Energy Charter Treaty

72 referred to in subparagraph (b)(ii), lead to a delay of proceedings under Articles 26 and 27. (6) For the avoidance of doubt, Article 14 shall not limit the right of a Contracting Party to impose or collect a tax by withholding or other means. (7) For the purposes of this Article: (a) The term “Taxation Measure” includes: (i) any provision relating to taxes of the domestic law of the Contracting Party or of a political subdivision thereof or a local authority therein; and (ii) any provision relating to taxes of any convention for the avoidance of double taxation or of any other international agreement or arrangement by which the Contracting Party is bound. (b) There shall be regarded as taxes on income or on capital all taxes imposed on total income, on total capital or on elements of income or of capital, including taxes on gains from the alienation of property, taxes on estates, inheritances and gifts, or substantially similar taxes, taxes on the total amounts of wages or salaries paid by enterprises, as well as taxes on capital appreciation. (c) A “Competent Tax Authority” means the competent authority pursuant to a double taxation agreement in force between the Contracting Parties or, when no such agreement is in force, the minister or ministry responsible for taxes or their authorised representatives. (d) For the avoidance of doubt, the terms “tax provisions” and “taxes” do not include customs duties. Article 22: State and Privileged Enterprises [UNDERSTANDING With respect to Articles 22 and 23 With regard to trade in Energy Materials and Products governed by Article 29, that Article specifies the provisions relevant to the subjects covered by Articles 22 and 23.] 64 64 Final Act of the European Energy Charter Conference, Understanding 14.