Taoiseach supports Turkey’s moves to join expanding European Union
Ahead of the EU Summit in Athens today where the Accession Treaty will be signed to allow 10 new countries to join the existing 15 EU States, Mr Ahern said he believed the EU will almost double in size by the end of the decade.
Negotiations were also proceeding well with Bulgaria and Romania so that they can join shortly afterwards, Mr Ahern said, also expressing his support for the talks with Turkey.
“And I am pleased to note that joint work on Turkey’s preparations for membership has gathered pace,” he said.
Launching an exhibition on the enlargement of the European Union at the European Commission Office in Dublin, Mr Ahern said the current process was the most significant enlargement of the EU since its foundation in 1958.
“The enlargement of the European Union, which has been for many years an aspiration, is soon to become a reality. It will bring together the countries of Europe, east and west, north and south under the same umbrella. It will pose opportunities and challenges for all of us,” he said.
Yet the Taoiseach acknowledged that had the second Nice Treaty not been passed, events focusing on enlargement would have been very difficult for the Government.
“I look forward to welcoming the accession countries as fellow members of the union on May 1, 2004, when Ireland will be privileged to hold the EU Presidency,” he said.
The implementation of every EU enlargement had taken confidence, vision and imagination, Mr Ahern said.
“On each occasion, the union has shown itself prepared to move forward courageously into uncharted territory. Each enlargement has brought greater stability, prosperity and opportunities to an ever increasing number of Europeans.
“The accession countries, like Ireland, have much to contribute and much to gain from the new Europe as we all share the same basic interests and values,” he said.
“I have no doubt the rich culture and traditions of the new EU members will enhance the diversity and fabric of the union. We share a common goal in the creation of a peaceful, democratic and prosperous Europe.”
