The participants noted that the Stability Pact through its activities since 1999 had significantly contributed to the stabilisation of South Eastern Europe. The overall socio-economic situation as well as security in the region has improved and the Euro-Atlantic integration of South Eastern European countries is well on track. From March on, the Regional Co-operation Council will play a key role in consolidating achievements of the Stability Pact to date and in making further progress in the different areas of co-operation. It will also continue to provide a platform for supporting further Euro-Atlantic integration of South Eastern Europe.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Slovenia Dmitrij Rupel, on behalf of the European Union, praised the Stability Pact and its Special Co-ordinator for its precious contribution to stabilising the region and helping the countries prepare for EU accession.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Bulgaria Ivaylo Kalfin stated that it was an honour for his country to host the hand-over meeting between the SP and RCC. Bulgaria is currently Chairman-in-Office of the SEECP, the main framework for political consultations in the region, under the umbrella of which the RCC will function.

source:
http://www.stabilitypact.org (28.02.2008)