Bonn - The German government yesterday dismissed criticism of its presidency of the EU attributed to the Spanish Prime Minister, Jose Maria Aznar.
The Spanish newspaper, El Pais, said Mr Aznar was concerned about the "rhythm and orientation" of current negotiations on the Agenda 2000 package of financial reforms to the 15-country bloc.
"The speed and dynamism these negotiations deserve has not really happened and as we look at where we stand now, it is starting to get a bit worrying," he was quoted as saying.