European Commission report gives Poland a favorable appraisal on reforms

According to a preliminary version of the European Commission (EC) report on Poland's preparations to join European Union (EU) the situation has improved but is far from ideal. This year's report praises the creation of the European law commission in Sejm as well as the government' s decision to accelerate the adjustment of Polish law to the European standards. Particularly, the Commission emphasizes the positive influence of Prime Minister Jerzy Buzek, although stressing that he is "a helpless hostage" of Solidarity Election Action's (AWS) leaders. Additionally, the report stresses that Poland needs to counter corruption more effectively and end support to the Special Economic Zones (SSE) which are in breach of European law. (Gazeta Wyborcza, page 24)