Brussels, 14/01/2003 (Agence Europe) - The Greek Prime Minister and current President of the European Council, Costas Simitis, sent a message "to the citizens of the enlarged European Union", stressing that the Greek Presidency was going to do all it can to contribute to "an enlarged, better and stronger Europe". We want a better Europe for all its citizens, a true citizens' Europe, a Europe of cohesion and solidarity, one that will stoop over the daily problems of its citizens and will try to find answers and solutions to those problems … We also want a strong Europe, active in the regional and the international system, a Europe as a factor for peace, stability and sustainable growth for all, a Europe able to prevent and manage crises" said Simitis. Speaking more specifically to the citizens of Bulgaria and Romania, as well as those of other countries that aspire to become members of the EU one day, Mr. Simitis stressed that the enlargement of 1 May 2004 "will not be the last". The Prime Minister also placed emphasis on the role of citizens in the Union's future.
"At the presidency, Greece wants to hear the voice of all European citizens. Those who agree and those who disagree with the choices, the targets, or the policies of the European Union. The voice of each citizen, each group of citizens expressed in a democratic manner is of special significance. We are going to hear that voice and take it under serious consideration", Mr. Simitis' message concludes.