The European Council has agreed that a Community wide solution is necessary in the discussions with the Russian Federation regarding the announced possible restrictions on EU exports of animal products as of January 1, 2007.

The Council expressed its support of the Commission in finding a mutually agreed solution before December 31, during the current ongoing discussions in Moscow between Commissioner Kyprianou and Russian authorities.

The Council will continue its assessment of the situation after hearing a report on the outcome of the discussions in Moscow.