... comes from Sweden's prime minister, Goran Perrsons', recent speech to the country's parliament, the Riksdag:

"The Swedish EU Presidency comes at a historic point in time, during a period in which the EU is characterised by great changes.

The EU is going to welcome a large number of new members, and its working procedures are to be improved in order to function in a much bigger union. The goal of full employment is to be achieved throughout Europe. Environmental destruction is to be stemmed. An increasingly globalised capital is to be managed. Demographic development is to be met without lowering the ambitions for security and welfare. The struggle against xenophobia, international crime and trafficking in human beings is to be intensified.

Swedish commitment to all these issues is strong - both among elected representatives and among citizens. Three of these issues will receive particular priority during the Swedish Presidency: enlargement, employment and environment."