Albania and Associate Partners in the WEU

Delegation of Norway

Statement by
Foreign Minister Knut Vollebaek

Western European Union
Council of Ministers, Erfurt, 18 November 1997
Afternoon Session (28)

Albania - current situation and perspectives

- We are pleased to note that the situation is gradually, although too slowly, improving in Albania. Political stability is a prerequisite for reconstruction and development. Re-integration of Albania into European and international cooperation requires full commitment to principles and practices for the respect of human rights and democratic procedures.

- The re-establishment of law and order is equally vital for political and economic stability. The WEU is making a positive contribution, through the Multinational Advisory Police Element. We view MAPE as one element in a broad international effort, channeled through various organisations, in particular the OSCE. Norway has supported the MAPE all along. The success of the operation is important to Albania, but also, as we see it, for the WEU.

WEU's contribution to the integration of the Associate Partners into the European Security architecture

- Norway attaches significant importance to strengthened participation from the Associate Partners in the WEU. We view the integration of associate partners into European and Euro-Atlantic security structures as a very major task. The efforts through the WEU successfully supplements the efforts thorough NATO, the European Union and other fora.

- We strongly support the document before ministers on participation of Associate Partners in Petersberg tasks. Broad participation will provide increased backing, legitimacy and resources for future WEU-operations.

- We expect that the three prospective NATO-members Hungary, Poland and the Czech Republic in due course will apply for associate membership in the WEU. We look forward to welcoming them as Associate Members. They will further strengthen the organisation. The WEU should look at practical arrangements allowing for the prospective associate members to be gradually involved in WEU activities at 18.

Thank you, Mr Chairman