EU absorption capacity is primarily a question of informing public opinion

2.25.00pm GMT Wed 13th Dec 2006

Annemie Neyts (VLD, Belgium), ALDE spokesperson on foreign affairs commented on the debate and vote today in Parliament on the EU's enlargement strategy by defending the sensible and balanced approach taken by the European Commission over enlargement strategy.

"The whole debate on EU absorption capacity over the past year has been a specious and disingenuous one inspired largely by national capitals who feared the impact of public opinion. It is important for politicians to listen to what the electorate are saying but it is equally important that political leaders do not neglect to explain and justify their decisions and strategy in bringing in new Member States and encouraging the development of democracy and stability in our near neighbourhood."

Andrew Duff (UK, Lib Dem), ALDE constitutional affairs spokesman also remarked on how this enlargement debate should be addressed in discussions on Europe's constitutional text:

"As we approach the reconsideration of the constitutional treaty, it would be sensible to include in Part III a new chapter on enlargement policy, inserting the Copenhagen criteria and describing more clearly the EU's accession process and threshold. Consideration should also be given to creating a new, special category of EU associate membership. "

"Such an improvement would serve to reassure public opinion about the quality of enlargement, and about the pace of expansion of Europe's new post-national society. It would also be of use to third countries as they contemplate their future relationship with the EU."