AGREEMENT IN THE FORM OF AN EXCHANGE OF LETTERS

concerning the provisional application of the Protocol setting out, for the period from 1 June 1999 to 31 May 2002, the fishing opportunities and the financial contribution provided for by the Agreement between the European Community and the Government of the Democratic Republic of São Tomé e Principe on fishing off the Coast of São Tomé e Principe

A. Letter from the Government of the Democratic Republic of São Tomé e Principe

Sir,

With reference to the Protocol initialled on 31 may 1999 setting out fishing opportunities and financial compensation for the period from 1 June 1999 to 31 May 2002, I have the honour to inform you that the Government of the Democratic Republic of São Tomé e Principe is prepared to apply the Protocol on a provisional basis with effect from 1 June 1999, pending its entry into force in accordance with Article 7 of the said Protocol, provided the European Community is disposed to do the same.

This is on the understanding that the first instalment of the financial compensation specified in Article 2 of the Protocol is paid by 31 October 1999.

I should be obliged if you would confirm the European Community's agreement to such provisional application.

Please accept, Sir, the assurance of my highest consideration.

For the Government of the Democratic Republic of São Tomé e Principe

B. Letter from the European Community

Sir,

I have the honour to acknowledge receipt of your letter of today's date, which reads as follows:

"With reference to the Protocol initialled on 31 May 1999 setting out fishing opportunities and financial compensation for the period from 1 June 1999 to 31 May 2002, I have the honour to inform you that the Government of the Democratic Republic of São Tomé e Principe is prepared to apply the Protocol on a provisional basis with effect from 1 June 1999, pending its entry into force in accordance with Article 7 of the said Protocol, provided the European Community is disposed to do the same.

This is on the understanding that the first instalment of the financial compensation specified in Article 2 of the Protocol is paid by 31 October 1999.

I should be obliged if you would confirm the European Community's agreement to such provisional application."

I have the honour to confirm the European Community's agreement to such provisional application.

Please accept, Sir, the assurance of my highest consideration.

On behalf of the Council of the European Union