EASTERN & CENTRAL EUROPE

"We actively support the process of economic and political transition under way for over five years in Central and Eastern Europe."

Overall Grade: +1

Assessment

In a policy statement on the 30 January 1997, regarding the German-Czech Declaration, German Chancellor Dr.Helmut Kohl stated that "the construction of the European House remains the central goal of German policy" and that Germany would like to see the accession of the Czech Republic to the EU and NATO as soon as possible.

19 April 1997, German Chancellor Dr.Helmut Kohl met with Polish President Aleksander Kwasniewski . The accession of Poland to the EU and NATO remain policy priorities for both Germany and Poland. Both agreed to work together to ensure a smooth transition.

Regarding the accession of Central and Eastern European Countries to the EU, Germany promises "differentiation without discrimination".

For 1997, the German government has allocated DM 360 million for economic and social development in Central and Eastern Europe and the Former Soviet Republics.