MESSAGE OF THE PRESIDENT OF THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION
to the Heads of States and Governments of the Participating States of the Black Sea
Economic Cooperation
My heartfelt greetings to all of you, distinguished Heads of States and Governments of the
Black Sea Economic Cooperation (BSEC) Participating States.
I consider this meeting in Moscow as a manifestation of the aspiration of our States and
peoples for consolidating mutual respect, confidence and cooperation for the benefit of
stability, peace and prosperity in this important region of our planet.
Four years have passed since the first BSEC Summit. And now we have every ground to say
that our organization has gained dynamism and became a tangible factor of regional
cooperation. The BSEC contributes to the formation of a new type of relations in the
European continent.
Russia highly appreciates the role of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation. We are prepared
to further develop various interaction among the countries of the Black Sea region on the
principles of an open and genuinely equal partnership. Russia intends to actively participate
in large-scale economic projects, to strengthen mutual cooperation, particularly in such areas
as investments, energy, transport, telecommunications, ecology and tourism. I am confident
that by joint efforts and with due account of mutual interests our countries will succeed in
bringing the relations of cooperation to a level that corresponds to their potential and the
needs of development and to aspirations of our peoples.
It was with keen interest that I have been expecting this forum of the Black Sea Economic
Cooperation. Most regrettably, circumstances beyond my control prevent me from
participating in it personally. I hope that the Moscow meeting will establish clear-cut
guidelines for the development of the Black Sea region for a few years to come and in the
beginning of the XXIst century, and will give an energetic impetus to further development of
the Black Sea Economic Cooperation in all directions and will expedite implementation of
the most important joint projects.
I wish you all, distinguished Heads of States and Governments, a fruitful meeting in the
capital of Russia and new successes in joint efforts for the sake of good-neighbourly
relations, peace and prosperity of our peoples.
Boris Yeltsin
STATEMENT
BY
H.E. ALEKSANDER MEKSI,
PRIME MINISTER OF THE REPUBLIC OF ALBANIA
Mr. Chairman,
Distinguished Heads of Delegations,
Eminent Ministers and Representatives,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
I wish to express my deep appreciation for the excellent arrangements made for this
High Level Meeting of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation and thank the Russian
Government and the Chairman for the hospitality extended to us since our arrival in
Moscow.
There are more than four years passed now since we signed the Summit Declaration
in Istanbul and today we are pleased to confirm that by our joined efforts, the Black
Sea Economic Cooperation can be considered as a very successful model of the
regional cooperation.
The Black Sea Economic Cooperation is playing its role today within the framework
of a progressively enlarged globalizing world economy.
Henceforth, BSEC has to seek more effectively in seizing the open up new
opportunities for development. These opportunities, regarding trading, international
capital flows, international production, to mention just a few, if grasped adroitly, can
add new momentum to the development process.
As we all are here today to reiterate once more our common view for the perspective
of the region as one of lasting peace, stability and prosperity, it is our task to spare no
efforts and give a further impetus towards such a prominent objective through
strengthening our cooperation and partnership. Obviously, this Initiative has to
consolidate its achievements, in order to be apt to a new and higher level of
performance.
However, we are conscious of the problems going on in our region. Therefore, our
cooperation has to be fully in compliance with recent Security Council Resolutions as
well as other relevant UN documents.
As all our countries are UN members they are entitled to act in accordance with the
above said documents. The BSEC as a part of the international community in all its
activities has to abide the UN Charter, as mentioned at the Bosphorus Statement.
Working together, our countries have been able to identify a considerable number of
areas that are of great interest, where transportation, telecommunication, energy and
environment are without any doubt the main pillars of cooperation.
A very important domain where the BSEC has to make its contribution is the domain
of the regional infrastructure, so to say, transportation and telecommunication, sectors
that need our fully commitment now and in the future. The cooperation and support
offered by the European Union and other international financial institutions for these
projects, that are also of common importance and aim the same goals. It is an
encouraging and promising constituent that is likely to give a new and broader
dimension to our future cooperation.
Actually, Albania is engaged alongside with other countries of the region, namely
Italy, FYROM, Bulgaria and Turkey in the East-West transport corridor, which
represents a short cut between the Adriatic, the Black Sea and the southern part of the
continent.
Meanwhile, we also are cooperating in telecommunication projects, as those of Trans
Balkan Link together with Italy, FYROM, Bulgaria and Turkey; ADRIA-1 together
with Greece and Croatia.
We have to be very sensitive to the respective business communities, considering
them as the pivotal part of our cooperation. In this framework, the customs and border
crossing procedures should be simplified and harmonized. On the other hand, the
Business Council, the different centers of the BSEC and the chambers of commerce
and industry of our countries must have a continuous mutual inflow of information.
We consider the establishment of the International Center for Black Sea Studies in
Athens as an important event which is expected to give its help in the BSEC endeavor
towards its goals.
An element of paramount importance in the BSEC framework is the activity of the
Parliamentary Assembly of the BSEC, which acting more effectively will give a
considerable contribution in exploring and facilitating all the BSEC process
dimensions.
Finally, I would like to congratulate the Russian Federation for convening of this
important Meeting for the Black Sea Economic Cooperation in the future to achieve
our common goal, peace, stability and progress.
Thank you.
STATEMENT
BY
H.E. LEVON TER-PETROSYAN,
PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF ARMENIA
Distinguished Mr. Chairman,
Distinguished Colleagues,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
It is great pleasure for me to be participating at the Meeting of the Heads of State or
Government of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation, that have gathered here to
discuss the results of the four years that have passed and goals that the organization is
facing.
If one takes a detached view, it might seem that the activity of the Black Sea
Economic Cooperation was somewhat lacking in dynamics, nevertheless, I think it is
natural, for formation of any international or regional organization is connected with
great long-term organizational and other efforts and needs time.
The process of forming the structures similar to the BSEC implies greater difficulties,
as the members of the organization are at different positions at the start, their
economic methods and degree of the development of the economy also differ.
But the aims of the organization are clearly defined, and I am sure that the Black Sea
Economic Cooperation will soon overcome the stage of forming and will address
solving issues. Commissions have already been set up, high level meetings in various
fields of the activities of the organization have been conducted.
At the first Summit, I already stated that the BSEC is the second regional organization
after CIS that Armenia has joined. Membership of Armenia in the BSEC fully
corresponds to two main principles of her foreign policy:
1. Normal relations with all neighbors
2. Integrating into regional and international structures
The BSEC was created at a time when the international situation was changing
radically, thus placing countries that for a long time had no relations between each
other in a new situation, when political stability and development of democracy was
naturally linked with economic development and economic integration.
At this time Armenia took resolute steps in the direction of radical reform. At present
the process of privatization is continuing intensively. In spite of the difficulties of the
transition period we are determined to continue implementing the economic reforms,
and as these work proceeds, we will have the possibility to concentrate on social
issues.
In the sphere of the development of democracy, starting from 1991 Armenia
conducted two parliamentary and presidential elections, next month we are
conducting elections into local self-governing authorities. Last year Armenia adopted
the Constitution which provides for democracy, superiority of the law and free
economic development.
During the last few years Armenia spared no effort to participate in settling the
conflict in Nagorny-Karabakh. And if there are still delays in the progress of
negotiations, the reason, to my mind, can be explained by the fact that the
negotiations have already reached a stage when most complicated and difficult-tosolve problems of the conflict are discussed.
