29.4.2006 Official Journal of the European Union L 116/73 (Acts adopted under Title V of the Treaty on European Union) COUNCIL DECISION 2006/317/CFSP of 10 April 2006 concerning the conclusion of the Agreement between the European Union and the Republic of Croatia on security procedures for the exchange of classified information THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION, Having regard to the Treaty on European Union, and in particular Articles 24 and 38 thereof, Having regard to the recommendation from the Presidency, Whereas: (1) At its meeting on 27 and 28 November 2003, the Council decided to authorise the Presidency, assisted by the Secretary-General[High Representative (SG/HR), to open negotiations in accordance with Articles 24 and 38 of the Treaty on European Union with certain third States, in order for the European Union to conclude an Agreement with each of them on security procedures for the exchange of classified information. (2)  Following this authorisation to open negotiations, the Presidency, assisted by the SG/HR, negotiated an Agreement with the Republic of Croatia on security procedures for the exchange of classified information. (3)  The Agreement should be approved, HAS DECIDED AS FOLLOWS: Article 1 The Agreement between the European Union and the Republic of Croatia on security procedures for the exchange of classified information is hereby approved on behalf of the European Union. The text of the Agreement is attached to this Decision. Article 2 The President of the Council is hereby authorised to designate the person(s) empowered to sign the Agreement in order to bind the European Union. Article 3 This Decision shall take effect on the date of its adoption. Article 4 This Decision shall be published in the Official Journal of the European Union. Done at Luxembourg, 10 April 2006. For the Council The President U. PLASSNIK