european communities – regime for the importation,

sale and distribution of bananas

Communication from the United States

            The following communication, dated 26 June 2001, from the Permanent Mission of the United States to the Chairman of the Dispute Settlement Body, is circulated at the request of that delegation.

_______________

            For the information of all Members, please find attached the text of the Understanding reached between the European Communities (EC) and the United States on 11 April 2001.

            We have received and reviewed the EC's separate notification of 22 June 2001, to the Dispute Settlement Body (DSB) of our Understanding on bananas.  As we have explained to the EC during bilateral discussions last week and indicated at meetings of the DSB, the Understanding identifies the means by which the long-standing dispute over the EC's banana import regime can be resolved, but, as is obvious from its own text, it does not in itself constitute a mutually agreed solution pursuant to Article 3.6 of the DSU.  In addition, in view of the steps yet to be taken by all parties, it would also be premature to take this item off the DSB agenda.

            The United States very much looks forward to the prospect of a resolution to this long‑standing dispute, and we will of course continue to be pleased to consult with the Commission and other interested parties as the EC proceeds with implementing its regulations in accordance with the Understanding.