MACEDONIAN PRESS AGENCY SPECIAL REPORT (96-06-21)

From: Macedonian Press Agency <mpa@philippos.mpa.gr>

Macedonian Press Agency News in English Directory

PREMIER SPEAKS ON THE INVIOLABILITY OF THE EU'S BORDERS

Florence, June 21 (M.P.A.)

Mr. Simitis spoke during the first-day session of the Council of Europe, while the subject of the Inter- Governmental Conference (ICG) was being discussed.

According to Mr. Simtis, Greece considers that the application of internaitional law is a necessary prerequisite for the aims of a common foreign policy.

Moreover, the Premier emphaszied that the ICG is of foremost significance for Greece, although it constitutes one step in a series of negotiations which will include the issue of EU's expansion to include Cyprus. Mr. Simitis characterized these negotiations as ones that will play a determining role in the shaping of the European Union's entrance to the 21st century.

Speaking on the issue of unemployment, Mr. Simitis stated that the issue has taken vast dimensions in the Continent which are connencted with society and the economies of the EU member-states.

Mr. Simitis also stated that the wider legitimacy of the Union's function is mostly filtered through the strengthening of the European Parliament, which is the only body that is represented by all people.

Referring to the future of the ICG, Mr. Simitis stated that all of the member-states' points of views have been recorded and all are in a position to assess those issues that enjoy as consensus, as well as those for which there is juxtaposition.

Finally, the Premier added, Ireland's EU Presidency, which follows Italy's, must press on with the achievements accomplished in the ICG in order to prepare a report on the processes made to date.

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