Europe are currently facing the enormously difficult task of organizing two major projects in parallel. Enlargement as quickly as possible. This poses difficult problems of adaptation both for the acceding states and for the EU itself. As seriously as we must tackle these questions, we must never lose sight of the historic dimension of eastern enlargement. For this is a unique opportunity to unite our continent, wracked by war for centuries, in peace, security, democracy and prosperity.
Enlargement is a supreme national interest, especially for Germany.
Enlargement will bring tremendous benefits for German companies and for employment. Germany must therefore continue its advocacy of rapid eastern enlargement. At the same time, enlargement must be effected carefully and in accordance with the Helsinki decision. Europe's capacity to act. The institutions of the EU were created for six member states.