THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,
Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,
Having regard to Council Regulation (EU) No 407/2010 of 11 May 2010 establishing a European financial stabilisation mechanism(1), and in particular Article 3(2) thereof,
Having regard to the proposal from the European Commission,
Whereas:
(1) Upon a request by Portugal, the Council granted financial assistance to it (Implementing Decision 2011/344/EU(2)) in support of a strong economic and financial reform programme aiming at restoring confidence, enabling the return of the economy to sustainable growth, and safeguarding financial stability in Portugal, the euro area and the Union.
(2) An extension of maturities and a reduction in the interest rate margin would be beneficial to secure the programme’s objectives, in line with the conclusions of the Heads of State or Government of the euro area and Union institutions of 21 July 2011 regarding European Financial Stability Facility lending.
(3) In order to enhance liquidity and sustainability objectives, the extension of maturities and the reduction in the interest rate margin should also apply to the tranches that have already been disbursed.
(4) In light of these developments, Implementing Decision 2011/344/EU should be amended,
HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION: