Issue date: 12 Jan, 2005
Once again Europe forms part of the stamp collection with a stamp dedicated to the European Constitution, otherwise known as the Constitutional Treaty, a document which must still be ratified by the 25 member states of the European Union before it enters into force. The formation of a united Europe, which is growing stronger and more solid, is incumbent on all of its citizens, and will happen upon the establishment of a common Constitution which will control the governing regulations. This text, or Constitutional Treaty, which was signed in Rome on October 29, 2004 by the Heads of State or Government of the member states of the European Union, must be ratified by each country according to its constitutional regulations; that is, through parliamentary approval and/or referendum at which time the citizens of Europe will be able to freely express their acceptance or rejection of the Constitutional text by exercising their right to vote. The European Constitution will enter into force on November 1, 2006, assuming that the instruments for ratification have been deposited by this date. The text is structured in four parts, two appendices and 36 protocols, 28 of which are already included in the current treaties of the European Community and of the European Union; the eight remaining parts have been newly created. This important document demonstrates great advancement in the creation of European political unity, founded on the basic principles of peace, social and territorial unity, cooperation among the people, defence of human rights and international law. It also means the strengthening of the democratic and social structure of all of the member states and an important step towards economic development for their close to 500 million citizens. The stamp reproduces a free design about the title of the European Constitution, written in the official languages of our country.
Rate A - €0.75. For a “standard” letter or postcard within Spain, up to 20 g.
Rate A2 - €0.85. For a “standard” letter or postcard within Spain, between 20 g and 50 g.
Rate B - €1.65. For a “standard” Ordinary International letter or postcard addressed to Europe (including Greenland), up to 20 g.
Rate C - €1.75. For a “standard” Ordinary International letter or postcard addressed to the rest of the world (except USA, Canada, Japan, Australia and New Zealand), up to 20 g.
Rate D - €2.10. For a “standard” Ordinary International letter or postcard addressed to the USA, Canada, Japan, Australia and New Zealand, up to 20 g.