adopted Decision (CFSP) 2024/1816 (3), extending the mandate of Ms Karin LIMDAL as Head of Mission of EUPOL COPPS from 1 July 2024 to 30 June 2025.
(4) On 29 April 2025, the High Representative proposed to extend the mandate of Ms Karin LIMDAL as Head of Mission of EUPOL COPPS from 1 July 2025 to 30 June 2026,
HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:
The mandate of Ms Karin LIMDAL as Head of Mission of the European Union Police Mission for the Palestinian Territories (EUPOL COPPS) is extended from 1 July 2025 to 30 June 2026.
This Decision shall enter into force on the date of its adoption.
It shall apply subject to the adoption of a decision by the Council extending the mandate of EUPOL COPPS as from 1 July 2025.

Council Decision (EU) 2025/1302 of 17 June 2025 establishing the position to be taken on behalf of the European Union in the Partnership Council established by the Trade and Cooperation Agreement between the European Union and the European Atomic Energy Community, of the one part, and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, of the other part, as regards decision No 2/2025 of the Partnership Council

January 13, 2026
Official Journalof the European Union ENL series
2025/1302 2.7.2025
(1) The Trade and Cooperation Agreement between the European Union and the European Atomic Energy Community, of the one part, and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, of the other part (the ‘Trade and Cooperation Agreement’ or ‘the Agreement’) was concluded by the Union by means of Council Decision (EU) 2021/689(1)and entered into force on 1 May 2021, having been provisionally applied since 1 January 2021.
(2) Pursuant to Article 519(b) of the Trade and Cooperation Agreement, the Partnership Council established under the Agreement may adopt decisions to issue interpretations of the provisions of Part Two of the Agreement.
(3) In accordance with Article 331(2) of the Agreement, between 1 July 2026 and 31 December 2026, the Partnership Council may decide to extend the application of Title VIII until 31 March 2027.
(4) The Partnership Council is to adopt at its next meeting or by written procedure a decision interpreting and implementing Article 331(2) of the Trade and Cooperation Agreement.
(5) It is appropriate to establish the position to be taken on the Union’s behalf in the Partnership Council as regards the interpretation and implementation of Article 331(2) of the Trade and Cooperation Agreement,
(1) In accordance with Article 331(1) of the Trade and Cooperation Agreement, Part Two, Heading One, Title VIII of that Agreement (‘Title VIII’) shall cease to apply on 30 June 2026.
(2) In accordance with Article 331(2) of the Agreement, between 1 July 2026 and 31 December 2026, the Partnership Council may decide to extend the application of Title VIII until 31 March 2027.
(3) A situation in which the Partnership Council could adopt a decision on the extension of the application of Title VIII only once Title VIII has already ceased to apply could lead to an interruption to the application of Title VIII, and therefore to uncertainty as regards the legal framework applicable to trade and investment between the European Union and the United Kingdom in the areas of energy and raw materials.
(4) To provide for legal certainty and predictability, it is therefore appropriate to adopt a decision interpreting Article 331(2) of the Agreement to the effect that a decision of the Partnership Council on the extension of the application of Title VIII until 31 March 2027 can be adopted before 1 July 2026, provided that it takes effect only as of 1 July 2026.
