Vol. 421 No. 4
269 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will make a statement regarding the recent discussions on Europe Day at the Seville Exposition where the Ministers adopted a communication outlining their strategy for co-operation and development policy up to the year 2000; and if he will outline its implications for Ireland.
The Deputy appears to be referring to a meeting of the European Commission which took place in Seville on 9 May on the occasion of Europe Day. The meeting was one of reflection on the future of the Community. Commission members also visited the EC and member states' stands at the Seville Expo.
Among the subjects discussed was the issue of the Community's co-operation with developing countries in the light of recent changes in the world. The deliberations are at a preliminary stage. A discussion document has been sent to the Council of Ministers. This is being examined in the relevant working group and I expect that Ministers will have an opportunity to exchange views on it at the next Development Council, which will be held in November.
