Article 1 Purpose of the cooperation

The aim of this Framework Agreement is to address the following issues:

1. 1..

   The coherent and progressive development of an overall European Space Policy. Specifically, this policy shall seek to link demand for services and applications using space systems in support of the Community policies with the supply of space systems and infrastructure necessary to meet that demand.

2. 2..

   The establishment of a framework providing a common basis and appropriate operational arrangements for an efficient and mutually beneficial cooperation between the Parties with regard to space activities in accordance with their respective tasks and responsibilities and fully respecting their institutional settings and operational frameworks. The cooperation under this Framework Agreement between the Parties aims at:

   1. (a)

      securing Europe's independent and cost-effective access to space and the development of other fields of strategic interest necessary for the independent use and application of space technologies in Europe;

   2. (b)

      ensuring that the overall European Space Policy takes into particular account the general policies pursued by the European Community;

   3. (c)

      supporting Community policies by using space technologies and space infrastructures where appropriate and promoting the use of space systems in support of sustainable development, economic growth and employment;

   4. (d)

      optimising the use of expertise and available resources and contributing to the consolidation of the close cooperation between the European Community and ESA, thereby linking the demand and supply of space systems within a strategic partnership;

   5. (e)

      achieving greater coherence and synergy of research and development in order to optimise the use of resources available in Europe, including the network of technical centres.