Transport, Telecommunications and Energy Council, 06-07/06/2016, 6-7 June 2016

Main results

Energy

This proposal is a major step that will enhance the transparency and consistency of the EU's external energy relations. The aim is to correct shortcomings in the current information exchange mechanism and bring us closer towards the Energy Union.  This will further enhance the proper functioning of the internal energy market and the security of energy supply in the European Union.” Henk Kamp, the Dutch Minister for Economic Affairs and chair of the meeting

The Council agreed a general approach on the proposal for a decision establishing an information exchange mechanism with regard to intergovernmental agreements (IGA) and non-binding instruments between member states and third countries in the field of energy.

The aim of the proposed decision - which is one of the building blocks of the Energy Union Strategy - is to enhance the transparency and consistency of the EU's external energy relations and to strengthen its negotiating stance vis-à-vis third countries. It will also contribute to the proper functioning of the internal energy market.

The compromise reached was based on the following elements:

• the Commission will conduct an assessment of gas-related IGAs before they are signed,
• member states shall keep the Commission informed both before the start and regularly during the negotiations of all IGAs,
• member states may request the previous assessment for other non-gas related IGAs,
• all non-gas related IGAs shall be notified to the Commission "upon ratification",
• non-binding instruments will not have to be notified.

The agreement on the general approach will allow the Council to start negotiations with the European Parliament with a view to the final adoption of the proposal.

The Council discussed the proposal for a revised regulation concerning measures to safeguard the security of gas supply.

The main purpose of the proposal is to minimise the impact of a potential gas disruption by improving cooperation between member states and by building on the achievements of the internal energy market. It also aims to increase trust and solidarity at the regional and EU level.

The debate focused on the following issues:

• Enhanced regional cooperation and coordination,
• New solidarity principle which will have a mandatory application in extreme crisis scenarios,
• Transparency requirements, in particular with regard to commercial long term gas contracts.

• Energy union: secure, sustainable, competitive and affordable energy for Europe

Transport

The Council adopted mandates which will enable the Commission to launch negotiations on comprehensive air transport agreements with four key partners: the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Turkey. Once concluded, these agreements will replace the bilateral aviation agreements that member states currently have with these countries.

Today we took important steps to boost the competitive strength and sustainability of the European transport sector. The Council agreed on new rules for inland navigation, adopted four new aviation mandates and discussed a common approach to tackle emissions from diesel cars.” Melanie Schultz van Haegen, the Dutch Minister for Infrastructure and the Environment and chair of the Council meeting

The Council also agreed on a general approach on new rules concerning the recognition of professional qualifications in inland navigation. The draft directive sets up a uniform system of certification across the EU for the entire crew, from apprentices to boat masters. It will create better career prospects and promote job mobility across borders.

• Inland navigation: Council agrees its position on a uniform system of professional qualifications

Ministers held a policy debate on nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions from diesel cars. Ministers considered that efforts should be made to clarify the application of existing legislation on defeat devices in order to reduce NOx emissions from vehicles. In parallel, relevant type approval rules are currently being revised and we are close to the introduction of mandatory 'real driving emissions' tests.

In addition, ministers discussed the contribution of the EU to the ongoing talks in ICAO on a global market-based measure to cut CO2 emissions from international aviation, in preparation of the next ICAO Assembly. The Council also took note of progress made on a proposal to revise the current regulatory framework on aviation safety, which includes the first-ever EU-wide rules on the use of drones and important new provisions on safety-related security matters.