Franco-German statement on result of Irish referendum

We take formal note of the Irish citizens’ democratic decision with all the respect due to it, even though we regret it.

The Irish Prime Minister has informed us today of the referendum result and will give his analysis of the reasons for the vote at the European Council of 19-20 June. It will be for the European Council to draw the appropriate conclusions.

The Lisbon Treaty was signed by the Heads of State and Government of the 27 Member States and the ratification procedure has already been completed in 18 countries. We therefore hope that the other Member States will pursue the ratification process.

We are convinced that the reforms contained in the Lisbon Treaty are necessary to make Europe more democratic and more effective and that they will enable it to address the challenges confronting its citizens./.

Paris, 13 June 2008