Ambassador Erwan FOUÉRÉ for Macedonian Diplomatic Bulletin

Europe is marking the 50th anniversary of the Treaty of Rome which is seen as one of the fundamental milestones of today's European Union. With it we are celebrating 50 years of continuous unification and advancement of the European continent. If we look back to this period, we can only witness an impressive list of achievements as it has successfully established peace and generated economic and social progress, creating a Europe which has become a powerful example of how insurmountable problems can be overcome by nation states working together, given the political will and the right framework.

There are many vibrant images of this turbulent past to remind us of where we came from in case we forget - perhaps the most poignant is that of the famous Russian musician Mstislav Rostropovich sitting amid the rubble of the Berlin wall in November 1989 playing his cello - a victory celebration of human values over oppression.

Enlargement policy has made a vital contribution to the success of the European Union. Figures speak by themselves as the six founding Members of the European Communities which gathered in Rome in March 1957 have turned 27 at the beginning of 2007. The area of peace, stability and prosperity that the EU represents has successfully superseded the legacy of the Cold War and the division of the continent.

Enlargement has indeed proved to be one of the EU's most powerful policy tools. The pull of the EU has helped to transform Central and Eastern Europe into modern, well-functioning democracies. It now inspires far-reaching reforms in the Western Balkans and in Turkey.

Economically, EU enlargement has helped to increase prosperity and competitiveness enabling the enlarged Union to respond better to the challenges of globalisation.

Politically, EU enlargement has consolidated democracy, human rights and stability across the continent. It has extended the frontiers of peace and the respect for the rule of law. By extending the frontiers of peace and security in a wider European family of nations and peoples, it is providing a beacon of hope and stability in an uncertain world. It is ensuring that never, never and never again must we allow oppression, conflict or the sound of gunfire resonate through these beautiful valleys.

As a candidate country, the Republic of Macedonia*  is an integral part of this process. By obtaining candidate status, the country and its people have demonstrated a strong spirit of determination and capacity to achieve and implement the many reforms required for EU membership.

To achieve that ultimate goal will require consistent effort and perseverance by the government and all the citizens united in this common purpose. The journey is long but a rewarding one. As a small nation with a rich, diverse cultural heritage and distinctive identity, it will take its place as an equal partner with the other nations and peoples of Europe, with pride and confidence in its future role as a member of the EU

The author is Special Representative of the EU and Head of the Delegation of the EC 

*   In the original text the author is using the provisional reference for addressing the Republic of Macedonia as used by the EU.