THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,
Having regard to the Treaty establishing the European Community and in particular Article 13 thereof,
Having regard to the proposal from the Commission [Not yet published in the Official Journal.],
Having regard to the opinion of the European Parliament [Opinion delivered on 18.5.2000 (not yet published in the Official Journal).],
Having regard to the opinion of the Economic and Social Committee [Opinion delivered on 12.4.2000 (not yet published in the Official Journal).],
Having regard to the opinion of the Committee of the Regions [Opinion delivered on 31.5.2000 (not yet published in the Official Journal).],
Whereas:
(1) The Treaty on European Union marks a new stage in the process of creating an ever closer union among the peoples of Europe.
(2) In accordance with Article 6 of the Treaty on European Union, the European Union is founded on the principles of liberty, democracy, respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, and the rule of law, p
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