TIRANA, June 5 – Germany and France are expected to present a new initiative to accelerate European Union accession for Western Balkan countries and Moldova. The plan aims to offer greater integration benefits before full membership.
Meanwhile, a joint document states that candidate countries would receive rewards for meeting accession criteria. These rewards include improved access to the EU single market. They also include the possibility to send observers to European institutions. In addition, the initiative aims to strengthen reform incentives. It also seeks to add momentum to EU enlargement policy.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is expected to present the plan at the EU–Western Balkans Summit in Tivat. The proposal covers Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosova, Montenegro, North Macedonia and Serbia. It also includes Moldova.
At the same time, most Western Balkan countries have waited years for EU membership. North Macedonia has pursued this goal for 22 years. Kosova still lacks official candidate status. Five EU member states do not recognise its independence. Meanwhile, Montenegro remains the most advanced candidate. It aims to complete accession negotiations next year. It also targets possible membership by 2030.
A separate EU–Moldova summit is scheduled for 22 June in Brussels.
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