Brussels, 16/01/2004 (Agence Europe) - On 14 January, the Irish Presidency issued the following declaration on behalf of the EU:
“On the occasion of the first anniversary of the inauguration of President Gutierrez, the European Union reaffirms its support for his democratically elected Government, for the democratic institutions of Ecuador, and for the people of Ecuador who freely expressed their desire for democratic change and political reform in the elections held in November 2002. Stressing the importance of full respect for the fundamental values of democracy, freedom and justice, the European Union underlines that only the rule of law and good governance can provide a solid basis for political stability, social cohesion and economic development, which will in turn create the most advantageous conditions for further European cooperation and direct investment. The European Union encourages the continuation of the economic policies implemented by the government of Ecuador throughout these past twelve months. In this regard, the European Union attaches particular importance to the fight against poverty and corruption. In the context of its friendship and cooperation with Ecuador, the European Union underlines the importance of a comprehensive national dialogue, which would help to strengthen the democratic institutions of the State a and to establish a more effective presence of the State - and equitable delivery of public services - throughout the national territory. National dialogue would also help to achieve sound and effective reforms as well as political and economic stability, which would contribute to growing national wealth, social cohesion and improved living standards for all citizens. The European Union stands ready to continue to support the implementation of these goals, which should contribute to the strengthening of democracy in Ecuador.
The Acceding Countries Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, the Slovak Republic and Slovenia, the Candidate Countries Bulgaria, Romania and Turkey, the Countries of the Stabilisation and Association Process and potential candidates Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Serbia and Montenegro, and the EFTA countries Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway, members of the European Economic Area, align themselves with this declaration.”