” “"I have a background as a member of the European Parliament for 27 years. I followed every single step of the developments of this assembly and the strengthening of its powers. And I think today this institution is better known and recognisable by its citizens, who are beginning to feel represented by it". Hans-Gert Poettering, a German politician and jurist, explains to SIR "the new challenges that await the EU and Parliament. I think the legislative work and the joint decision-making power should be further extended. Secondly, I think all the EU institutions must be made more effective and therefore closer to the citizens. Thirdly, I believe the future election of the EU Parliament in 2009 must be conditional on the approval of the Constitution". In addition, "we have to bear in mind the process of integration of the two new member states, Romania and Bulgaria, which on January 1st will join the EU". And as to Turkey: "We all expect progress to be made in connection with the Ankara Protocol. If this big country wants to become a EU member in the future, it will have to take effective and significant steps towards Europe. However, I wish the negotiations" with Erdogan’s government "would not stop".” ” ” “