The armistice must be consolidated, negotiations must continue and the peace must be
reached. All the countries that are interested in establishing stability and developing
the region, do everything in their power to create the most favorable atmosphere for
the negotiations. If we recognize, that some difficulties in settling the conflict arise
out of mutual mistrust, steps in this direction are necessary.
In conclusion, I would like to voice my hope that the BSEC will increase and develop
its activities, and, being an organization for economic cooperation will also promote
solving political problems between and among the member states.
Thank you for your attention.
STATEMENT
BY
H.E. HEYDAR ALIYEV,
PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF AZERBAIJAN
Dear Mr. Chairman,
Distinguished Heads of State or Government,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
It is a pleasure to greet the distinguished Heads of States and Governments, members of
delegations of the member states, representatives of international organisations, who take part
in our traditional meeting in the framework of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation.
I sincerely congratulate the Prime Minister of the Russian Federation, the highly
distinguished Mr. Viktor Stepanovich Chernomyrdin with the election to the Chair of our
Summit, I express my deep gratitude to the government of Russia and all Russians for
attention, friendship and hospitality, for creation of the perfect conditions for our work in the
beautiful city of Moscow.
I convey my respect, consideration and soon recovery wishes to the President of Russia,
Boris Nikolayevich Yeltsin to the name of fruitful work on the way of democracy and
progress in Russia.
We attach a great importance to the participation in the work of the organisation of the Black
Sea Economic Cooperation, which demonstrates its vitality, necessity and perspective more
and more.
It is with immense pleasure I would like to note that, for the period passed after the Summit
of the BSEC in 1992 the significant work has been done, our cooperation has been widened
and deepened, especially in the sphere of energy, transport, communication, trade.
Black Sea region possesses very important system of the transport links and successful
implementation of any joint project will depend mainly on the cooperation in the field of
communication. In this regard one of the most promising projects of our activity is the
formation of the modern transit Euro-Asian transport net via creation of the corridors "EastWest" and "North-South". In its final stage they should provide the connection of the
transport infrastructure of all the countries of the Black Sea region with the later integration
of national infrastructures to the corresponding units of the Trans-European transport system.
Black Sea basin has a lot of communications with the Caucasus, Caspian basin. That is why
the attraction of the other countries to the work process of the BSEC, to my mind, will
significantly increase the capacities and possibilities of our organisation.
The Republic of Azerbaijan, thanks to its geographical position situation, has vast
opportunities for the organisation of the transport and communication ties between Europe
and Asia, and we are going to cooperate closely in this direction with all the interested
parties.
We attach a great importance to the project of unification of the electricity-energy systems of
the Black Sea Economic Cooperation countries. It should be noted with pleasure that Black
Sea Energy Center in Sofia, European Union, international banks and financial organizations
have already started to work out this project.
I asses positively the ratification of the Agreement on the creation of the Black Sea Trade and
Development Bank and I hope that at the beginning of the next year it will start to function
and provide investments of the large regional projects.
Having gave to our activity for recent years I want to stress that Black Sea Economic
Cooperation, to my mind, is not dynamic organisation yet. To implement successfully joint
projects it is necessary to define more clear legal base for cooperation, to create the effective
organisational mechanism, which could co-ordinate the job of all structures of the Black Sea
Economic Cooperation.
By our joint efforts we should create the favourable climate for the private entrepreneurship
in the BSEC region and with this purpose it is necessary to activate the work of the Business
Council.
The important task and the main condition of the success is the openness of the Black Sea
Economic Cooperation, effective cooperation with regional organisations such as European
Union, CIS, ECO and some others. It would not only contribute to the successful
implementation of the joint projects in the economic sphere but also to the growing of
international prestige of our organization.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
The beginning of the XXI century, the new Centennial is being waited by the mankind with
the hope to the peace, stability and welfare. Our task is to make our contribution for this
historical aim. It obliges us to resist firmly to any action aimed against the peace, unleashing
of wars, military conflicts.
Black Sea basin which suffered the hard consequences of many wars is especially in need of
it. We have to rebuff firmly and decisively all kind of separatism, aggressive nationalism,
international terrorism which have been expanded widely during recent times. We have to
support international principles of the territorial integrity, sovereignty of each country.
It is known, how significant is the role of the Caucasus for the implementation of the
programs of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation. All the nations are suffering, all the
countries of the Caucasus are suffering. That is why the liquidation of the military conflicts in
the Caucasus is the high importance condition for the successful economic cooperation in the
Black Sea basin.
The huge damage has been made to our country by the aggression from the Republic of
Armenia with the purpose to separate Nagorno-Karabakh region of the Azerbaijan Republic.
Twenty percent of our territories are under occupation, more than one million of our citizens
have been ousted from their dwelling places, they became refugees and live in hard
conditions in the tent camps.
In May of 1994, we achieved the Agreement to seize the fire, which is being preserved up to
now. But no permanent peace has been achieved yet. We are consistently obtaining the
peaceful regulation of the Armenian-Azerbaijani conflict through the rehabilitation of the
territorial integrity of Azerbaijan, settlement of the refugees back in their homes, grant of the
high autonomy status to Nagorny Karabakh within the Azerbaijani state. I guess that such a
universal principle can be the basement for all the conflicts in the Caucasus.
Your Excellencies,
I don’t have any doubts that our joint work in the organization of the Black Sea Economic
Cooperation will contribute to the strengthening of the peace and stability in our region, to
the growth of the welfare and flourishing of our people.
That is why, I stress again the readiness of the Republic of Azerbaijan to the most close
cooperation within the framework of our organization in the name to achieve these noble
goals.
Thank you for attention.
STATEMENT
BY
H.E. DR. ZHELYU ZHELEV,
PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF BULGARIA
Esteemed Mr. Prime Minister,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
It is four years now since 1992 when Summit Declaration on Black Sea Economic
Cooperation was signed in Istanbul, and I think that we could congratulate ourselves on a
relative conclusion of the stage of building-up the structural and procedure framework of
cooperation among our countries. The Eighth Meeting of Ministers of Foreign Affairs is
being held today, this is the third round of our deliberations, senior officials meet regularly,
the Black Sea Trade and Development Bank has been established, working groups discuss
the concrete mechanisms of economic cooperation, specific relations are being established
with other international organizations. It seems to me that I would express a common view
by saying that it is necessary to proceed to elaboration and practical implementation of
specific projects of mutual interest in various fields.
There is no doubt whatsoever for the participants in the Moscow Summit today that the key
to success of present integration processes is regional cooperation effective enough to
exploit fully the wealth of good-neighbourly relations and shared interests as well as the
economic and human potential of the states in a certain region. This comes first.
Second, it would be essential for the effectivity of such regional cooperation to adopt a
concrete pragmatic approach allowing identification of common objectives and selection of
instruments for their achievement. I believe that we have already accomplished that: we
should coordinate our efforts and synchronize our interests, first and foremost, with
regard to building-up the infrastructure of the region - transport, energy,
telecommunications. A number of specific projects are under elaboration now - their
materialization would help us to overcome isolation from Europe and the Middle East; they
would also be of interest to other international partners outside the region. It is only then that
we could visualize a more definite institutionalization of the various forms of our
cooperation. In the meantime, a special committee of senior officials and legal experts could
work out and submit to us a report on the parameters and terms of a future international
institution, where membership of any of our states would not be in conflict with international
commitments undertaken already, to the World Trade Organization, for instance and, first of
all, to the European Union and the adopted common strategy of accession of associated
states. What is boils down to, actually, is a more modest but very concrete and pragmatic
philosophy of regional cooperation which has already proved its effectivity in the framework
of expanding united Europe.
