The integration of the candidate countries with the EU runs deep. The EU is by far the most important trading partner of the accession candidates. Around two-thirds of their exports are destined for the 15 EU member states. In addition, two-thirds of capital inflows in the accession candidates during the nineties originated from the European Union.
Real and structural convergence increase with ongoing economic and financial integration. Ladies and gentlemen, EU enlargement is in fact a challenge. A lot of political work is yet to be done.