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Tuesday, November 16, 2004

Civil society asks clarification from Verheugen on EU talks

Several of the most prominent Romanian civil society organizations as Romanian Think Tank, The Romanian Academic Society, the Pro Democracy Association and the Association for Defending Human Rights - Helsinki Committee yesterday sent a letter to European Commissioner for Enlargement Gunter Verheugen, asking for clarifications about his statements regarding Romania's accession talks with the European Union.

Two weeks ago the Commissioner said Romania might complete negotiations by November 24, four days before the general elections. His statement was interpreted by local media and the political opposition as indirect support for the current administration in view of upcoming elections.

Romanian Think Tank Managing Director Mark Percival said the organizations' initiative came because Verheugen's statement differed from the recent European Commission country report, which did not state that accession negotiations might be completed by November 24.
"The date is highly sensitive politically, since completion of the accession negotiations only four days before the elections would give a clear advantage to Romania's current government," said Percival.

SAR Executive Director, Sorin Ionita, said the organizations needed clarifications about the date when talks will actually be completed, considering Verheugen's view does not line up with those expressed by Romanian authorities.

President of the Pro Democracy Association (APD) Cristian Pirvulescu said the association signed the RTT letter as it considered Verheugen's statements "risky." Moreover, interpretations it might spur inside the public opinion should be avoided, said Pirvulescu.

Posted by Iulia Rasoiu : 11/16/2004 10:23:00 am