In Zagreb, European Council President Charles Michel stated that the enlargement of the European Union will enhance the safety and prosperity of the wealthy 27-bloc. Additionally, it will ensure stability and peace for the Western Balkan countries.
Recently, the EU’s executive commission recommended that Ukraine and Moldova should commence negotiations on EU membership, pending the fulfillment of certain conditions. Additionally, Bosnia and Herzegovina was also recommended for EU membership negotiations, with Georgia receiving the status of membership candidate.
It is expected that national EU leaders will make a decision in mid-December on whether to accept the Commission’s recommendation. This decision requires unanimity among the bloc’s 27 members, with Hungary being seen as a potential obstacle.
Charles Michel arrived in Zagreb for talks on the strategic agenda, including enlargement, with the premiers of Croatia, Malta, Poland, and Italy. He emphasized the need for EU member states to achieve unity on strategic matters.
In response to a question about the potential for Russia to stir up a new conflict in the Western Balkans amidst the ongoing war in Ukraine, Michel acknowledged the possibility of interference and influence from Russia. He stressed the importance of progress on the EU path for stability and peace in the region.
Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic of Croatia expressed support for the EU path of its neighbors in southeastern Europe, stating that anchoring them in European processes is crucial for peace, security, stability, and improved multilateral relations. He emphasized the EU’s aversion to another war in southeastern Europe.
Croatia’s accession to the EU in 2013 made it the bloc’s most recent member, and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has once again brought enlargement to the forefront of the EU’s agenda.
Serbia and Bosnia’s autonomous Serb Republic maintain a neutral stance regarding Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and maintain close relations with Moscow.
(Reporting by Antonio Bronic and Daria Sito-Sucic; Editing by Toby Chopra)
