Poland expected to close energy chapter in EU accession talks today

Poland is on the point of completing talks on energy issues, in a breakthrough that could boost its slow-moving negotiations on joining the European Union (EU). Discussions on the energy chapter are due to be closed in Brussels today, after Poland modified its stance on gas market liberalization, and reduced its demands for a delay in adopting EU norms for State fuel reserves. "We are almost certain to seal this chapter on Friday, especially after the cabinet modified its position on key issues," said Ewa Haczyk, spokesperson for chief EU entry negotiator, Jan Kulakowski. Poland has to date closed 16 out of the 31 chapters that need to be negotiated prior to EU entry. Kulakowski has said that Poland should be ready to complete talks on taxation, the environment, fisheries, company law and transport policy, as well as justice and home affairs, in the second half of this year. There are also plans to begin the most problematic talks, on agriculture and the free flow of labor and capital, before the end of the year. However, little progress is expected in EU accession negotiations before parliamentary elections in September. (Reuters)