It is necessary for the future processes of institutionalization to keep their open and flexible
character, their step-by-step evolution in order to avoid all possible traps of premature
bureaucratization of this new type of cooperation and to spare superfluous costs to our
taxpayers.
There is no doubt that our region needs sizeable foreign investments to guarantee
implementation of our projects, the infrastructural ones in the first place. It is also obvious
that only a transparent system of regional cooperation, based on clear and shared rules, would
effectively attract the interest of big world investors. I am confident that, gradually, by joint
efforts, we will achieve that.
STATEMENT
BY
H.E. EDUARD SHEVARDNADZE,
PRESIDENT OF GEORGIA
Distinguished Mr. Chairman,
Distinguished Heads of the Delegations,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Permit me to express my heartfelt gratitude to the government of the Russian
Federation, to you, dear Victor Stepanovich, for your hospitality and for an excellent
organization of our meeting.
We would like to extend from here our greetings and best regards to the President of
Russia, Mr. Boris Nikolayevich Yeltsin who stood here with us at the inception of our
organization. I am convinced that in the nearest future he will resume his vigorous
participation in our work. Given quite a number of circumstances, this is not a mere
civility or a protocol statement of our aspirations.
In my address I would like to share with you a few considerations concerning the
present-day situation in the Black Sea Economic Cooperation as it is seen from my
country. Since our last meeting in Bucharest, the States of the Black Sea region have
undergone a lot of changes. The implementation of the global project of the Eurasian
transport-communications corridor has got off the ground and this corridor that will
be able to handle huge amounts of goods and raw materials shipped from East to West
and from North to South; we are witnesses that more and more countries join the
quartipartite agreement signed at Sarakhs that provides for maximum promotion of
transit; the issue of the development and transportation of energy sources from the
Caspian countries has been determined; the relations of many BSEC Participating
States with the European Union have acquired a new qualitative dimension. The legal
basis of integration within the framework of the CIS is now being expeditiously
created. A lot of other things could also be mentioned. Our region is the scene of
dynamic and vigorous processes of coincidence or rapprochement of long-term
political and economic interests, the initiation and implementation of which was a
determining factor underlying the creation of our alliance. Moreover, owing to their
no–longer-regional but sometimes even global significance, many projects have gone
beyond the boundaries of the Black Sea area. Unfortunately one cannot perceive the
presence of the BSEC in these substantial changes. We have to admit that the Black
Sea Economic Cooperation lags behind the rate of the development of this region. If it
is so and if the BSEC, for various reasons, really finds it difficult to act as an initiator
and propounder of new endeavours, let us at least contribute to the Organization
becoming part of those processes that have originated and have been developing
outside the BSEC. It will be beneficial for the Organization and will contribute to
enlarging the scope of its activities and responsibilities.
Mutually beneficial bilateral and multilateral relations have long since gone beyond
the boundaries of our region. For instance, such global projects as the TRASECA and
the transportation of the Caspian oil involve States that are members of four
international organizations simultaneously: the BSEC, the CIS, the ECO and the
European Union. Time has come to harmonize and coordinate our activities. We
propose that a consultative group for coordination of the implementation of largescale projects involving Participating States of the BSEC, the CIS, the ECO and the
European Union be set up as a permanent body acting within the framework of
working bodies of the BSEC. This group that should incorporate representatives of all
the interested countries, and the above international organizations could, with
transparency, address, coordinate and settle all the differences that may crop up
between and among the countries involved, which differences, if unsettled in the
course of frank discussions, may remain as underwater currents that are not always
visible from the outside and, having lost their economic essence, may acquire a
political dimension and thus give rise to mutual mistrust and encourage the spirit of
unhealthy competition.
Our vigorously developing region will continue on its course, because European
processes that started after the end of the “cold war” cannot be stopped, whereas the
Organization faces the risk of being pushed aside. Georgia believes that it has become
necessary to make a political decision at the top level concerning a stage-wise
transformation of the BSEC into a recognized international economic regional
organization. Rendering this organization an international legal entity will allow
general coordination of its performance in all dimensions – inter-governmental,
parliamentary, business, etc. and will provide advantages regarding attraction of
investments here from outside, which will raise international authority of the Black
Sea cooperation to a new level. With this in view, it is to be thought that more
attention should be given to the relations with European structures.
Against the backdrop of a global vision of the place and role of the Black Sea area and this role is already conspicuous, conflicts in our countries appear as a monstrous
anachronism. One is under the impression that these conflicts that present a
formidable threat for the whole region and for the Organization in particular, take
place not in our region but elsewhere on the opposite side of the globe. If we intend to
deepen economic cooperation - and the BSEC has been created precisely for this
purpose - we should bear in mind that conflicts whose number and acuity would not
dwindle, are able to blow up the cooperation and integration that have already started.
We are far from freezing or inhibiting the processes of integration until they can be
settled. We only urge that they should be regarded seriously, as a factor that impedes
implementation of the ideas that formed the basis of our alliance. We believe that the
support of the Kislovodsk Statement which was initiated by the Russian Federation
and the “Peaceful Caucasus” initiative could become the first step for the BSEC
States to demonstrate their responsibility. Reverting to the discussion and
implementation of the idea of the East-West Eurasian transport-communications
corridor, don’t we unwarrantedly forget about the North-to-South line whose
operation is impeded by conflicts in one of the Black Sea regions, namely in the
Caucasus, particularly in Georgia, to be precise? Had it not been for the conflict in
Abkhazia, direct and shortest itineraries could operate from the North towards
Armenia, Azerbaijan, Turkey, Greece, Iran and the Near East.
Now that we have touched upon the globalization of positive processes, I would
permit myself to remind you about those negative aspects which the Georgian
delegation already cautioned you about at our previous meeting: development of
communications that contributes to a large-scale shift of people and goods, will give
rise to problems connected with organized crime, that pose a serious threat to stability
in the region. We propose that concrete measures should be taken today itself, to wit:
a BSEC regional center should be set up to combat organized crime, drugs trafficking,
illegal arms trade, smuggling of finished products and raw materials, which center, in
close cooperation with the Interpol and analogous structures in the CIS, could assume
the role of a coordinator. We also believe that along with other objectives the main
challenge of this center should be merciless struggle against terrorism – this evil of
our time. Harbouring dangerous terrorists and criminals on the territory of other states
should be regarded as absolutely impermissible.
And, finally, I cannot finish my statement without saying in just a few words about
the changes that have taken place in my country over the past year. If we proceed
from the premise that the more democratic, stable and predictable member states are
going to be, the stronger will be our region and our regional organization, then the
contribution Georgia has made to our common cause over the past year is not so
small. We have adopted a new Constitution that corresponds to the top level
international standards. We have had free and fair parliamentary and presidential
elections. Radical economic reforms are proceeding at full speed assisted and
participated in by international and European financial institutions, as a result of
which the rate of exchange of our national currency has remained practically
unchanged for over a whole year. Georgia has excellent relations with all the
countries represented here in this hall. With your help, distinguished heads of the
delegations, we have succeeded to do away with the political chaos, economic decline
and, having emerged from a profound economic crisis, we have now embarked upon
the way of a genuinely democratic development. And my most sincere gratitude goes
to all of you.
In conclusion, distinguished colleagues, I would like to mention that despite all
difficulties, economic cooperation, cooperation in tourism are gaining momentum.
