Cowen in Talks with President Havel
The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr. Brian Cowen T.D., has reiterated Ireland's commitment to the enlargement of the European Union.
Speaking in Prague after a meeting with the President of the Czech Republic, Václav Havel, the Minister said that, “Irish public opinion remains very supportive of the enlargement process. The result of the recent referendum in Ireland does not represent a rejection of enlargement by the Irish people. The Government remains fully committed to assisting the enlargement negotiations with applicant countries within the timetable envisaged.”
During their meeting the Minister assured President Havel of the Irish Government's belief that the Czech Republic is likely to be among the first group of accessions countries ready to join the European Union by the end of 2002.
Minister Cowen's official visit continues tomorrow with talks with the Prime Minister, Miloš Zeman, the Foreign Minister, Jan Kavan, and other senior parliamentary representatives.
