Vol. 562 No. 5
137 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the matters discussed and conclusions reached in his discussions with political leaders during his recent visit to Poland and Italy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6442/03]
In the context of developing shared positions with other participants at the European Convention, and as part of ongoing preparations for Ireland's EU Presidency next year, I visited Poland on 19 February 2003, followed immediately by a visit to Italy on 20 February 2003. During these visits I had a number of meetings with political leaders in both countries.
While in Warsaw I had meetings with Foreign Minister Cimoszewicz, followed by a meeting with Secretary of State Hubner, who is responsible for European integration and is also the Polish Government's representative to the European Convention. I also paid a courtesy call to the President of the Republic of Poland, Mr. A. Kwasniewski.
The principal issues discussed were: the enlargement process, including the accession referendum campaign; developments at the Convention; and Ireland's position on the free movement of labour and the "New Neighbours" initiative concerning relations between the enlarged European Union and its future neighbours in eastern Europe.
In Rome, I had a meeting with Foreign Minister Frattini and paid a courtesy call to Deputy Prime Minister Fini. The Deputy Prime Minister is also the Italian Government's representative to the European Convention. Discussions focused principally on the European Convention, including the Charter of Fundamental Rights, institutional balance and the functioning of the Presidency.