Gradually, our scientists establish contacts with one another; we have started joint
research into ecology and, generally speaking, people become closer to each other.
The critical observations that I have addressed to the Organization have been
prompted solely by our greatest desire to see it follow our region and gain appropriate
weight in the world. Today we have every condition to favour this, which is
corroborated by the fact that more and more countries wish to join us. And we
welcome their intention. Let us run ahead of the processes instead of merely reacting
to them. I am confident that by joining our efforts we shall succeed in achieving this.
Thank you.
STATEMENT
BY
H.E. CONSTANTINE SIMITIS,
PRIME MINISTER OF THE HELLENIC REPUBLIC
Mr. President,
Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
It is with great pleasure that I participate for the first time in such an important Meeting of the
Black Sea Economic Cooperation and I take this opportunity to express my appreciation and
thanks to the President of the Russian Federation and to you personally Mr. President for the
initiative to convene this Conference. I would also like to express my thanks for the warm
hospitality, that I and the members of the Greek Delegation have enjoyed during our short
stay in the beautiful and historic city of Moscow.
Since ancient times the Black Sea region has been a cradle of different civilizations and a
crossroad between Europe and Asia, where populations of different ethnic and religious
origin have been living together. Periods of peace and stability were succeeded by long
periods of conflicts and war. Despite this, the Black Sea area has always been famous for the
commercial transactions and economic ties forged among the peoples of the region. Greeks
have always been present in this area and have contributed to the establishment of multifaced
ties with the nations of the Black Sea. Today in building a new world, the economic
interdependence of our countries is a fact that needs solidarity, confidence and peace, so that
our cooperation may blossom.
The countries that are represented here today, I am sure can meet the challenges of the
present and at the eve of a new millenium I believe that, all of us, we can intensify our efforts
in creating a new era of freedom, stability and good neighbourly relations, which will be
beneficial to the prosperity and the well being of our peoples.
Greece attaches great importance in the development of our economic cooperation and the
activity of more than 2.000 Greek companies and enterprises operating in various countries
of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation constitutes the best proof of the eagerness of the
Greek entrepreneurs in establishing new bridges of cooperation with the business
communities of the BSEC Participating States. For us this geographic region is a vital one
for seeking opportunities of cooperation and we believe that there is a lot of space for the
businessmen to join hands and promote mutual cooperation, to the benefit of all the states of
the area. We have to create the conditions for this cooperation and more is to be done.
My country - as a founding member of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation - considers it of
a great geopolitical and geoeconomic importance, Since 1992 and more particularly during
the Hellenic Presidency of the BSEC which ended in May 1995, we have spared no effort to
promote the goals and targets of this initiative and we have actively participated in all the
Ministerial Meetings, the High Level Meeting of Bucharest and the Meetings of the
subsidiary organs, where important decisions have been taken, affecting the future of this
cooperation. However, many issues and problems still remain to be solved in the years to
come by common and concerted action.
Greece, according to the relevant BSEC Ministerial decisions, is the host country of two
significant bodies of the BSEC, namely the Black Sea Trade and Development Bank in
Thessaloniki and the International Center for Black Sea Studies. Moreover, at the end of this
year, we are also going to host in Athens the Conference of the Representatives of the
Academic Communities of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation. It is expected that through
this Conference, in which distinguished scientists and scholars from all the countries of the
region will participate, the BSEC process will acquire a new dimension.
Concluding, I would like to stress that the Hellenic Republic, as a member of the European
Union and a founding member of the BSEC, will make full use of its traditional experience in
democratic institutions and with the support of the European Union will continue to play its
positive role in further promoting the cooperation with all the Participating States of the
BSEC. We agree with the Moscow Declaration and stress the need of strengthening the
institutional and legal framework. I want also to stress the developing of programs promoting
regional cooperation. However, allow me at this point to remind that the region is faced with
serious conflicts and that there are signs of new tensions to arise. My government, guided by
the values of democracy, the rule of law, the international treaties and the respect of human
rights, principles which are also included in the founding documents of the Black Sea
Economic Cooperation, will continue working for the establishment of peaceful coexistence
of all peoples of the region. I hope that in a climate of friendship, mutual understanding and
with good faith, we shall be able to achieve the goals and targets of the BSEC initiative and
we will succeed to create a new era of prosperity and well being for all our peoples and
particularly for the generations to come.
Thank you.
STATEMENT
BY
H.E. MIRCEA SNEGUR,
PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF MOLDOVA
Mr. Chairman,
Distinguished Heads of Delegations,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
First of all, on behalf of Moldovan Delegation, I would like to express our deep gratitude to
the leadership of the Russian Federation for cordiality and hospitality, for constructive
circumstances which reign over the meeting.
It is worth mentioning that the Declaration on the Black Sea Economic Cooperation signed in
1992 has become one of the major regional initiatives. We consider the correctness of the
approach for creating good-neighbour partnership and mutually advantageous cooperation
determined by the Declaration as a necessary component for the formation of regional
European structures which, in our opinion, will determine the whole political and economic
system in the near future.
The founders of the BSEC may recall that all of us considered it necessary to unite our efforts
for the sake of stability in the region, the steady economic development and the increase in
well-being of the peoples of our countries.
It goes without saying that the previous High Level Meeting in Bucharest was important from
all points of view and contributed to the process of institutionalisation of the BSEC.
Dear colleagues,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
The steady development of our cooperation is impossible without the proper legal basis of the
BSEC and the transformation of the latter into a regional organization possessing the
necessary institutional structure and international legal status. This will make it possible to
improve the relations between BSEC and other international organizations and financial
institutions, will increase the efficiency of the process of economic cooperation itself and will
ensure the better interaction of all its components: intergovernmental, interparliamentary,
interbusiness, financial, academic and others.
In perspective, we consider the BSEC as a dynamic economic organization, which would be
an integral part of the European structure.
A new stage of the BSEC development will obviously require qualitative changes in its
institutional structure and mechanisms. It seems to us that the meeting of the Troika, the
Senior Officials committee, the meetings of the ministers of relevant ministries and
departments will make the BSEC activities more target-oriented, effective and will strengthen
the collective basis for interaction.
Talking about the prospects of the BSEC development, its confirmation in the modern system
of international relations and its active involvement into the processes of integration, we
should not forget the experience of the similar regional organizations.
Taking this into account, we think that the flexibility of institutions within the BSEC as well
as the openness towards the European organizations and other countries gives the BSEC, in
our opinion, a special status and increases its efficiency.
In this respect, we welcome the readiness of some countries to join the BSEC as observers.
This would underline not only the openness of our organization, but also the increase of its
international authority.
Mr. Chairman,
I would like to touch upon another problem that needs an adequate and constructive solution
- the problem of politicisation of the BSEC. In this regard it is to recall that the eleven Heads
of State having signed the historical Istanbul Declaration clearly defined aims and tasks of
the BSEC - the economic cooperation of the states-founders.
However, the question of using our organization for seeking solutions on disentanglements of
regional problems and security building measures in the Black Sea region is stated.
The approach to the solution of this problem should be, in our opinion, implemented
gradually, as the BSEC develops further and other real prerequisites emerge.
However, at the present stage it is necessary that the Participating States should direct their
efforts to the expansion and intensification of the economic cooperation in the region
according to the goals of the BSEC.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
As it is stipulated in the BSEC Declaration, our model of the economic cooperation is aimed ,
first of all, at the elaboration and realization of the common projects.
