The Eastern enlargement of the European Union (EU) is being discussed from a different perspective since the applications of ten Central and East European Countries (CEECs) and two Mediterranean countries for full membership. Cyprus and Malta form part of the enlargement process, thus, giving rise to the existence of whether or not there should be a Mediterranean dimension in the Eastern enlargement. The study underlies the theoretical framework for the assessment of the foreign policies of Malta and Cyprus through a "small state" approach. In addition, the study explores the impact of EU membership of the two Mediterranean island-states on the EU itself and on the small states involved. The main purpose of this essay is to examine the diplomacy of small states like Malta and Cyprus in the Eastern enlargement of the EU, thereby accounting for the reasons why these two states applied for membership of the EU and explaining whether they can bring the Mediterranean area to the attention of the EU.
Relation:
Tamkang Journal of International Affairs=淡江國際研究 17(1), p.49-86
