Local view for "http://purl.org/linkedpolitics/eu/plenary/2005-07-06-Speech-3-470"
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"en.20050706.35.3-470"2
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".
Mr President, Commissioner, ladies and gentlemen, in matters relating to enlargement, I do believe that quality should matter more than quantity. The development and stability of the continent of Europe is to a large degree dependent on the simultaneous deepening and enlargement of the European Union. Particularly in the Balkans, every extra square metre of European soil that sustains democracy, the rule of law and human rights also adds to the space in which conflicts can be peacefully resolved.
Enlargement must not, however, be taken too fast. Every country must fulfil the requisite accession criteria: not only on paper but also in practice, in a reality that the people can apprehend.
Even though Bulgaria and Romania have made great strides since the fall of their Communist regimes, I find it regrettable that neither has yet developed much in the way of a political culture. There are still too many problems involved in doing away with the cumbersome bureaucracy, despite the positive efforts that have been made to that end. What is worthy of criticism is the failure to make much headway in reforming the justice system, the widespread corruption in the police and the judiciary, considerable shortfalls in the integration of minorities, the poor economic development and social and environmental problems.
The shocking success of the extreme right-wing Ataka party in the Bulgarian elections, which got into parliament with 8% of the vote, has done nothing to improve the overall political climate. It is to be feared that this will make the task of forming a government more difficult and further slow the progress of reforms.
What is important is that we send a signal to those who hold responsibility in both countries. Unlike most members of my group, I am persuaded that we should invite observers to this House only after the progress report has appeared and a decision on accession has been taken. We should make clear to the governments in Bucharest and Sofia the fact that major reforms are still needed and that the sprint down the home straight to accession will not be accomplished without effort."@en1
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