EC unveils enlargement work programme

The European Commission yesterday unveiled its legislative and work programme for 2003 following its recommendation earlier this month that the European Union expand to 25 member states in 2004.

The programme shows how the commission will work for a successful enlargement of the EU, contribute to the stability and security of EU citizens and continue on its work towards a sustainable and inclusive EU economy.

Malta is one of the 10 acceding countries hoping to join in 2004 and commission president Romano Prodi yesterday said that making EU enlargement a success was a historic task "faced by our generation".

"Earlier this month we recommended that the EU should welcome 10 new states in 2004. Now the commission is setting out what it will do in 2003 to make that a reality," he said.

"Enlargement preparations are vital. To ensure that the enlarged Union is successful, we are also prioritising stability and security and the sustainable and inclusive economy."

The new programme sets out the commission's political priorities which include assisting and monitoring the candidate countries' preparations for accession, preparing the commission to serve an enlarged EU effectively from day one of accession, and reviewing community policies so they respond to the needs of an enlarged EU.

It also helps the council to adopt the necessary legislation to create an area of freedom, security and justice; improve transport safety and civil protection; safeguard the borders of an enlarged EU; respond to crises in the world and develop better international understanding.

Another priority is working towards the goal of making the EU the leading knowledge-based economy in the world; maintaining macro-economic stability; promoting sustainable development and working to share the positive effects of globalisation evenly around the world.

For the first time the programme also contains a list of proposals on which the commission will carry out extended impact assessments in 2003. This new tool supports better policy making and sustainable development.

Mr Prodi will formally present the programme to the general affairs and external relations council on November 18 and to the European Parliament on November 20.