Artikel 1

1. The Contracting Parties adopt the provisions of this Agreement as a coordinated plan for the development and construction of a network of inland waterways, hereinafter referred to as the “network of inland waterways of international importance” or “E waterway network”, which they intend to undertake within the framework of their relevant programmes. The E waterway network, in terms of this Agreement, consists of inland waterways and coastal routes used by sea-river vessels as well as ports of international importance situated on those waterways and routes, as described in annexes I and II to this Agreement.
2. The Contracting Parties shall take necessary measures with a view to effectively protect the envisaged route of the portions of E waterways, with due regard to their future parameters, which do not exist at present but which are included in relevant infrastructure development programmes until the date when the decision on their construction is taken.