Unemployment and the Balkans on the Agenda of the Council in Cologne (3-4 June)

In the presence of Romano Prodi, Designated President of the Commission, on the morning of Thursday 3/06/1999, the EU Heads of State and Government discussed a common strategy of the European Union for Russia and adopted a declaration on strengthening the Common Foreign and Security Policy. In the afternoon session, the leaders took initiative for a European Employment Pact aimed at sustainable reduction of unemployment. Additionally, they discussed the development of institutional reforms.
The Finnish President Ahtisaari gave a report on his mission to Kosovo and described the “breakthrough” for building peace in the region.
During dinner, the politicians appointed Javier Solana as the head of Common Foreign and Security Policy.
The EU Heads of State and Government expressed their satisfaction with the results of the European Council and the importance of continuing the peace process in the Balkans (stability pact).
Furthermore, the European Council confirmed its intention to convene a Conference of Representatives of the Governments of the member states in early 2000 to resolve the institutional issues that remained open in Amsterdam and must be settled before enlargement. The Conference should take place before the end of 2000 and the necessary amendments to the Treaties should be agreed on the same date.