Tatarella (UEN). – (IT) Mr President, ladies and gentlemen, I am speaking on behalf of the Union of Europe of the Nations Group and the Italian delegation of Alleanza Nazionale. Tomorrow we shall be voting in favour of the resolution, and we applaud the signature of the Treaty and the subsequent accession of Bulgaria and Romania to the European Union.

Since 1989, all successive Romanian Governments have set as their sole and overriding aim the country’s accession to the European Union. The path has been tortuous and difficult, but there is no doubt that significant progress has been made. Above all, in recent years the Bucharest Government has made great strides. The Commission is aware of this and, in its 1997 report on compliance with the political criteria, acknowledged the huge reform efforts made by that country – the consolidation of democracy, the rule of law and respect for minorities, as well as reforms in the area of public administration. Problems undoubtedly still exist, but we must have confidence.