Commission and Palestinian Authority initial trade and cooperation agreement
The European Commission and the Palestinian Authority have reached agreement on the text of an Interim Association Agreement on Trade and Cooperation, within the framework of Euro-Mediterranean cooperation. The Agreement provides for a wide range of economic and financial cooperation, under a support programme for Palestinian industry. The Agreement reflects the status of the Palestinian Authority as a full partner in the Barcelona process of increasing Euro-Mediterranean cooperation. The Agreement is similar to others concluded between the EU and Mediterranean states, but is adapted to take into account the special status of the Palestinian territories. The Agreement will enter into force following its conclusion by both parties.