The European Union is a union of fifteen independent states bases on the European Communities that was founded in 1993 in order to enhance political, economic and social co-operation. The 15 participating countries are the following: - Austria - Germany - Holland - Belgium - Greece - Portugal - Denmark - Ireland - Spain - Finland - Italy - Sweden - France - Luxembourg - United Kingdom All these countries, although different in opinion, traditions, are united …showed first 75 words of 1309 total…

…showed last 75 words of 1309 total…and cultures. With its advanced technical infrastructure and skilled human resources it can become a bridge from where European enterprises launch their activities. Moreover, it can act as a shield, protecting Europe from the inflow of narcotics, trafficking in human beings and the threat of terrorism." Reference library: The Republic of Cyprus homepage The United Nations and European Union homepage Europa - The European Union official homepage Bulletin of the European Union - European Commiision (11.1998)