Joint Statement by European Council President Konstandinos Simitis, European Commission President Romano Prodi & US President George W. Bush on Transatlantic Aviation Negotiations

Washington, 25 June 2003 

We are pleased to announce our agreement to begin comprehensive air service negotiations between the European Union and the United States in early Autumn, following the early June decision of the Council of the European Union to approve a negotiating mandate for the Commission. This is an historic opportunity to build upon the framework of existing agreements with the goal of opening access to markets and maximising benefits for consumers, airlines, and communities on both sides of the Atlantic. The European Union and the United States will work together in a spirit of cooperation to develop a mutually beneficial approach to this crucial economic sector in a globalised economy.