The implementation of major joint projects - interconnection of electric power systems of the
BSEC participating countries, development of the interregional transport corridors strengthens the BSEC and enhances its regional and international prestige.
However later on the most important and probably the most difficult task crops up: how to
convert the agreed upon principles and idea of common projects to the language of practical
business. According to this we think that the decision control mechanism should be worked
out properly.
In this respect, the Parliamentary Assembly of the BSEC must play an important role. It
seems to us that the potential of the legislative bodies of our countries to establish the treaty legal basis of cooperation are not being used completely. It is necessary to use in full the
possibilities of the Parliamentary Assembly avoiding at the same time any kind of piling up
the coordinating structures, strictly following the Declaration principles of economic
development among the Black Sea region countries.
Our common task, which is very important, is to steer up the business sector and to involve
the representatives of the business world into the process of elaboration and realisation of
common projects. In this regard we would like to highlight the BSEC Business Council
activity. However, the proposed measures may become efficient only if our governments
support them. It is necessary to enlist the businessmen from the third countries in the
economic projects within the Black Sea cooperation. In this regard we would like to
highlight the success of the Business Forum held in Bucharest and the idea of holding such
forums at a regular basis.
The Black Sea Trade and Development Bank which is to become the main mechanism in
financing and implementing the joint projects must play a special role in the process of the
economic cooperation. It is also important to work out the program of investment activity of
the Bank taking into consideration the major investment projects in the BSEC Participating
States.
Dear Heads of Delegations,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
The Black Sea region is the intersection of the most important transport arteries. The success
in solving the problems of transportation in the region would have a considerable effect on
the expanding of cooperation in other areas of economics. In this respect, the BSEC
Participating States, in our opinion, could and should achieve some real results in the very
near future. In the sphere of transport this is, first of all, related to the ensuring of optimal
flow of traffic from the BSEC countries to other regions.
Moldova is facing the problem of the absence of a direct access to the sea. That is why the
issue of ensuring such an access, also via the transportation systems of the BSEC
Participating States, has a vital importance for us. The interested position towards the
solution of this problem from the side of the Participating States will serve to stress the
viability of our cooperation.
Mr. Chairman,
The delegation of Moldova would like to join up with the evaluations made in the statements
of some heads of delegations concerning the final document of our meeting. We would like
to support the draft declaration as a balanced, target-oriented document. We are convinced
that the principles of the final document will ensure the institutionalisation of BSEC as an
organization which will be able to set up a constructive and mutually useful cooperation of
our countries.
We would like to emphasise particularly the desire of our countries for the insurance of
stability in the region by establishing urgent measures for the prevention of organized crime,
violence, terrorism, illegal traffic of drugs and weapons.
In conclusion I would like to express our confidence that our joint efforts aimed at
strengthening of the practical interaction of the Black Sea countries in different branches of
economy will considerably contribute to the building of a new integrated Europe.
Thank you very much.
STATEMENT
BY
H.E. NICOLAE VACAROIU,
PRIME MINISTER OF ROMANIA
Mr. President,
Honourable Heads of State and Government,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
On behalf of the Romanian Government and the President of Romania I wish to express the
satisfaction for the organization of the present High Level meeting of the Black Sea
Economic Cooperation countries. I am adressing, in the same time, cordial congratulations to
the delegation of the Russian Federation for this valuable initiative, as well as for the
excellent organization of this meeting.
Our new meeting is a very opportune one. The Black Sea Trade and Development Bank will
start its activity soon. This will give to the cooperation between our countries a concrete
substance - of working out and achieving specific regional programs and projects in the area
of Black Sea. I am glad that Romania is a country which contributed to the entry into
operation of the bank. Now, our main attention is oriented to define projects of interest for
our country as well as for other countries of the area, to be financed and achieved as
programs of subregional cooperation.We have in mind to propose in the next stage such
projects and, in the same time, we will be receptive to the projects imagined and proposed by
other states of this organization.
In this connection, I would like to stress the particularly important role the participation of
private capital, within this area and beyond it, is going to play in the working out and
achieving regional projects in this area.
Therefore, the periodical organization of international meetings like the Businessmen Forum,
which took place in Bucharest in the spring of this year, is of a nature to attract the attention
of the community of businessmen to the huge cooperation potential represented by the area of
Black Sea.
We appreciate as being very important, in the present stage of our cooperation, the further
strengthening, from the institutional and juridical point of view, of the Black Sea Economic
Cooperation as well as the increasing of the efficiency of its mechanisms and activities. In
our view, a more clear definition of the international identity of Black Sea Economic
Cooperation is of a nature to encourage the amplification of the relations with other
subregional structures and with European, Euro-Atlantic and world organizations and
institutions.
In this connection we are granting a particular significance to the extension of cooperation
between BSEC countries and the countries members of Central European Initiative in items
concerning the updating of the transport infrastructure. As a country member of BSEC as
well as of the CEI, Romania supports the extension of this cooperation to other fields of
common interest, as communication and power infrastructures, environment protection,
tourism. We are also in favour of developing similar cooperation activities with other
subregional organizations, especially with the Council of the States of Baltic Sea and with the
Mediterranean Forum.
We highly appreciate the interest and the support of the main European, Euro-Atlantic and
world organizations, especially the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, the
European Union, the Council of Europe, the Economic Commission of United Nations for
Europe, United Nations Industrial Development Organization, FAO, United Nations
Development Program, the World Bank , for the Black Sea Economic Cooperation. This
position represents, in our opinion, the recognition of the fact that this subregional
cooperation structure represents an essential constitutive part, and not an alternative or a
substitute,to the European integration processes. It is, also, an expression of the
acknowledgment of the contribution BSCE is bringing, through its activities, to the
consolidation of the stability and security in the area of the Black Sea and accordingly in the
whole Europe.
When we are speaking about the stability and the security of the Black Sea region, we have in
mind also that these are serving, indeed, in the highest degree, the interests of the whole
continent. It is not a secret that the Danube Mouth and the basin of the Black Sea represent
the main gate of Europe for east and south-east and, in the same time, an open window of the
continent to other regions and civilizations of major interest for the European destiny.
These were also, by the way, the conclusions of the recent international conference,
organized in Bucharest by the Institute for East-West Studies, in cooperation with the
Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs with the theme : "Multidimensional integration: the
subregional dimension". This conference drew in essence the conclusion that the
organizations of subregional cooperation, inclusively the BSEC, represent an important pillar
of the new model of European security for the XXI century, which will be examined at the
next high level meeting of OSCE in Lisbon.
Mr. President,
I would like to notice, at the end, the understanding and the cordiality of the works of the
present High Level meeting and, generally, of our multilateral cooperation in the area of the
Black Sea.
This reinforces our belief that, acting for the amplification of this cooperation, we are
contributing to the economic and social development of every one of our countries, to the
consolidation of democratic institutions in the wide region of the Black Sea, to the cultivation
of the relations of understanding and good neighbourhood between our nations and,
consequently, to the European integration, stability and security.
Thank you for your attention.
STATEMENT
BY
H.E. VIKTOR CHERNOMYRDIN,
PRIME MINISTER OF THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION
Esteemed Participants of the Meeting,
Let me open the discussion of our agenda with the following considerations.
First and foremost. I believe that we can all state that the idea of the Black Sea
Economic Cooperation has not only acquired a definite shape, but also a solid
foundation. Today, the BSEC means real institutions, mechanisms and projects of
cooperation.
Owing to our joint efforts the BSEC has become an important and dynamically
growing factor of international life.
