Malta: accession to the European Union and progress in negotiations

The Committee adopted report on the progress made towards accession accession application by Malta. Overall, while the report draws attention to the remaining problems, it welcomes the progress achieved. However, it also stresses that the reforms being made by these countries must be accompanied by measures to alleviate their social consequence. The Rapporteur, Bernie MALONE (PES, Irl), welcomed the Commission's recommendation that a review of Malta's legislation should start as soon as possible so that negotiations can begin swiftly, at the latest by the end of the year. Progress is needed in the area of justice and home affairs but there are no major political problems and Malta has a market economy which is capable of standing up to accession. Malta has also expressed its wish to work towards the main objectives of the CFSP. Lastly, the report calls for pre-accession aid to be granted to Malta on the same basis as to the other candidates.