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EU relations with the countries of the Mediterranean take place within the Barcelona process which brings together the EU 15 with 12 countries of the Mediterranean littoral for cooperation on political and security matters, economic cooperation leading to free trade, and social and cultural cooperation A series of regional cooperation initiatives and a network of bilateral relationships underpin this framework. Although the process is affected by the lack of a lasting peace in the Middle East, it has been effective in maintaining dialogue since it was established in 1995 and provides a forum where Israel and the Arab states continue to meet.
Association agreements have entered into force between the EU and Morocco, Tunisia, Israel and the Palestinian Authority. Such Agreements have also been signed with Jordan and with Egypt, with the first, at least, due to enter into force very soon. Negotiations are proceeding with Algeria, Lebanon and Syria with a good prospect of concluding the first two before the end of 2001. The remaining three partners (Cyprus, Malta and Turkey) are covered by preexisting agreements and are themselves on the accession path. In addition, the Barcelona process provides for the conclusion of free trade agreements between the partners (``SouthSouthAgreements''); the EU has therefore strongly welcomed, and offered its support to, the Agadir process launched on 8 Mai 2001 in which Morocco, Tunisia, Egypt and Jordan have agreed to establish free trade with each other.
In November 2000, the 27 foreign ministers agreed to reinvigorate EuroMediterranean cooperation and set ambitious new targets to carry forward the Barcelona process. Work has since been stepped up. The tragic events of 11 September 2001, however, have shown that there is a need for still closer cooperation, not least in social, cultural and educational areas. The Barcelona process provides an excellent framework for this purpose.
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