The Warsaw Summit held in 2005 adopted a new strategic programme for the Organisation. Now, the time has come to further develop and accelerate the implementation of its strategic goals and to raise its political profile.

The credibility of the Council of Europe is based on avoiding double standards in assessing the performance of Member States. The European family shall not be perceived as divided into “teachers” and “pupils”.

The Council of Europe has accumulated an impressive body of standards, obligations and commitments. It is increasingly important to focus more on their implementation.

Facing budgetary constraints, the Council of Europe should further explore possibilities of streamlining its activities..

As the Council of Europe celebrates its Sixtieth Anniversary, a new impetus should be given to the work of the Organisation. This new impetus can make the work of the Council of Europe more meaningful and politically effective and the contribution of all involved in the day-by-day activities of the Organisation more rewarding. With the Secretary General as a catalyst of this process, we will succeed.