On occasion of Portugal’s assuming EU presidency on 1 July 2007

On the occasion of the Portuguese Republic’s assuming the presidency of the European Union, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and European Integration would like to express its expectations that during Portugal’s presidency, the European Council’s conclusions on the amendments to the basic EU legislation will be fully implemented, which will at the same time lay firm foundations for further enlargement and development of the EU, as well as Croatia’s admission to full membership.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and European Integration expects a significant number of negotiation chapters to be opened during Portugal’s presidency, which will create the preconditions for closing the chapters during 2008 and the realisation of Croatia’s plans and expectations as regards joining the EU.