(5) The objectives of the Title VIII are to facilitate trade and investment between the European Union and the United Kingdom in the areas of energy and raw materials, and to support security of supply and environmental sustainability, notably in contributing to the fight against climate change in those areas.
(6) To achieve the objectives of Title VIII, it is opportune for both the European Union and the United Kingdom to continue their cooperation on energy through the application of the Title VIII.
(7) Energy stakeholders should be provided with a stable and predictable legal framework concerning the continuation of such cooperation which facilitates business and ensures market stability.
(8) It is therefore appropriate to adopt a decision on the application of the Title VIII until 31 March 2027,
THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,
Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, and in particular Article 194(2) thereof, in conjunction with Article 218(9) thereof,
Having regard to the proposal from the European Commission,
Whereas:
(1) The Trade and Cooperation Agreement between the European Union and the European Atomic Energy Community, of the one part, and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, of the other part (the ‘Trade and Cooperation Agreement’ or ‘the Agreement’) was concluded by the Union by means of Council Decision (EU) 2021/689 (1) and entered into force on 1 May 2021, having been provisionally applied since 1 January 2021.
(2) Pursuant to Article 519(b) of the Trade and Cooperation Agreement, the Partnership Council established under the Agreement may adopt decisions to issue interpretations of the provisions of Part Two of the Agreement.
(3) In accordance with Article 331(2) of the Agreement, between 1 July 2026 and 31 December 2026, the Partnership Council may decide to extend the application of Title VIII until 31 March 2027.
(4) The Partnership Council is to adopt at its next meeting or by written procedure a decision interpreting and implementing Article 331(2) of the Trade and Cooperation Agreement.
(5) It is appropriate to establish the position to be taken on the Union’s behalf in the Partnership Council as regards the interpretation and implementation of Article 331(2) of the Trade and Cooperation Agreement,
HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:
The position to be taken on the Union’s behalf in the Partnership Council established by the Trade and Cooperation Agreement between the European Union and the European Atomic Energy Community, of the one part, and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, of the other part, as regards the interpretation and implementation of Article 331(2) of that Agreement is set out in the draft decision of the Partnership Council attached to this Decision.
This Decision shall enter into force on the date of its adoption.
Article 331(2) of the Trade and Cooperation Agreement shall be interpreted to the effect that a decision on the extension of the application of Part Two, Heading One, Title VIII of the Trade and Cooperation Agreement until 31 March 2027 can be adopted before 1 July 2026, provided that it takes effect only as of 1 July 2026.
The application of Part Two, Heading One, Title VIII of the Trade and Cooperation Agreement shall be extended until 31 March 2027.
This Decision shall enter into force on the day of its adoption.
Article 2 shall take effect on 1 July 2026.

