TIRANA, June 26 – The European Commission prepares proposals to grant economic benefits to European Union candidate countries before full membership, according to politico.eu. Albania is among the candidates mentioned in the plans. The initiative aims to accelerate enlargement while preserving entry standards. Governments seek faster progress in the process.
Meanwhile, the Commission frames the initiative under its “gradual integration” strategy. Candidate countries would gain wider access to the European Union during ongoing reforms. Two officials confirmed the details anonymously. The proposals cover European Union funding programmes, preferential trade arrangements and partial access to the single market. Reform progress determines access levels.
At the same time, the Commission aims to keep candidate countries engaged in enlargement. It also supports continued reforms. Full membership remains years away.
However, the proposal differs from earlier “reverse enlargement” ideas. Member states rejected those plans. France and Germany previously backed “light membership” concepts, but the debate now shifts toward an economic model.
As a result, the Commission plans consultations with European Union capitals. Leaders expect discussion at a European Council meeting in October or December. Access follows a case-by-case system. It depends on regulatory alignment and reform implementation. This marks a shift from the current system, where most benefits remain for full members.
Governments support faster enlargement linked to Russia’s war in Ukraine. They remain cautious about early access for unprepared candidates. At the same time, the Commission prepares safeguards to maintain control and reassure member states.
The model also includes Ukraine and Moldova. Ukraine’s accession will take several years despite political support. Moldova already benefits from European Union schemes, including payment systems, roaming arrangements and cultural programmes.
European Commissioner Marta Kos said member states must decide how to move the debate forward. Meanwhile, momentum for reform remains limited. Leaders agreed in Montenegro that enlargement should accelerate, but follow-up talks have stalled.
The European Union has nine candidate countries. Montenegro and Albania lead the process. Ukraine and Moldova are in negotiations. Serbia, Turkey and Georgia remain at different stages.
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