establish specific agreements in the context of the respective IDA framework contracts for the implementation of the network and security layers;

on the basis of an open call for tenders, establish agreements for the development and validation of the application layer as well as for the feasibility studies;

ensure that all persons involved in the development and validation phases as well as the subsequent feasibility studies are appropriately cleared to handle information classified at least ‘EU CONFIDENTIAL’ according to Decision 2001/264/EC and Commission Decision 2001/844/EC, ECSC, Euratom;

ensure the management of the project in view of the final installation of the CECIS. In this respect, the Commission shall provide and update a general plan and shall coordinate the development, validation, and implementation phases with the participating States, and the selected contractor(s). The Commission shall also take into account the needs and requirements of the participating States;

follow up, validate and test the separate layers and the completed CECIS with the help of the user group;

ensure the training of trainers and that the participating States are regularly informed of the advancement of the project;

ensure security of the project mainly by not permitting unauthorised dissemination of sensitive information;

ensure, via the Commission's Data Centre, that the server is appropriately connected to TESTA and is available on at least the same service level as the rest of the network;

ensure the implementation of the PKI through the Telecommunications Centre;

provide all the necessary support for the implementation phase of the project and ensure necessary maintenance and support thereafter.