Vol. 509 No. 6
161 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the position of discussions with the Russian authorities bilaterally and through the European Union in relation to year 2000 compliance; and if he has satisfied himself that sufficient advice, assistance and support has been given to ensure that potential disasters in that country will be avoided. [20853/99]
Exchanges with Russia on Y2000 take place within in the framework of the comprehensive partnership and cooperation agreement between the EU and the Russian Federation. Discussions have focused on the effects of Y2000 in a range of areas, including energy, environment, nuclear safety, telecommunication and transport. Russia has provided comprehensive information on the measures taken so far and has indicated that basic functions are not under risk. The EU, for its part, has furnished information and advice to the Russian Federation. Russia has participated in Commission-organised technical seminars on the subject. Other international organisations have also been involved in addressing the Y2000 problem with Russia, e.g. on nuclear safety: technical expert assistance has been made available through the International Atomic Energy Agency. Y2000 projects have also been pursued with the assistance of the World Bank.
The issue remains under active consideration by both sides within the PCA process. However, the Russian authorities have indicated that they consider that they have the matter under control.
