Press release

AFR The President and political group chairmen of the European Parliament to visit Denmark

21.06.02

President Pat Cox and the chairmen of the seven political groups of the European Parliament will visit Denmark on 24 June 2002 as part of the preparations for the upcoming Danish EU Presidency. In the course of their visit, the chairmen will meet Prime Minister Anders Fogh Rasmussen, Minister for Foreign Affairs Per Stig Møller and Minister for European Affairs Bertel Haarder. In the evening, the Prime Minister will host a dinner for the guests at Marienborg.

The subjects to be discussed are expected to include the approaching Danish EU Presidency, including especially the enlargement of the EU and co-operation with the European Parliament.

On the occasion of the visit, the Prime Minister states:

'I look forward to this opportunity to discuss the work during the forthcoming Danish EU Presidency with President of the European Parliament, Mr Pat Cox, and the chairmen of the seven political groups of the European Parliament. This type of meeting is a novel event and has not traditionally been part of previous Presidencies, but it will offer both parties an opportunity to establish good co-operation and build up trust before the work of the Presidency starts in earnest. Denmark emphasises close ties with the Parliament to address the great challenges we shall face during the Presidency. There are many and highly significant tasks to be solved, and very little time to do so. It is, therefore, of paramount importance that our co-operation should work in the best way possible.”

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There will be a press conference with Prime Minister Anders Fogh Rasmussen and President of the European Parliament Pat Cox on Monday 24 June from 5:00 PM to 5:30 PM in Eigtved’s Pakhus, Meeting Room II.

There will also be a photo opportunity in connection with the reception of the European Parliament at 3:00 PM at Eigtved’s Pakhus and at the beginning of the meeting.

Further there will be a photo opportunity in connection with the reception of the European Parliament at 7:00 PM in connection with the dinner at Marienborg, Nybrovej 410, Lyngby.

Press cards must be clearly visible.

Further information: Jesper Fersløv Andersen, (+45) 33 92 22 35.