20 years of EU expansion: big festival at the three -country point - Europe festival at the three -country point of the Czech Republic, Germany and Poland

20 years of EU expansion: big festival at the three -country point - Europe festival at the three -country point of the Czech Republic, Germany and Poland

On April 27, a large European festival will take place at the Dreilandpunkt Czech Republic, Germany and Poland to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the EU expansion. The festival is organized by the European Parliament's liaison office in Germany in cooperation with the European Commission and other partners. Visitors can look forward to a varied program with stage appearances from the three countries. In addition, you have the opportunity to answer questions directly with the MEPs Anna Cavazzini (Greens), Dr. Peter Jahr (CDU) or Helmut Scholz (left).

The European Festival also offers the opportunity to find out about European topics, cross -border cooperation and the upcoming election to the European Parliament on June 9th. Information about Europe and hands -on activities for children and families is offered. Regional culinary specialties are also presented. European Express Railways provide a relaxed journey.

The EU expansion in 2004 was a historical step in which ten new countries of the European Union joined. This led to an increase in EU citizens by around 75 million people. The expansion was the result of the political upheaval in Central and Eastern Europe in 1989/1990.

In connection with the European Festival, the upcoming European elections are also pointed out. Around 400 million people in the EU can choose the new European Parliament from June 6th to June 9th. In Germany, the elections traditionally take place on Sunday, so the polling stations in this country are open on June 9th. The chosen MEPs will play a decisive role in EU politics over the next five years because they adopt laws. The special thing about this choice is that for the first time all Germans and EU citizens over 16 who have their place of residence in Germany.

Europe day on May 9 reminds you that Europe lives in peace and unity. He goes back to the Schuman declaration of 1950, in which French Foreign Minister Robert Schuman then presented his vision of political cooperation in Europe. The European Festival offers visitors the opportunity to learn more about the EU as part of guided tours, debates, concerts and other events.

The European Festival at the Dreilandpunkt Czech Republic, Germany and Poland is an initiative of the connecting office of the European Parliament in Germany and the representation of the European Commission in Germany. It is organized in cooperation with the Zittau, Bogatynia and Hrádek N.N., the Saxon State Ministry of Justice and for democracy, Europe and equality and other partners.

Table: EU expansion 2004

| Land | Access date |
| ————— | ————- |
| Estonia | May 1, 2004 |
| Latvia | May 1, 2004 |
| Lithuania | May 1, 2004 |
| Poland | May 1, 2004 |
| Czech Republic | May 1, 2004 |
| Hungary | May 1, 2004 |
| Slovakia | May 1, 2004 |
| Slovenia | May 1, 2004 |
| Cyprus | May 1, 2004 |
| Malta | May 1, 2004 |

Source: self -research

The European Festival at the Dreilandpunkt Czech Republic, Germany and Poland offers a unique opportunity to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the EU expansion and at the same time get information about the European elections. Visitors can look forward to a varied program with cultural performances, political speed dating and hands-on activities and enjoy regional specialties. The event is free of charge and European Express railways are available.

Source: European Parliament/OTS