战略与国际研究中心-Select-Briefing-Vol-3,-No-17_2页_230kb

Select Briefing Europe East Summary

Core Content

This document provides a detailed overview of political, economic, and security developments in Central, Eastern, and Southeast European countries as of May 2006. It highlights key events and initiatives in the Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Slovakia, and the Baltic States (Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania), as well as updates on Bulgaria, Croatia, Romania, and Slovenia. The focus is on regional cooperation, EU integration, energy security, and economic progress.

Central Europe

Czech Republic

• Railway Modernization in Poland: The Czech company TCHAS will complete a EUR 50 million project to modernize the railway corridor between Siedlce and Lukow, aligning it with European standards.
• Energy Expansion: CEZ, a Czech state-owned energy company, purchased the Varna power station in Bulgaria for EUR 206 million and plans to invest EUR 100 million to increase its capacity.
• Political Engagement: Czech Prime Minister Jiri Paroubek visited Latvia to discuss bilateral relations and EU policies, including the upcoming June summit.

Hungary

• New Parliament Session: President Laszlo Solyom announced the inaugural session of the new parliament on 16 May 2006.
• Labor Market Restrictions: Hungary removed restrictions for EU countries that opened their labor markets from 1 May 2006, but maintained barriers for Austria and Germany.
• Broadband Development: Hungary aims to provide broadband internet access to all households by 2011, with a USD 960 million project funded mainly by the EU. However, 60% of those without internet access show no interest in connecting.

Baltic States

Estonia

• EU Membership Impact: A TNS Emor poll shows that 50% of Estonians do not feel their lives have changed since joining the EU. 30% believe life has improved, while 15% think it has worsened.
• Euro Adoption: 49% of Estonians oppose adopting the Euro, while 41% support it.

Latvia

• Energy Security Talks: Latvian President Vaira Vik-Freiberga met with Ukrainian President Viktor Yushchenko to discuss European energy security.
• International Events: Latvia will host the 2006 World Ice Hockey Championship and the NATO summit in November 2006, prompting increased border security measures.

Lithuania

• Regional Summit: Vilnius hosted a two-day summit of Baltic and Black Sea leaders to discuss long-term EU and NATO policies.
• U.S. Engagement: U.S. Vice-President Dick Cheney praised Lithuania's support in Iraq and Afghanistan, while criticizing Russia's actions in restricting rights and using energy as a political tool.
• EU Funding: Lithuania expects EUR 1.236 billion in EU funds in 2007, with significant structural aid expected.

Southeast Europe

Bulgaria

• Pipeline Withdrawal: Bulgaria withdrew from the Bulgarian consortium involved in the Burgas-Alexandroupolis pipeline project, which was initially agreed upon in 2005.
• Agricultural Funding: Bulgaria received EUR 75,090,000 from the SAPARD program for agriculture and rural development, with a state agency proposed to oversee the use of funds.

Croatia

• U.S. Visit: U.S. Vice-President Dick Cheney will visit Croatia from 6 May, meeting with President Stjepan Mesic and Prime Minister Ivo Sanader.

Romania

• Air-Policing Mission: Romania will take over the air-policing mission over the Baltic states in 2007, following a rotation of pilots from other NATO countries since 2004.
• EU Membership Prospects: The EU's Council presidency, held by Austria, will report on Romania's EU membership status on 16 May 2006, potentially affecting the start date of 1 January 2007.
• Economic Forecast: A report by Bank Austria Creditanstalt predicts Romania's GDP growth at 5.6% in 2006 and 5.5% in 2007, exceeding regional expectations, though inflation is expected to be higher than targeted.

Slovenia

• Tax Agreement with Germany: Slovenian Finance Minister Andrej Bajuk and his German counterpart Peer Steinbrueck signed an agreement to avoid double taxation, enhancing economic ties.
• UN Human Rights Council: Slovenian Foreign Minister Dimitrij Rupel sought support for Slovenia's membership in the UN Human Rights Council, citing its experience in human rights initiatives.

Key Themes

• EU Integration: Several countries are working towards or have achieved EU membership, with ongoing efforts to align with EU standards and policies.
• Energy Security: Concerns over energy dependency and the need for diversification are prominent, especially in relation to Russia.
• Economic Development: Projects and investments in infrastructure, broadband, and agriculture are highlighted, with EU funding playing a crucial role.
• Regional Cooperation: Events such as summits and diplomatic visits underscore the importance of collaboration between new EU members and neighboring states.

Summary

This briefing captures the political and economic dynamics of Central, Eastern, and Southeast European countries in the context of EU enlargement and regional integration. It emphasizes the challenges and opportunities in energy security, infrastructure development, and economic growth, while also highlighting the diplomatic efforts and cooperation between nations. The document serves as a comprehensive overview of the region's progress and concerns in the early stages of EU expansion.