Statement EU on French Referendum

Brussels, 29 May 2005 S199/05

Statement

Javier Solana, EU High Representative for the CFSP
expresses regret over the outcome of the referendum in France
on the Treaty establishing a Constitution for Europe

"The French people have expressed their choice. They have ultimately preferred not to support the Treaty establishing a European Constitution.

I evidently respect their choice, but I also regret it with an equal measure of sincerity.

Europe needs its people, but each one of us also needs her. Europe is, above all else, a venture of hope.

Consultations will start. The new situation arising as a result of the vote in France as well as the repercussions thereof will need to be analysed in a calm and lucid manner."