Artikel 2

1. The primary objective of EUMETSAT is to establish, maintain and exploit European systems of operational meteorological satellites, taking into account as far as possible the recommendations of the World Meteorological Organization.
A further objective of EUMETSAT is to contribute to the operational monitoring of the climate and the detection of global climatic changes.
2. The definition of the initial system is contained in Annex I; further systems shall be established as defined in Article 3.
3. In the execution of its objectives, EUMETSAT shall:
(a) take maximum advantage of the technologies developed in Europe in particular in the field of meteorological satellites by providing for operational continuation of the programmes that have proved technically successful and cost-effective;
(b) rely as appropriate on the capabilities of the existing international organisations carrying out activities in a similar field;
(c) contribute to the development of space meteorology techniques and meteorological observing systems using satellites that may lead to improved services at optimum cost.
4. For the purpose of achieving its objectives EUMETSAT shall, as far as possible, and in conformity with meteorological tradition, cooperate with the Governments and national organisations of the Member States, as well as with Non-Member States and governmental and non-governmental international scientific and technical organisations whose activities are related to its objectives. EUMETSAT may conclude agreements to that end.
5. The General Budget comprises activities not linked to a specific programme. They shall represent the basic technical and administrative infrastructure of EUMETSAT including basic staff, buildings and equipment as well as preliminary activities authorised by the Council in preparation of future programmes not yet approved.
6. The programmes of EUMETSAT shall include mandatory programmes in which all Member States participate and optional programmes with participation by those Member States that agree so to do.
7. Mandatory programmes are:
a) The METEOSAT Operational Programme (MOP) as defined in Annex 1 of the Convention;
b) The basic programmes required to continue the provision of observations from geostationary and polar orbits;
c) Other programmes as defined as such by the Council.
8. Optional programmes are programmes within the objectives of EUMETSAT agreed as such by the Council.
9. EUMETSAT may, outside the programmes referred to in paragraphs 6, 7 and 8 above but not in conflict with the objectives of EUMETSAT, carry out activities requested by third parties and approved by the Council in accordance with Article 5.2(a). The cost of such activities shall be borne by the third party concerned.