The World - News from July 18, 1989

Austria formally applied to join the European Community, saying its neutrality is no obstacle to political and economic union. Foreign Affairs Minister Alois Mock handed the letter of application in Brussels to France’s Roland Dumas, who currently chairs community ministerial meetings. The 12 community foreign ministers discussed Austria’s application, aware that it raises fundamental questions about the future size and direction of the bloc. Diplomats said many regard it as confirmation of the increased international profile of the community as it prepares to become a giant single market by the end of 1992.