There are proposals under consideration in the context of the intergovernmental conference for the amendment of Article 133 of the European Union Treaty. Article 133 governs the operation of the European Union common commercial policy. The aim of these proposals is to enhance the EU's ability to participate effectively in bilateral and multilateral discussions and negotiations on international trade issues, particularly in the context of future enlargement of the EU. Ireland supports this aim. However, the nature of any amendment or whether amendment is necessary or appropriate has not yet been decided.
The question of altering existing internal Community competences in these areas is not under consideration in the Intergovernmental Conference.