The UElement.- Good morning, we are delighted that you are here with us today to discuss the issue of the entry of Spain into the European Union and its consequences.

Firstly, do you think this integration was a good idea?

Francesca Muolo.- Yes, I think this was a good idea.

 

TUE.- What are the benefits that has provided this change?

FM.- The benefits that this change has brought are many. Firstly, it has favored the Spanish economic development and its convergence with the European Union, although considerable distances still persist in very important areas. The participation in the euro has provided greater stability to the economic growth. Among the immediate challenges are tagged the enlargement in eastern Europe and the contribution of the development of the Mediterranean basin.

 

TUE.-And the negatives?

FM.- The negatives are, firstly, the political and economical consequences, as the industrial sector has suffered heavily in the steel and shipbuilding industry. Regarding the agricultural sector, the trade has had a large increase, but the traditional deficit in the trade balance persists. The liberalization of the air transport has been difficult for Iberia, which has had to reduce staff.

 

TUE.- From your point of view, should Spain still remain part of this political community?

FM.- Yes, I believe that Spain should remain part of this political community.

 

TUE.- Finally, if I say ‘European Union’, what is the first word that comes to your head?

FM.- From my point of view, the European Union is a geopolitical entity that covers much of the European continent.

 

TUE.- Thank you very much Francesca for your time to answering our questions.