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Parliamentary question - E-000324/2020(ASW)Parliamentary question
E-000324/2020(ASW)

Answer given by Mr Várhelyi on behalf of the European Commission

The European Union enlargement is a geo-strategic investment in a stable, strong and united Europe and th e merit-based prospect of full EU membership for the western Balkans is in the European Union's very own political, security and economic interest.

In line with this priority, the Commission is working on three tracks in 2020:

Firstly, on 5 February, the Commission adopted the communication Enhancing the accession process — A credible EU perspective for the western Balkans[1], that aims to drive forward the EU accession process by making it more credible, with a stronger political steer, more dynamic and predictable.

Secondly, and in parallel, the Commission stands firmly by its recommendations to open accession negotiations with North Macedonia and Albania. As confirmed in the reports of 2 March[2], the two countries delivered further tangible and sustainable results and fulfilled the conditions for the opening of accession talks.

Thirdly, in preparation of the EU-Western Balkans Summit in Zagreb in May, the Commission intends to come forward with a plan to bring forward investment, socio‐economic integration and the rule of law for the western Balkans region.

Supporting the western Balkans in meeting the requirements for EU membership is a priority for the Commission. The Commission is working to improve the tools at its disposal to support and encourage the reform process. Credibility lies at the heart of the enlargement process.

The Commission’s Communication recognises that the accession process needs to build on trust, mutual confidence and clear commitments by the European Union and the western Balkans. To progress on the EU path, candidate countries need to make progress in meeting the requirements of membership, implementing reforms and delivering concrete results.

Last updated: 25 March 2020
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