Hungary: membership application and partnership, 1st April 1994

The European Parliament adopted the report drafted by Mr Luís QUEIRO (UEN, P) on Hungary's application for membership of the European Union. The Parliament applauds Hungary's progress towards the adoption of the acquis, and its steady economic growth. However, organised crime is highlighted as being probably the most worrying internal problem. The Parliament stresses the need for firm, foreseeable dates for the conclusion of the negotiations and for accession to be established as soon as possible in order to help prevent disappointment or even discontent within certain sectors of Hungarian society. Furthermore, the Parliament hopes that the medium-term measures intended to prevent discrimination against the Roma community and welcomes steps taken to improve their situation. As regards agriculture, the European Parliament emphasises the need for the modernisation of Hungarian agriculture. Moreover, the restructuring of the health sector must be speeded up. With regard to the environment, the Parliament welcomes the "Joint Declaration" on environmental protection concluded between Hungary and its neighbours to prevent cross-border environmental pollution, although cross-border pollution remains a problem, notably in the Danube and Tiszla rivers. �