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Select Briefing: Europe East – July 7, 2006 Summary

Core Content Overview

This summary provides an update on political, economic, and social developments in Central, Baltic, and Southeast European countries, with a focus on the Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Slovakia, Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, Bulgaria, Croatia, Romania, and Slovenia. The report highlights defense, economic, and diplomatic activities, as well as historical and cultural events.

Central European Update

Czech Republic

• The Czech government approved a four-year project to integrate defense companies into the international e-business platforms Epicos and Exostar, aiming to increase the visibility of Czech products on the global market.
• Deputy Defense Minister Jaroslav Kopriva announced the signing of a contract with Aero Vodochody for the delivery of four L-159 light combat planes for training purposes.
• MND Exploration and Production, owned by K&K Capital Group, plans a USD 30 million investment in oil and gas exploration in Yemen over two years, with plans to open an office and send specialists.

Hungary

• The Hungarian forint depreciated significantly against the euro (8.5%) and USD (9%), affecting those who borrowed in foreign currency.
• MOL, the national oil company, increased gas prices to over 300 forints per liter due to the currency devaluation.
• Standard & Poor’s warned of an 11% budget gap in 2007 unless Hungary improves public finances. The IMF also cautioned against overly optimistic budget projections.
• The Hungarian government announced the privatization of the cargo unit of MÁV Zrt., with proceeds intended to finance the company's debt.
• Mixed reactions were observed in Hungary to the new Slovak government, with some fearing for the rights of the Hungarian minority in Slovakia, while others expressed respect for the new administration.

Baltic States Update

Lithuania

• Parliament approved Gediminas Kirkilas as the new Prime Minister, who previously served as defense minister.
• Kirkilas has 15 days to form a new coalition government.
• Lithuania celebrated its Day of Statehood on 6 July, reenacting the coronation of Mindaugas.
• Vilnius International Airport set a monthly record with 150,000 passengers in June and is projected to reach 1.5 million annual passengers by 2006.

Latvia

• Economy Minister Kaspars Gerhards signed an agreement with Uzbekistan on economic and industrial cooperation, making Uzbekistan Latvia's 15th largest trade partner.
• Foreign Minister Artis Pabriks met with the Canadian ambassador to discuss visa issues, noting a 3% refusal rate.

Estonia

• President Arnold Ruutel met with Queen Elizabeth II to discuss joint projects, cultural ties, and her upcoming visit.
• Tallinn Mayor Juri Ratas began a ten-day visit to U.S. cities to study crisis management, crime prevention, and public-private cooperation models.

Southeast European Update

Bulgaria

• President Georgi Purvanov received support from U.S. President George W. Bush and French President Jacques Chirac for Bulgaria's EU accession, which is planned for January 2007.
• Google plans to establish a permanent office in Bulgaria, and Microsoft and Ubisoft have also announced investments in the country, signaling growing interest in Bulgaria's IT and logistics sectors.

Croatia

• The Croatian parliament passed legislation simplifying property purchase for foreigners, removing the need for foreign ministry approval.
• A declaration was adopted condemning crimes committed by the Yugoslav communist regime (1945–1990), acknowledging over 100,000 political prisoners.
• A survey by the Austrian Foreign Trade Office revealed that red tape, corruption, and legal discrepancies with EU standards are the main obstacles to investment in Croatia.

Romania

• The Supreme Council of National Defense rejected a proposal to withdraw Romanian troops from Iraq, with President Traian Basescu emphasizing the need for coalition consultations.
• Romania is negotiating the purchase of used F-16 fighters from Belgium, aiming to modernize its air force by acquiring at least 24 upgraded aircraft.

Slovenia

• President Janez Drnovsek met with Croatian President Stjepan Mesic to address the ongoing border dispute, agreeing on bilateral negotiations.
• Slovenian Foreign Minister Dimitrij Rupel and German Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier discussed preparations for the EU Presidency, with Germany taking over in 2007 and Slovenia in 2008.

Key Themes and Views

• Defense Modernization: Several countries are focusing on upgrading their military capabilities, particularly through international partnerships and acquisitions.
• Economic Challenges: Currency depreciation, budget gaps, and the need for fiscal discipline are prominent issues in Hungary and other Central European states.
• EU Accession and Integration: EU accession is a key goal for many countries, with Bulgaria and Croatia making progress, while concerns over political and economic reforms remain.
• Diplomatic Relations: Co-operation between neighboring states and with EU institutions is emphasized, especially in addressing shared challenges like border disputes and economic development.
• Historical Awareness: Croatia's parliamentary declaration on the Yugoslav communist regime reflects a growing emphasis on historical accountability and public awareness.

Conclusion

The report underscores the dynamic political and economic landscape in Eastern and Central Europe, with a focus on integration into international structures, defense modernization, and EU accession. It also highlights the importance of diplomatic engagement and the challenges of balancing national interests with regional cooperation.