We must explain that the ten accession countries hoping to join the EU are very advanced and forward thinking countries who in the short time since they shed the shackles of Moscow domination have made quantum leaps forward, developing their democratic institutions and economies. The Czech Republic, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Hungary, Poland, Slovakia and Slovenia have adapted and adjusted their political philosophies and economies in such a short time that they have every right to be part of the united states of Europe. Cyprus and Malta are credible candidates for accession. Membership of the EU is the perfect solution to the tribal tensions that have divided the island of Cyprus for so long, particularly if Turkey, which has been given candidate status, eventually succeeds in gaining entry.