Message from the EU Presidency in Jakarta
On the occasion of the Europe Day, commemorating the Declaration of Robert Schuman, who proposed courageously, since the memories of war were still close by, the very first step towards building the European Community, France, in its capacity as President of the European Union, is proud to see the achievements in 45 years, namely the growth, extension and consolidation of today's European Union. With initially six members forming the European Economic Community in 1957, then nine in 1973, 10 in 1981, 12 in 1986 and 15 this year, the European Union is today the world's most advanced form of multi-sectoral integration.
Under the French Presidency, which started on Jan. 1 and lasts for six months, the European Union has moved further in the implementation of our common foreign and security policy, with the main objectives of ensuring stability in Europe and strengthening ties with other regions, in particular Asia. In this regard, along with the active and constructive support of Indonesia, we look forward to building upon the results of the ASEAN-European Union ministerial meeting, which took place in Karlsruhe last September, to broaden our dialog and increase the mutual interest of the governments, the private sector and the individuals, in the prospects of enlarging contacts and joint activities between the nations belonging to both organizations.
Moreover, France is highly confident that the current endeavors aiming at organizing a high level meeting between Asian countries and the European Union, in early 1996, will be a full success, enabling us to strengthen and develop further our ongoing dialog and cooperation.
On this day of the celebration of Europe, France, along with its 14 partners, would like to reiterate our joint strong determination to promote peace, prosperity and cooperation, among the countries of the European Union. On this date, symbolizing unity and amity, France wishes to associate the Indonesian authorities and people, who share the same ideals, to this celebration. On behalf of the EU, I would like to avail myself of this opportunity to, in turn, wish Indonesia all success and prosperity during this year of commemoration of the 50th anniversary of its independence.
Mrs. Martine Dorance
Charge d'Affaires a.i.
French Embassy