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Apr 14: Winkler: "Communication on Europe is a task for the whole state" |
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State Secretary Hans Winkler on talks in Stockholm
 Stockholm, 14 April 2008 – "Communication on Europe is a task for the whole state - the Federal Government, the Länder, the Parliament, the social partners, and various institutions. The example of Sweden demonstrates the success that joint efforts can bring about. I believe it is an example worth imitating", said State Secretary Hans Winkler after a meeting he had with European Affairs Minister Cecilia Malmström, State Secretary for Development Cooperation Joakim Stymne, and the Foreign Ministry State Secretary Frank Belfrage.
"It is a disturbing development when negative and pessimistic opinions and false statements by a few, which, for that matter, can be easily refuted and are completely unfounded, sometimes receive more attention in the public than statements by experts favouring an objective debate on European issues. The EU is a successful project. It represents the best response to the impact of globalization. There is no other alternative. The will for positive change, the courage to make decisions with farsightedness, and a European self-confidence must regain the upper hand in the debate, which, of course, should still remain critical."
Another issue addressed during the talks was the EU Reform Treaty, in particular the specification and implementation of the planned adjustments in case the Treaty enters into force in early 2009. "Europe needs a united strong voice towards the outside and quick action and reaction processes on the inside," said the State Secretary in view of various considerations on the specific definition of the position of a High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and that of the President of the European Council, and with regard to the establishment of a European Foreign Service. "The Treaty provides the necessary conditions that keep Europe competitive in an international environment. Should the Treaty fail, we would be left with a status quo (the Treaty of Nice) that is no longer contemporary. This is of no benefit to Europe and its citizens. Therefore, what counts is what we make of this new contractual basis and the EU for each and every citizen."
Contact:
Federal Ministry for
European and international
Affairs Katharina Swoboda
Office of the State Secretary
Tel.: ++43 (0) 50 1150-3469
katharina.swoboda(at)bmeia.gv.at
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