The main reference point was chosen correctly. The constructive dialogue between
the Participating States, open and equal partnership, respect for mutual interests and
international law and action-oriented attitude have allowed us to get significant
results over the past four years.
We believe that a major result of our efforts, inter alia, in the period of Russia’s
Chairmanship in the BSEC, is the entry into force of the Agreement Establishing the
Black Sea Trade and Development Bank. The Bank has been established de jure and
we believe that it will become operational in early 1997. Naturally, national
contributions to the Bank’s authorized capital should be made in January 1997 at the
latest.
As one of the leading shareholders of the Bank, Russia is prepared and intends to
continue to contribute actively to its formation and future operations, which will
become a significant contribution to the strengthening of the institutional and
financial framework of our cooperation in the most important sphere, the sphere of
investments.
I would also like to note in this regard the importance of the BSEC Guidelines for
investment partnership, as adopted today at the Meeting of our Foreign Ministers,
which clearly define directions of practical activities in this sphere and provide a basis
for the development of relevant multilateral agreements in the future.
Second. The powerful potential of the Black Sea region in the field of
communications and development of the related infrastructure is becoming ever more
prominent.
The BSEC has embarked on the development of megaprojects in the field of transport,
whose significance is not limited to the Black Sea as such. Their implementation will
contribute to the development of a highly effective and reliable transport system in the
region, which will not only interconnect the BSEC countries but also integrate them
into trans-European communications networks and provide for the transportation of
goods between the countries of Europe and the great Asian continent.
Russia makes efforts to join this transport system bringing in its capability to use the
Russian inland navigation fleet for the carriage of goods via the Volga-Don channel
thus ensuring the most economical route for the transportation of goods from the
Black Sea region to the Caspian and the Baltic Sea regions. Russian engineers and
constructors are also prepared to contribute to the implementation of infrastructure
projects in other BSEC countries, including in the Balkans.
We have made a major progress in the electric power production sector. In late
September in Moscow, the eight BSEC countries signed and opened for signature and
accession by other members a Memorandum providing for the consolidation of the
energy systems of the BSEC countries into a single network connected to systems of
adjoining regions of Europe, the Mediterranean, Middle East, and the Caspian.
Establishment of an efficient and reliable energy resources transportation system
ensuring the ecological security of the Black Sea is a major short-term goal for the
countries of the region. Of course, this would require the use of modern oil
transshipment technologies and the provision of safe navigation. We proceed from the
assumption that this task can only be fulfilled through consideration for legitimate
interests of the Participating States and strict observance of the principles of
international law.
The implementation of a large-scale ITUR fiber optic communications project
(Italy, Turkey, Ukraine, Russia) with the use of modern high technologies, to be
completed already this year, provides a clear example of the opportunities existing in
the Black Sea region.
After its connection to the transcontinental fiber optic cable Denmark-St. PetersburgKhabarovsk-Japan-South Korea it will provide large-scale transmission of
information and communication of the Mediterranean, Black Sea and Middle East
regions with industrially developed European, ASPAR and North American countries.
Moreover, the regional fiber optic communication line Varna-OdessaNovorossiysk-Poti will become operational by the end of this year.
Third. Expansion of mutual trade and economic ties between Participating States
makes ever more urgent the examination of possibilities for the provision of mutual
trade preferences and the eventual establishment of a free-trade zone in the
BSEC with due regard, of course, for the existing international legal obligations of
the member countries in this field.
Russia will pay appropriate attention to this issue, since the BSEC countries account
for about 16 per cent of our foreign trade turnover.
Distinguished Heads of State or Government,
Our common care for the future of the Black Sea region and its transformation, on the
basis of open cooperation and partnership, into a zone of stability and prosperity, a
region which would take its proper place in Europe and the world community at large,
prompts us, in addition to considering economic issues which constitute the basic
mandate and are the absolute priority of the BSEC, to meet new challenges of our life,
search for responses and for joint action.
We consider recent steps taken by the BSEC in combating organized crime,
terrorism, illicit drugs and arms trafficking, etc., as very timely. Therefore, in the
next passage of my statement I would like to stress the need to continue this work
and instruct appropriate bodies to promptly develop programs of cooperation in the
above-mentioned fields. In our view, it would be useful to develop closer
cooperation between border, customs and immigration authorities.
Development of interaction between rescue teams for joint operations in emergencies
to mitigate and eliminate consequences of natural and technogenic disasters also
seems to be an urgent task. In accordance with the decision taken by the Seventh
Meeting of the BSEC Foreign Ministers in Bucharest the Russian side has prepared
a draft of such an agreement, which will be transmitted to the member countries
in the near future.
I would like to take this opportunity to point out that all measures agreed upon by our
countries in Bucharest this April, when Russia took the Chairmanship in the BSEC,
are either realized or nearing completion.
Russia intends to continue building up its contribution to all aspects of the BSEC
activities. To this end, we plan to develop in Russia a special federal program of
participation in the Black Sea Economic Cooperation.
Furthermore, the implementation of a number of major BSEC projects, diversity of
the tasks to be fulfilled, including economic, financial and social tasks as well as
those in the sphere of crime control cooperation, require a higher level of interstate
cooperation. In that respect, I think it is quite reasonable to raise a question about
institutionalizing the BSEC so that it become a full-size regional international
organization designed to ensure more effective coordination both at the
intergovernmental and sectoral levels.
I propose to support the decision of the Eighth Meeting of the Ministers of Foreign
Affairs of the BSEC Participating States to conclude that work in 1997 with the
elaboration of corresponding international legal instruments.
We should also consider establishment within the system of the BSEC bodies, of a
consultation mechanism to discuss, including in a preventive order, these problems
and other vital challenges of our time, which are relevant to the region.
Considering the applications received from a number of countries requiring
membership or observer status in the BSEC, we will have to decide on the criteria for
membership or observer status in the BSEC. While open in principle for international
cooperation, in 1997 the BSEC countries should develop clear-cut criteria for
consideration of applications by countries concerned as regards their membership or
observer status in BSEC. Until a decision is taken in the BSEC on a specific
application, the country concerned could be invited to the meetings of Foreign
Ministers or senior officials as a guest.
And finally, the last issue to which I would like to draw your attention. The
regular political dialogue maintained by our States, including at a high and the highest
levels, joint constructive work on major economic projects of transregional
significance, growing ties between countries, cities, enterprises and people, and the
atmosphere of effective cooperation and trust which is being created on this basis thus
making the BSEC an ever more important factor of economic and political stability in
the region.
At present, the BSEC is one of the few really open non-bloc regional
organizations. The BSEC model is a promising mechanism of establishing a
balance of common interests which harmoniously fits in the system of allEuropean security and cooperation.
Having accumulated a unique experience in combining a broad range of political,
economic, social and cultural interests of member States, the BSEC as a regional
organization can be more active in contributing to the development of a new
European security model, putting an emphasis on the promotion of its economic
component.
Thus, the BSEC region like other sub-regional formats of cooperation in Europe - the
Central European Initiative, Council of the Baltic Sea States and Barentz/Euro-Arctic
Council - will be increasingly involved in the process of the European economic
integration.
Specifically, the BSEC and its institutions could also make their contribution to the
projects for economic restoration in the Balkans, which, we believe, should have a
universal character, leaving no “grey spots” on the map of cooperation. This involves
directly economic interests of the BSEC countries, and will be of great importance for
strengthening stability on the whole of the European continent. An important element
in the BSEC activities could also be development of expanded cooperation with other
states in the fields of trade, investment, infrastructure and ecology.
