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The speech of the Prime Minister of the Czech Republic Václav Klaus at the EU Summit in Dublin

English Pages, 14. 12. 1996

Dear Mr. Prime Minister, Dear Colleagues, Distinguished Guests,

I am glad that the tradition of meetings between the Heads of states and of governments of the European Union and associated countries continues successfully here, in Dublin, the Irish Republic. I wish to express my gratitude to Prime Minister Bruton for inviting us to attend this summit.

We have followed with great interest the developments of the intergovernmental conference over the past six months. We realize that the Dublin Summit is - in a way - crucial, because the first version of a written document which should be a basis for the new agreement of all Member states about the future form of the Union - is being presented here. In the latest discussions, we also noticed a new aspect which we understand and share, and that is the topic of flexibility.

We noted as well another, not less important topic, connected with the European Monetary Union, the so-called Stability Pact representing an additional step to the strengthening of the credibility of the future European currency.

The past half a year has been not less interesting on the political scene in the Czech Republic. I would like to remind you that a few weeks ago, we finally completed forming our constitutional system by the elections to the upper chamber of our Parliament - the Senate. The outcome of the Senate elections gives another assurance of our stability and continuity. The Senate elections in the Czech Republic brought about a major victory to the parties of the present coalition government. This result proved that the transformation policy in the Czech Republic has enjoyed a continuous support of the public. The elections also confirmed the European orientation of our country and the membership in the European Union as a clear priority of our foreign policy.

In this respect, a few important events have taken place since our last meeting. First of all, we have completed and submitted the questionnaire of the European Commission. This questionnaire has become one of the most detailed descriptions of the Czech Republic ever written. That is why the process of completing it gave us a valuable reflection of our present reality together with many stimulating ideas and suggestions.

For us, the year 1997 will be, more than anything else, a year full of work, a year of intensification of our cooperation with the EU. The Government, of which I am the Prime Minister, holds - and has always held - a clear mandate and straighforward intentions in this regard.

Before closing, I wish to say a few words on the topic which has also been discussed here, namely the fight against organized crime. The Government of the Czech Republic is fully aware of this serious problem and solving it is one of our priorities. At the same time, we know that a progress in this direction which transcedes individual states, requires a well-coordinated international cooperation - in the field of justice, police and exchange of information.

To conclude, we notice with satisfaction that we are moving ahead.
Whenever there was a political will to arrive at a conclusion, the solution has been found. I consider this fact as very promising. We believe that, in the future, this will continue as well.

Václav Klaus, Dublin, 14. December 1996