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Von der Leyen: The future of the Western Balkans and Ukraine is in the EU

2023-09-13 12:02:00, Kosova & Bota CNA

Von der Leyen: The future of the Western Balkans and Ukraine is in the EU

In her State of the European Union speech, Von der Leyen backed the idea of ??expanding the EU by at least 30 members, saying enlargement could be a "catalyst for progress" in the bloc.

 "We have proven that we can be a geopolitical union and we have shown that we can move fast when we are united. The future of Ukraine, Moldova and the Western Balkans is in the EU. We must define a vision for a successful enlargement" , said the President of the European Commission, Ursula Von der Leyen.

Von der Leyen warned that EU accession was "merit-based", in other words, conditional on far-reaching reforms in candidate countries, and that the Commission would "always defend this principle".

"The rule of law and respect for fundamental rights are and will always be the foundation of our Union, current and future member states. We now work closely with Member States to identify progress and concerns and make recommendations for the coming year. This has ensured accountability before this House and national parliaments. It has allowed dialogue between member states and is producing results. I believe it can do the same for future member states. That is why I am very happy to announce that we will open the Rule of Law Reports to those member countries that will accelerate even faster. This will put them on an equal footing with the Member States. Support them in their reform efforts," Von der Leyen said.

She mentioned that the major expansion was "European Welcome Day", adding that it was a triumph of determination and hope over the burden of the past.

"And in the 20 years since, we've seen an economic success story that has improved the lives of millions of people. I want us to look forward to the next European Welcome Day and the next economic success stories. We know that this is not an easy path", concluded the President of the European Commission.

 

 





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