EU Statement on the Euro - Vienna

Madam Chairperson,

I am speaking on behalf of the European Union. The Acceding Countries Cyprus, Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Slovakia and Slovenia and the Associated Countries Bulgaria, Romania and Turkey declare that they associate themselves with this statement.)

1. We carefully listened to the views expressed by a number of Delegations in connection with the introduction of Euro as a functional currency of the Agency.

2. Our request for the introduction of the Euro as a functional currency of the Agency is not a new one. The Agency's Secretariat has dealt with this matter for more than two years and has produced three reports related to this issue namely:

- GOV/INF/2002/6/17.05.2002,

- GOV/INF/2003/1/24.12.2002 and

- GOV/INF/2003/27/15.04.2003.

3. We had hoped that by now, we should be able to reach a decision. We take note however that certain countries wish to have a bit more time to study the matter even further. We are prepared to respond positively to this request and therefore suggest that they consult, with the Secretariat in the remaining time till the June Board with a view to resolving all the questions and concerns, expressed today. We do though make an appeal to avoid procrastination. We are looking forward for the final positive resolution of this issue in June.

Thank you, Madam Chairperson.

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