In this regard, it would be useful to establish interaction with the Barcelona
cooperation process between the EC and the Mediterranean region, and to set a
platform for relations and cooperation with the OSCE, the European Union, other
regional organizations and international financial institutions.
The valuable contribution of the BSEC to European stability and security should be
further increased. At the same time it is important that no steps should be taken which
could disturb the existing balance of stability in the Black Sea region, or result in the
appearance of new bloc-based dividing lines there and in the whole of Europe.
Esteemed Heads of State or Government,
Today, we find ourselves at a qualitatively new stage of the BSEC development.
For the first time, the Participating States after consideration of economic problems
have moved on to the discussion of international, humanitarian and other related
aspects of cooperation in the Black Sea region actively promoting the creation of a
climate of stability and confidence, necessary for large-scale economic cooperation.
The proposed draft Declaration to be adopted as the final document of our
Meeting is also an evidence of such profound qualitative changes.
I express my firm belief that the adoption of the Declaration of the Moscow Meeting
of Heads of State or Government, as well as our joint efforts aimed at its
implementation and further development of the BSEC, will make it possible to cope
with the historic task of ensuring stable peace and prosperity of our countries and
peoples, and enable the Black Sea region to take the position it deserves within the
international community.
Thank you for your attention.
STATEMENT
BY
H.E. LEONID KUCHMA,
PRESIDENT OF UKRAINE
Distinguished Mr. Chairman,
Distinguished Heads of State or Government,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
First of all I would like to extend my thanks to the Russian side for the initiative it has
taken in holding the Summit of the BSEC Participating States and perfectly
organizing it.
This Meeting is important not only because it supports the dynamics of the
development of the Black Sea process. It becomes more urgent as we, in the context
of the Lisbon Summit of OSCE, are discussing the future model of European security
in the 21st century more actively.
It is indeed a pleasure for me to meet my colleagues from the BSEC Participating
States especially now, when Ukraine has celebrated the 5th anniversary of its
independence. We met this date with a new Constitution, in which standards of the
democratic development, promoting further positive changes in all the spheres of our
life, are secured.
Today we can already speak of having finalized an important stage in forming our
economy. This allowed us to stabilize the financial system, master inflation, introduce
the constant monetary unit - grivna.
Asserting Ukraine as an independent state, in fact, we come back to historic
traditions, that determine our natural place as a full and equal member of European
community.
This fact determines our active position in building new European architecture of
security. It is our deep belief that this structure has to unite all the interested countries
of the Euro-Atlantic region.
I hope you will agree with me that the constructive and fruitful cooperation of the
post-Soviet and European Union states, in the framework of BSEC, can and must
become an example for a creating new Europe without dividing lines.
In this context we welcome and highly appreciate active participation of Russia - our
strategic partner in the Black Sea process. We note with satisfaction the
intensification of cooperation with Moldova, Georgia, other CIS countries as well as
with Bulgaria, Greece and Turkey both at bilateral level, and in the framework of the
BSEC.
With a view to making our own contribution into establishing the atmosphere of
peace, stability and fruitful cooperation in the Black Sea region, in November 1993
Ukraine took the initiative “Towards Economic Cooperation through Trust”. This
initiative will promote regulating military activities in the Black Sea basin.
We urge our partners to actively discuss and implement this initiative.
In European context we view the BSEC, first of all, as a mechanism of interaction of
state and entrepreneurial structures that has to provide for the development of
economic cooperation of the Participating States with a view to full-fledged
participation in the economic space of the continent. The working bodies of the BSEC
should be a means of promoting it, while this criterion should be used for evaluating
the effectiveness of cooperation.
I would like to note with satisfaction that Ukraine highly appreciates the activities of
the BSEC structure that are directed towards setting up cooperation with the
institutions of the European Commission and regional organizations. In the first
place, we mean those organizations that hold all-European cooperation as their goal,
namely, within the framework of the Central European Initiative.
In this context Ukraine is offering to organize next year together with the European
Commission a regional conference of Ministers of Transport. This conference, in fact,
will be a continuation of the Conference of the Ministers of Transport of the BSEC
and CEI to be held in Sofia. These events will ensure the development of transport
communications in the region within the framework of the all-European transport
network.
The issues of liberalizing the foreign-trade regimes, eliminating all barriers to free
trade in the Black Sea region are Ukraine’s top priority list.
Recently in Ukraine foreign trade has been practically fully liberalized. A very
important step has been made towards transferring from totalitarian non-tariff
regulating to mainly economic one.
That is why we meet with understanding the fact that the BSEC Participating States
supported expediency of setting up a free-trade zone in the region and are prepared to
exert effort to this end. We would like to propose to hold a conference of ministers
responsible for foreign economic activity , where practical steps in this direction
could discussed.
We hold high abilities of the BSEC to provide financing of economic reforms taking
place in the countries of the region.
Ukraine is interested in attracting foreign investments. In particular, a law on
“Regime for Foreign Investments”, which levels the conditions of investment
activities of local and foreign investors and simplifies the conditions of investing
foreign capital in the economy of Ukraine has been adopted.
A draft law on “Providing Favorable Regime for Investments and Other Economic
Activities with a View to Implementing Some Investment Projects” is being worked
out. National Agency for Reconstruction and Development has been set up, as well as
Ukrainian State Credit-Investment Company that comprises an autonomous body Agency for Supporting Foreign Investments. With a view of financing the
development of medium-and small-scale business setting up Ukrainian Credit
Institution is envisaged; respective Draft Law has already been elaborated.
Thanks to the legislative basis and financial stability that has already been achieved,
we expect to see substantial increase of investment activity. We are also calling the
BSEC States to invest in Ukraine which has got a considerable investment potential.
The situation is similar in many countries of the region. It shows how important their
concerted action is. Coordinating efforts should be exerted to encourage foreign
investors to invest into the economy of the Black Sea states. With this in view, an
investment forum, “Crimea 96” was held in Ukraine, in the framework of which a
number of perspective projects was presented.
Market reforms promote increasing the importance of private enterprise in the
development of economic cooperation. Private entrepreneurs must become and are
already becoming main actors at the regional market that is springing up in the Black
Sea region. We should do our best to assist these processes.
It is also important to contact regional economic organizations. We are offering you to
consider conducting in future of a business-forum with the Secretariat of
MERCOSUR, at which business contacts could be made and developed not only in
the Black Sea region but also with potential partners in Latin America. I know that
among the participants of our meeting there are advocates of the idea of closer
regional cooperation.
Distinguished participants,
Fully sharing the provisions of the Final Document that is adopted at our meeting, we
would like it to become an effective instrument for further development of the Black
Sea region as an integral part of new Europe.
We are sure that realizing the ideas and principles of the Document, that are directed
at developing cooperation, partnership, providing stability and economic prosperity
will serve reaching the main aim - improving the living and working conditions of the
citizens of our countries.
We support the guidelines of the Final Document, that are directed at activation and
concrete definition of joint efforts in the fields of transport, communications, energy,
industry, protection of environment, investment activity.
In conclusion, I would like to wish peace, stability and economic prosperity to each
state and the Black Sea region on the whole.
Thank you for your attention.
