Europe is facing some difficult challenges, but the incoming Presidency sees these challenges as opportunities. Managing the financial crisis and unemployment and addressing the climate change will be the two main priorities.
A third priority is the Lisbon Treaty enabling an enlarging Union of 27 to function in an effective fashion. The Swedish Presidency is ready to handle all the preparatory work needed to make this possible, subject to the Treaty being ratified by all Member States.
But the Presidency will also address other issues. Enlargement is one. Continued progress is a must.
In particular, Sweden will work to further strengthening the membership perspective of the Western Balkan countries - progress based on the concrete results made in each and every country.
It should be said again: The enlargement of the Union has strengthened the Union. It has reinforced its security and increased its influence on the global stage. It has led to a higher level of prosperity and to cultural diversity.
After all, the purpose of the European Union is to make people’s lives better.
Visa liberalization is high on the agenda. Hopefully a decision bringing Serbia on the white Schengen list will be taken under the Swedish Presidency.
Sweden and Serbia share a lot. More than 100 000 Swedish citizens have their roots in Serbia and can proudly define themselves as both Swedish and Serbian. Most of all – Sweden and Serbia share the future in Europe.
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