"The Black Sea Economic Cooperation has developed into a mature regional organization. It is tackling ever-new tasks, streamlining its institutional structure, and improving its practical achievements. The Organization is destined to play a prominent part in the new, 21st century European architecture as it promotes Black Sea countries' rapprochement with the European Union.
"Conferences on such topical issues as security, public order, transport, energy and tourism strengthen and extend contacts between Organization member countries," said Mr. Karamanlis.
He appreciated just as highly Organization partnership with the European Union, and the United Nations' recognition of its merits and achievements.
With today's session, Greece is finishing its six-month Organization chairmanship. The conference has gathered delegates of Albania, Azerbaijan, Bulgaria, Georgia, Greece, Moldova, Romania, Russia, Serbia-Montenegro, Turkey and Ukraine. Representing Russia is Vladimir Chizhov, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs.