Council Decision (EU) 2025/1301 of 17 June 2025 establishing the position to be taken on behalf of the European Union in a Specialised Committee established by the Trade and Cooperation Agreement between the European Union and the European Atomic Energy Community, of the one part, and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, of the other part, as regards a decision of that Specialised Committee

January 13, 2026
Official Journalof the European Union ENL series
2025/1301 2.7.2025
(1) The Trade and Cooperation Agreement between the European Union and the European Atomic Energy Community, of the one part, and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, of the other part (‘the Trade and Cooperation Agreement’ or ‘the Agreement’) was concluded by the Union by means of Council Decision (EU) 2021/689(1)and entered into force on 1 May 2021, having been provisionally applied since 1 January 2021.
(2) The adjustment period provided for Annex 38 to the Agreement, during which each Party grants full access to vessels of the other Party to its waters to fish, ends on 30 June 2026.
(3) In accordance with Article 500(1) of the Agreement, which applies as of 1 July 2026, each Party is to grant access to vessels of the other Party to fish in its waters in the relevant ICES sub-areas for the relevant year at a level and on conditions determined in the annual consultations, provided that TACs have been agreed.
(4) The Parties wish to set out arrangements concerning the level and conditions of access from 1 July 2026 to 30 June 2038, which are to be considered as the level and conditions of access determined for the purposes of Article 500(1), (4) and (5) of the Agreement and providing full access to waters to fish during that period, including in the event of provisional TACs set pursuant to Article 499 of the Agreement.
(5) Article 508(2)(d) of the Trade and Cooperation Agreement provides that the Specialised Committee on Fisheries may adopt measures, including decisions and recommendations, in relation to any other aspect of cooperation on sustainable fisheries management under Heading Five of Part Two of the Agreement.
(6) Pursuant to Decision No 1/2025 of the Partnership Council interpreting Article 508(2)(d) of the Trade and Cooperation Agreement, the term ‘cooperation on sustainable fisheries management’ in Article 508(2)(d) of the Agreement shall be interpreted as including the adopting of a Decision by the Specialised Committee on Fisheries to provide for multiannual full access to waters to fish for a specified time period which is to be considered for the purposes of Article 500(1) and (4) of the Agreement as the agreed outcome of annual consultations (including in the case of access under Article 500(5) of the Agreement in the event that provisional TACs are set under Article 499 of the Agreement).
(7) It is appropriate to establish the position to be taken on the Union’s behalf in the Specialised Committee on Fisheries on this matter,
(1) The adjustment period provided for in Annex 38 to the Agreement, during which each Party grants to vessels of the other Party full access to its waters to fish, ends on 30 June 2026.
(2) In accordance with Article 500(1) of the Agreement, which applies after 30 June 2026, each Party is to grant vessels of the other Party access to fish in its waters in the relevant ICES sub-areas for the relevant year at a level and on conditions determined in the annual consultations, provided that TACs have been agreed.
(3) The Parties agree to set out arrangements concerning the level and conditions of access from 1 July 2026 to 30 June 2038, which are to be considered as the level and conditions of access determined for the purposes of Article 500(1), (4) and (5) of the Agreement to provide multiannual access to each other’s waters to fish during that period, including in the event of provisional TACs set pursuant to Article 499 of the Agreement.
(4) The respective shares of the Parties set out in Annexes 35 and 36 for 2026 onwards and the provisions of Annex 37 of the Agreement are not affected by this Decision.
(5) In the Common Understanding of 19 May 2025, the European Commission and the United Kingdom noted the political agreement leading to full reciprocal access to waters to fish until 30 June 2038,
(a) full access to fish the stocks listed in Annex 35 and tables A, B and F of Annex 36 of the Agreement in each other’s EEZ and in the waters of the Parties between six and twelve nautical miles from the baselines in ICES divisions 4c and 7d-g at a level that is reasonably commensurate with the Parties’ respective shares of the TACs;
(b) full access to fish the non-quota stocks in each other’s EEZ and in the waters of the Parties between six and twelve nautical miles from the baselines in ICES divisions 4c and 7d-g at a level that at least equates to the average tonnage fished by that Party in the waters of the other Party during the period 2012-2016.
THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,
Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, and in particular Article 43(2) thereof, in conjunction with Article 218(9) thereof,
Having regard to the proposal from the European Commission,
Whereas:
(1) The Trade and Cooperation Agreement between the European Union and the European Atomic Energy Community, of the one part, and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, of the other part (‘the Trade and Cooperation Agreement’ or ‘the Agreement’) was concluded by the Union by means of Council Decision (EU) 2021/689 (1) and entered into force on 1 May 2021, having been provisionally applied since 1 January 2021.
(2) The adjustment period provided for Annex 38 to the Agreement, during which each Party grants full access to vessels of the other Party to its waters to fish, ends on 30 June 2026.
(3) In accordance with Article 500(1) of the Agreement, which applies as of 1 July 2026, each Party is to grant access to vessels of the other Party to fish in its waters in the relevant ICES sub-areas for the relevant year at a level and on conditions determined in the annual consultations, provided that TACs have been agreed.
(4) The Parties wish to set out arrangements concerning the level and conditions of access from 1 July 2026 to 30 June 2038, which are to be considered as the level and conditions of access determined for the purposes of Article 500(1), (4) and (5) of the Agreement and providing full access to waters to fish during that period, including in the event of provisional TACs set pursuant to Article 499 of the Agreement.
(5) Article 508(2)(d) of the Trade and Cooperation Agreement provides that the Specialised Committee on Fisheries may adopt measures, including decisions and recommendations, in relation to any other aspect of cooperation on sustainable fisheries management under Heading Five of Part Two of the Agreement.
(6) Pursuant to Decision No 1/2025 of the Partnership Council interpreting Article 508(2)(d) of the Trade and Cooperation Agreement, the term ‘cooperation on sustainable fisheries management’ in Article 508(2)(d) of the Agreement shall be interpreted as including the adopting of a Decision by the Specialised Committee on Fisheries to provide for multiannual full access to waters to fish for a specified time period which is to be considered for the purposes of Article 500(1) and (4) of the Agreement as the agreed outcome of annual consultations (including in the case of access under Article 500(5) of the Agreement in the event that provisional TACs are set under Article 499 of the Agreement).
(7) It is appropriate to establish the position to be taken on the Union’s behalf in the Specialised Committee on Fisheries on this matter,
HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:
The position to be taken on the Union’s behalf in the Specialised Committee on Fisheries established by the Trade and Cooperation Agreement between the European Union and the European Atomic Energy Community, of the one part, and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, of the other part, as regards the arrangements on the level and conditions of access granted by each Party to vessels of the other Party to fish in its waters, which are to be considered as the level and conditions of access determined for the purposes of Article 500(1), (4) and (5) of the Agreement for the period from 1 July 2026 to 30 June 2038, is set out in the draft Decision of the Specialised Committee on Fisheries attached to this Decision.
This Decision shall enter into force on the date of its adoption.
This Decision sets out the arrangements on the level and conditions of access granted by each Party to vessels of the other Party to fish in its waters, which are to be considered as the level and conditions of access determined for the purposes of Article 500(1), (4) and (5) of the Agreement. For greater certainty, Article 500(2) of the Agreement is unaffected by this Decision.
1. Provided that TACs have been agreed, each Party shall grant vessels of the other Party:
(a) full access to fish the stocks listed in Annex 35 and tables A, B and F of Annex 36 of the Agreement in each other’s EEZ and in the waters of the Parties between six and twelve nautical miles from the baselines in ICES divisions 4c and 7d-g at a level that is reasonably commensurate with the Parties’ respective shares of the TACs;
(b) full access to fish the non-quota stocks in each other’s EEZ and in the waters of the Parties between six and twelve nautical miles from the baselines in ICES divisions 4c and 7d-g at a level that at least equates to the average tonnage fished by that Party in the waters of the other Party during the period 2012-2016. For the purposes of points (a) and (b), full access to fish between six and twelve nautical miles from the baselines in ICES divisions 4c and 7d-g applies for qualifying vessels to the extent that each Party’s qualifying vessels had access to those waters on 31 December 2020. ‘Qualifying vessel’ shall have the same meaning as ‘qualifying vessel’ in Article 500(4) as defined for the purposes of Article 500(4)(c).

