The European Commission published the enlargement strategy with a clear message to the Western Balkan countries. The current assessment is positive, but each of the aspirant countries must fight corruption, organized crime, strengthen democracy, and make far-reaching reforms to the rule of law. No one will be integrated without meeting the standards and no earlier than 2025.
“We appreciate the achievements for each country. There is development in financial exchanges between countries. For the strategy we have no deadlines, but 2025 is a limit for membership. Reforms are needed in order for countries to meet the standards for the lives of their citizens in the same way as in European countries. The strategy is preparation for enlargement; we expect progress from Western Balkan countries. The first six months a turning point for them to be remembered”.
Relations between the Western Balkan countries are another condition for integration.
“This strategy is a great opportunity for the region to join Europe. The strategy encourages these countries to a European perspective. It is important that all conditions are fulfilled, as the EU will not accept any country that has unresolved problems, conflicts. The assessment strategy for Kosovo to follow the path of dialogue with Serbia, and this is not only in Serbia’s interest. We are not smoothing the conditions, but it is a positive pressure”
, Hahn said.
The strategy might be hampered by corruption and organized crime, including links to organized crime and corruption at all levels of government and administration, as well as a strong mix of interests public and private ones.
The strategy also speaks of a growing commitment of the European Union itself to further support the countries of the region in their membership path./tvklan.al
