119. The secretariat informed WP.29 of the most recent activities of the UNRSF project with a focus on the side event on “Used Cars for Africa” organized by UNECE at the 75th Anniversary celebration of ITC. She further explained the impact of the side event on the UNRSF project. Following her presentation, the Chair of WP.29 recalled the decision of the World Forum to establish an Informal Working Group “IWG” on “Safer and Cleaner Used and New Vehicles” and invited WP.29 to participate in activities of this IWG.

120. The representative of the United States sought guidance from WP.29 related to the terms of reference for the IWG on “Safer and Cleaner Used and New Vehicles” to ensure that in the work of the informal working group, there are no technical barriers to trade imposed as a result of the establishment of the requirements for the import and export of vehicles.

121. The Secretariat noted that letters were sent to all the missions in Geneva to ensure that the group is inclusive in its establishment. He also highlighted that the starting points for discussions will be the international regulatory framework established under the three vehicle Agreements. However, reference to equivalent national standards would be provided for items not yet covered under the above mentioned agreements in order to be inclusive as much as possible.

122. The representative of the Netherlands intervened to suggest that for the first meeting of the IWG, that the objective when setting up the terms of reference should be to establish manageable goals which are not overly complex and would have a negative impact on the industry while meeting the established objectives of the IWG.

123. The representative of the UK recalled that with Revision 3 of the 1958 Agreement provisions were included providing for the issuing of approvals in accordance to earlier versions of UN Regulations to facilitate an entry level for countries in different economic situation.

124. The representative of CITA stated that the provisions should be realistic and economically sustainable.

125. WP.29 agreed to discuss further the details of the terms of reference at the first session of the IWG on “Safer and Cleaner Used and New Vehicles” taking into account the suggestions made by delegates.