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EU proposes new rules to control export of dual-use goods

BRUSSELS, Sept 28 (KUNA) -- The European Commission, the EU's executive body, proposed Wednesday new rules to strengthen controls on exports of certain goods and technologies that may be misused for human rights violations, terrorist acts or the development of weapons of mass destruction.
The proposal simplifies and harmonises the existing export control rules, in order to save time and money for EU exporters and national authorities, it said in a press release.
"We are living in turbulent times. Preserving peace and protecting human rights are core objectives of the EU and our trade policy is essential to that aim. That's why we are proposing a set of modern rules to make sure that exports are not misused to threaten international security or undermine human rights", said the EU Commissioner for Trade Cecilia Malmstrom.
The EU is a major producer and exporter of dual-use items. A common EU list of controlled dual-use items contains goods and technologies such as nuclear reactors, cryogenic refrigeration units, explosives, surveillance systems and equipment, and chemicals that can be used as precursors for toxic chemical agents.
The Commission's proposal will now be decided upon by the EU Council of Ministers and the European Parliament. (end) nk.mt