be necessary to ensure effective co-operation. ARTICLE 13 ANNEXES 1. Any subsidiary agreement adopted in accordance with Article 10 of this Protocol shall be annexed to this Protocol. 2. Annexes to this Protocol may be amended or terminated by the Council of Ministers. ARTICLE 14 SETTLEMENT OF DISPUTES 1. Any dispute arising between two or more Member States from the interpretation or application of this Protocol which cannot be settled amicably shall be referred to the Tribunal established under Article 9 of the Treaty for adjudication. 2. If a dispute pertaining to this Protocol arises between SADC and a Member State, a request shall be made by the Council of Ministers for an advisory opinion in accordance with Article 16 of the Treaty. ARTICLE 15 WITHDRAWAL 1. Any Member State may withdraw from this Protocol upon the expiry of twelve months from the date of giving written notice to that effect to the Executive Secretary of SADC. 2. Such Member State shall cease to enjoy all rights and benefits under this Protocol upon the withdrawal becoming effective. 3. During the twelve months period of notice referred to in paragraph 1 of this Article such Member State shall comply with the provisions of this Protocol and shall continue to be bound by its obligations. 4. A Member State that has withdrawn can apply for readmission upon approval by twothirds of Member States that are signatories to the Protocol. ARTICLE 16 SAVING PROVISIONS Nothing contained in this Protocol shall derogate or be construed to derogate from existing agreements entered into between two or more Member States or a Member State and a non-SADC State and/or Organisation on any activity related to the Mining Sector, provided that Member States shall endeavour to give effect to such agreements and any rights acquired or obligations assumed thereunder in conformity with the general principles prescribed in Article 2 of this Protocol. ARTICLE 17 SIGNATURE This Protocol shall be signed by the Heads of State or Government, or their duly