2. The access set out in point (a) of paragraph 1 shall also be granted where a stock listed in Annex 35 or in tables A and B of Annex 36 remains without an agreed TAC on 20 December of any given year and each Party has set a provisional TAC pursuant to Article 499 of the Agreement. The same shall apply, mutatis mutandis, to the access set out in point (b) of paragraph 1 to fish non-quota stocks.

3. The arrangements set out in paragraphs 1 and 2 shall not include financial commitments and quota transfers between the Parties.

The Parties may, for reasons of transparency, incorporate the arrangements set out in Article 2 in the Written Records of the annual fisheries consultations referred to in Article 498(6) of the Agreement.
This Decision shall enter into force on the date of its adoption.
It shall apply from 1 July 2026. It shall cease to apply on 30 June 2038 unless the Specialised Committee on Fisheries adopts a decision to extend it.

Council Decision (EU) 2025/1300 of 17 June 2025 establishing the position to be taken on behalf of the European Union in the Partnership Council established by the Trade and Cooperation Agreement between the European Union and the European Atomic Energy Community, of the one part, and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, of the other part, as regards decision No 1/2025 of the Partnership Council

January 13, 2026
Official Journalof the European Union ENL series
2025/1300 2.7.2025
(1) The Trade and Cooperation Agreement between the European Union and the European Atomic Energy Community, of the one part, and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, of the other part (‘the Trade and Cooperation Agreement’ or ‘the Agreement’) was concluded by the Union by means of Council Decision (EU) 2021/689(1)and entered into force on 1 May 2021, having been provisionally applied since 1 January 2021.
(2) Pursuant to Article 519(b) of the Trade and Cooperation Agreement, the Partnership Council established under the Agreement may adopt decisions to issue interpretations of the provisions of Part Two of the Agreement.
(3) Article 508(2)(d) of the Trade and Cooperation Agreement provides that the Specialised Committee on Fisheries established under the Agreement may adopt measures, including decisions and recommendations, in relation to any other aspect of cooperation on sustainable fisheries management under Heading Five of Part Two of the Agreement.
(4) The Partnership Council is to adopt at its next meeting or by written procedure a decision interpreting Article 508(2)(d) of the Trade and Cooperation Agreement.
(5) It is appropriate to establish the position to be taken on the Union’s behalf in the Partnership Council as regards the interpretation of Article 508(2)(d) of the Trade and Cooperation Agreement,
(1) The adjustment period provided for in Annex 38 to the Agreement, during which each Party grants to vessels of the other Party full access to its waters to fish, ends on 30 June 2026.
(2) In accordance with Article 500(1) of the Agreement, which applies after 30 June 2026, each Party is to grant vessels of the other Party access to fish in its waters in the relevant ICES sub-areas for the relevant year at a level and on conditions determined in the annual consultations, provided that TACs have been agreed.
(3) The Parties wish to provide for multiannual full access to waters to fish for a specified time period after June 2026.
(4) Article 508(2)(b) in conjunction with Article 508(1)(l) of the Agreement empowers the Specialised Committee on Fisheries to adopt decisions on the development of guidelines to support the practical application of Article 500 of the Agreement. Moreover, Article 508(2)(d) of the Agreement empowers that Committee to adopt decisions in relation to any other aspect of cooperation on sustainable fisheries management.
(5) It is appropriate, in that context, to issue an interpretation of Article 508(2)(d) of the Agreement to clarify the basis on which the Specialised Committee on Fisheries may adopt such a Decision,
THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,
Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, and in particular Article 43(2) thereof, in conjunction with Article 218(9) thereof,
Having regard to the proposal from the European Commission,
Whereas:
(1) The Trade and Cooperation Agreement between the European Union and the European Atomic Energy Community, of the one part, and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, of the other part (‘the Trade and Cooperation Agreement’ or ‘the Agreement’) was concluded by the Union by means of Council Decision (EU) 2021/689 (1) and entered into force on 1 May 2021, having been provisionally applied since 1 January 2021.
(2) Pursuant to Article 519(b) of the Trade and Cooperation Agreement, the Partnership Council established under the Agreement may adopt decisions to issue interpretations of the provisions of Part Two of the Agreement.
(3) Article 508(2)(d) of the Trade and Cooperation Agreement provides that the Specialised Committee on Fisheries established under the Agreement may adopt measures, including decisions and recommendations, in relation to any other aspect of cooperation on sustainable fisheries management under Heading Five of Part Two of the Agreement.
(4) The Partnership Council is to adopt at its next meeting or by written procedure a decision interpreting Article 508(2)(d) of the Trade and Cooperation Agreement.
(5) It is appropriate to establish the position to be taken on the Union’s behalf in the Partnership Council as regards the interpretation of Article 508(2)(d) of the Trade and Cooperation Agreement,
HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:
The position to be taken on the Union’s behalf in the Partnership Council established by the Trade and Cooperation Agreement between the European Union and the European Atomic Energy Community, of the one part, and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, of the other part, as regards the interpretation of Article 508(2)(d) of that Agreement is set out in the draft decision of the Partnership Council attached to this Decision.
This Decision shall enter into force on the date of its adoption.
The term ‘cooperation on sustainable fisheries management’ in Article 508(2)(d) of the Agreement shall be interpreted, solely for the purpose of that provision, as including the adopting of a decision by the Specialised Committee on Fisheries to provide for multiannual full access to waters to fish for a specified time period which is to be considered for the purposes of Article 500(1) and (4) of the Agreement as the agreed outcome of annual consultations (including in the case of access under Article 500(5) of the Agreement in the event that provisional TACs are set under Article 499 of the Agreement).
This Decision shall enter into force on …