Several Eastern European countries have already joined the OECD as members and are knocking on the door of the European Union. Although eventual EU membership is a process that will require some time, it is a realistic perspective. The European Union is in the process of completing a process of deepening cooperation, which will find its preliminary climax in the establishment of the euro.
Subsequent to the creation of full monetary union we may expect the EU to turn its sights eastwards, leading to an ever more integrated Europe. Let me conclude by reaffirming that the Marshall Plan was an important part of the foundation for post-war European recovery. At the same time, Marshall aid was more than the transfer of money alone.