Fouere Expects Slovenia to Face Serious Challenges as EU Member
Erwan Fouere, the head of the European Commission Representation to Slovenia whose term in office ended on Monday after more than three years of service, believes that Slovenia will face tough challenges as an EU member in the future. Fouere, who officially assumed office in Slovenia in March 2002, had made it one of his priorities to inform the public about the EU. More than three years later the official says that a person can never do enough to keep the public informed.
Mr Fouere, what are you referring to?
To Slovenia's stint at the helm of the EU in 2008. Despite the magnitude of the challenge, I am confident the the country will demonstrate its skill in holding the presidency.
How has Slovenia changed during your stint here?
The biggest change was definitely the fact that it had joined the EU, something that opened up new opportunities. Changes that are not always visible to the unaided eye have occurred in many different areas. EU entry boosted Slovenia's exports and contributed to lower inflation. Moreover, another positive effect of the accession is an increase in visitor numbers, something that will strengthen Slovenia's image abroad. An important change is the increasing confidence with which Slovenia is affirming itself on the international scene, such as the country's current chairmanship of the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) and preparations for Slovenia's presidency of the EU in 2008.
How can Slovenia contribute to the debate on EU enlargement?
It can function as a bridge between South-Eastern Europe and the EU and try to ensure the EU keeps its door open to the countries in the region.
It is clear that only the prospect of joining the EU can ensure that reforms will continue in the Balkans and that the security and economic stability of the region will consolidate.
It is not the size, but the quality of the country's contribution that matteres in the EU.
Small countries had often strongly affected the fate of the EU in the past. The good example are Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg, all of which are small countries. Slovenia has an opportunity to use its potential, as well as a chance to bring the EU closer to citizens. If it succeeds, it can make a good example to other EU members.
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