STATEMENT
BY
H.E. SÜLEYMAN DEMIREL,
PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF TURKEY
Mr. Chairman,
Distinguished Presidents and Heads of Government,
Distinguished Delegates,
I wish to extend our profound gratitude to the Government of the Russian Federation as well
as to you Mr. Chairman for the impressive arrangements offered at our disposal and the warm
hospitality accorded to myself and my delegation in Moscow. The Russian Chairmanship
also deserves wholehearted congratulations for its very active, stimulating and successful
term of office.
Today, globalism is the mainstay of international relations. And, regional groupings have
become the focal points of international cooperation. Among regional economic schemes,
the Black Sea Economic Cooperation has featured prominently on the regional cooperation
agenda for more than four years. It is still growing strong as a successful regional initiative,
because its members have the political will to keep it that way.
The first Black Sea Economic Cooperation Summit in Istanbul brought us together to sign the
birth certificate of the BSEC. The High Level Meeting of Bucharest marked the milestone
where the governments handed over the flag to the private sector. The High Level Meeting
of Moscow will be yet another important step forward in strengthening the cooperation
process. It will provide us with the opportunity to review our orientations and priorities as
well as to develop visions for the future.
Mr. Chairman,
The time has now come to set the Black Sea Economic Cooperation on a solid legal basis
with an international document to be ratified by our respective parliaments, thereby
consolidating its international stature. An identity as such, which is needed for practical
reasons, will invariably place the Black Sea at the forefront of the regional economic
organisations, and thus, accord it more international acceptance and status.
Most of the nations comprising the Black Sea Economic Cooperation initiative had been
distanced from each other because of political preferences of the past. But today, thanks to
this creative initiative we are proud that the appeal of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation is
growing every day. The growing number of applicants for full membership and observer
status is a clear indication that we are on the right track. This is a motivating factor to make
this regional initiative of ours more attractive for foreign investors and joint venture partners.
We are particularly satisfied by the wish of the successor states of the Former Yugoslavia to
join in the Black Sea Economic Cooperation family. This will certainly widen this initiative's
sphere of interest. At this rate of enlargement the Black Sea Economic Cooperation will
become influential in a vast geographic area stretching from the Adriatic to the Pacific.
Most of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation States are preparing themselves for full
integration with Europe. Their minds are set on a future where the freedom of movement of
capital, goods and services between the communities of the "Black Sea" and the European
Union will eventually prevail. Such dynamic regional economic cooperation schemes like the
Black Sea Economic Cooperation will contribute to the European integration process. Indeed,
the Black Sea Economic Cooperation and the European Union are complementary in nature.
In this sense, the Black Sea Economic Cooperation will be one of the important pillars of the
overall European architecture. The European and other international economic and financial
institutions should therefore help contribute to make the Black Sea Economic Cooperation
more efficient and beneficial for all. These international institutions have already established
dialogue and are developing structured relations with the Black Sea Secretariat. Turkey
encourages them to continue their support.
The customs union of Turkey with the EU is a window of opportunity opening up European
markets not only for Turkish producers but also for its Black Sea Economic Cooperation
partners.
Therefore, the Black Sea Economic Cooperation should be developed so that it remains
interlinked with the EU. The advantage speaks for itself. The Black Sea Economic
Cooperation has a life of its own at the crossroads of Eurasia and its sphere of interest
extends from Europe to Asia.
Mr. Chairman,
Distinguished Heads of State and Government,
The Black Sea initiative's performance so far has been nothing less than remarkable. Within
a short span of four years, it has constructed its institutional framework, launched concrete
projects and galvanized a series of activities. We value these as precursors for further
progress ahead.
No less than 18 working groups are in the process of identifying, designing and developing
concrete projects for the areas ranging from transportation to telecommunications, from
energy to tourism, from agriculture to environment. Some of these projects are already
completed, most of them are underway. Now that the Black Sea Trade and Development
Bank is becoming operational, the institutional framework of the Black Sea Economic
Cooperation is practically complete. We hope that the projects in its pipeline will find a
proper channel for financial outlets.
One of the concrete outputs of the BSEC is its value-added effect on intra-regional trade. The
comparison of trade figures of Turkey with its Black Sea Economic Cooperation partners
before and after its establishment indicates a quantum leap. The exports of Turkey to the
BSEC countries after 1992 have increased from 3 percent to 57 percent. And, the imports
rose from 15 percent to 59 percent. It is a fact that the Black Sea Economic Cooperation
significantly contributed to this increase and induced dynamism into the trade transactions.
In the long run, free movement of capital, goods and services, as well as people, must be
assured. We have to create the necessary preconditions for a free trade area in the Black Sea
as a future framework. The perspective of a free trade area will give stronger impetus to the
process of economic and legal reforms, necessitating the establishment of fiscal and financial
institutions and the enactment of pertinent legislation.
Mr. Chairman,
The new fabric of international relations is being woven by democracy, rule of law and
market rationale. The awareness that peace, stability and shared prosperity can only be
attained through cooperation is ever growing. Turkey defends and promotes these principles
within the Black Sea Economic Cooperation and considers them as our compass for a better
world.
The Black Sea Economic Cooperation is also a partnership for development and democracy.
Democratic values such as pluralism, respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms are
needed to take root in the Black Sea region. In this respect, the Parliamentary Assembly of
the Black Sea Economic Cooperation has a functional role in building democratic institutions
and cultivating the political culture, along with creating the necessary legislation to facilitate
the transition to pluralistic democracy and market economy. Therefore, we believe that a
functional consultative mechanism between the Black Sea Economic Cooperation and the
Parliamentary Assembly will expedite the realization of our expectations.
The concept of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation is based on the dynamism, innovative
approach and entrepreneurship of the private sector. The engine of its model is built on the
private initiative. The responsibility that thus befalls on the governments is to create the right
environment for the private sector and businessmen to function smoothly. In the practical
operation of this model, the Business Council has a pivotal role to play. We are strongly
convinced that the role of the Business Council could be improved with the growth of our
private sectors and with a more comprehensive approach, bringing into the system the
representatives of all the segments of the business community.
The ultimate objective of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation is to turn the Black Sea
region into a zone of stability and security through economic prosperity. We can reach this
goal by creating the conditions for sustainable development and by promoting democracy.
We need security and stability not only in the Black Sea region but also in the periphery. We
have no doubt that the peace in the region will, in turn, have positive impact beyond its
borders.
The Black Sea Economic Cooperation must also be instrumental in the fight against common
transnational threats such as terrorism, illicit drugs, arms trafficking and organised crime,
which impede the economic cooperation efforts. We look upon the recent Meeting of
Ministers of Interior in Yerevan as our first common enterprise towards this end.
Mr. Chairman,
Economic cooperation and ensuing political confidence-building cannot be completed
without cultural integration. Therefore, we believe that the Black Sea initiative should
pursue a comprehensive cultural exchange among the peoples of its members at the grassroots level. The cooperation should ensure the participation of all members of our societies.
In this context youth and women associations, academic institutions, and media are fertile
fields to be cultivated.
Although the Black Sea Economic Cooperation has covered considerable distance within a
short term, the success of promoting the results of its cooperation is not commensurate with
the actual achievements. The public should be better informed of its actual accomplishments.
This is needed not only to promote its real image but also to attract all the potential
stakeholders to invest in the future of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation.
Regional cooperation is a long term investment based on a clear vision. And, our vision is to
make the Black Sea a prosperous region, free of tensions and confrontations. Such a vision
demands political will, cooperative commitment, innovative approach and mutual trust.
Since we have the political will we must continue to work patiently to make the rest happen,
for, we are investing in our common future.
I thank you.