9 Article 12 Committee of Senior Trade Officials 1. The Committee of Senior Trade Officials shall consist of Permanent or Principal Secretaries or other officials designated by each State Party. 2. The Committee of Senior Trade Officials shall: (a) implement the decisions of the Council of Ministers as may be directed; (b) be responsible for the development of programmes and action plans for the implementation of the Agreement; (c) monitor and keep under constant review and ensure proper functioning and development of the AfCFTA in accordance with the provisions of this Agreement; (d) establish committees or other working groups as may be required; (e) oversee the implementation of the provisions of this Agreement and for that purpose, may request a Technical Committee to investigate any particular matter; (f) direct the Secretariat to undertake specific assignments; and (g) perform any other function consistent with this Agreement or as may be requested by the Council of Ministers. 3. Subject to directions given by the Council of Ministers, the Committee of Senior Trade Officials shall meet at least twice a year and shall operate in accordance with the rules of procedures as adopted by the Council of Ministers. 4. The Committee shall submit its report, which may include recommendations, to the Council of Ministers following its meetings. 5. The RECs shall be represented in the Committee of Senior Trade Officials, in an advisory capacity. Article 13 The Secretariat 1. The Assembly shall establish the Secretariat, decide on its nature, location and approve its structure and budget. 2. The Commission shall be the interim Secretariat, until it is fully operational;