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PM Gonzi focused on rising food and oil prices
By Glen Calleja in Brussels
Jun 19, 2008 - 9:17:50 PM
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The impact of the rise in food and oil prices is the most important issue being discussed at the June Council of the European Union in Brussels according to Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi. He said this during a brief comment to the press in between discussions with other European Leaders.
PM Gonzi’s comment contrasts with the topic which most of his fellow leaders seem keen to discuss above anything else, that is, the issue of the implications of the rejection of the Lisbon treaty by the Irish people last week.
The Prime Minister’s comments are however much in line with the feelings of sceptics and critics who continue to ask whether it makes sense to dedicate so much energy and time to institutional issues such as the ratification procedure of the Lisbon treaty rather than more pressing problems like the impact of food and oil prices.
Last week, 53.4% of the Irish electorate voted ‘No’ to the ratification of the Lisbon reform treaty sparking a series of statements by European Heads of State. The most pessimistic of these have been quick to comment that this signals the end of Lisbon treaty or the impossibility of it coming into force in January 2009 as had been originally planned.
On the occasion of this council meeting however, the tone of most EU leaders, including that of Maltese Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi, has turned mostly optimistic burying all signs of disappointment and crisis under statements of likely solutions for the way forward which nevertheless respect the Irish people’s choice.
The statements, though optimistic, are typically elusive and uncommitted with none of the leaders present indicating clear solutions to the crisis. This sustained elusiveness has created further doubts as to whether real solutions will be outlined in the summit’s conclusions instead of mere statements of friendship and respect towards the Irish.
The summit continues on Friday 20th June.
© Copyright 2008 by MaltaMedia.com
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Jun 20, 2008 - 2:23:19 PM CET
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