German bank predicts Central European countries not ready for EU until 2005

Poland, Czech Republic, and Hungary have no chance of entering the European Union (EU) by 2003, say experts from GD Bank, one of the main German banks. In their opinion the earliest possible date is 2005, because the talks are progressing very slowly. Of the 31 requirements for candidate countries, Poland has only adjusted to 12. One of the main problems still to be settled by the government, is agriculture. To receive help from the EU, Poland must first take steps to reform this sector. Moreover, joining the EU may be further delayed by the confusion caused by the parliamentary elections next year. (Prawo i Gospodarka, page 2)