Panorama.am

14:33 09/06/06

DID EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT VICE SPEAKER GIVE EMPTY HOPES?

Just two days ago the Vice Speaker of the European Parliament said
that he does not see any obstacles for Armenia to join EU within next
10 years. Speaking about this statement, Armenian Republican Party
member Armen Ashotyan told a press conference today saying that `the
statement was made to establish some positions in the Armenian
political market. It is obvious that Armenia cannot manage to meet
Copenhagen standards neither in economy nor in politics or law.
Besides, there are unresolved conflicts in the region. Those people
who believe in such statements are hopelessly optimistic.’

He noted that in near future three groups of countries can join EU –
developed European countries that have failed to join the organization
thus far, Baltic states which are in the stage of negotiations and
countries which are already in the process of membership, including
Turkey.

Ashotyan had made earlier forecasts saying that Armenia may join EU
only after 50 years. Those forces which promise membership to EU in
nearer future are only collecting votes, the young politician had
said. /Panorama.am/
From: Baghdasarian