BUDAPEST, Hungary – A top EU official told Hungarians on Thursday to
think not only about what they have to gain from union membership, but
also about what they can give.

European Commission (news – web sites) President Romano Prodi also urged
people here to vote "igen" the Hungarian word for "yes" when they go to
the polls on April 12.

Prodi told a group of Hungarian mayors that they should ponder how their
communities could enrich the union when the country joins. Hungary is set
to join in May 2004, presuming that the referendum is a success.

"I'd like to ask you to tell people not only what the EU will bring to
Hungary, but what Hungary will bring to the EU," Prodi told the mayors.

"Hungary will bring poppy-seed cake and Tokaj (sweet wine), its goulash
and Palinka schnapps," Prodi said, listing some of the country's
traditional specialties. "Its architects and fashion designers will
increase Europe's allure in the world."

Prodi added that Hungary's increasingly "knowledge-based" economy placed
it in a good position to compete within the EU.

Prodi also met with Prime Minister Peter Medgyessy during his one-day
visit to Hungary.

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