MEP Andrey Kovatchev emphasises that the EU must remain committed to enlargement, while the countries of the region must stay focused on reforms and European values. Despite the complex political circumstances within the European Union and the region itself, EU enlargement to the Western Balkans remains a strategic priority for European institutions.
In an interview with the EUpravo Zato portal, MEP Andrey Kovatchev (EPP) stated that the European Parliament continues to strongly support the integration process, stressing the importance of reforms and political will in candidate countries.
“The majority in the European Parliament wants to continue the enlargement process so as not to disappoint the people of the Western Balkans, and to encourage ruling parties in those countries to do much more in implementing reforms, because enlargement is a two-way street. The European Union must be ready to accept those countries as full members, and they must meet all the criteria, as enlargement is based on merit,” Kovatchev told our portal.
The European Parliament recently adopted reports on the progress of Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and North Macedonia, which, according to the MEP, clearly show political will to strengthen reform momentum. Serbia holds a special place in his analysis, as he says the country plays a key role in the region.
“I would say that Serbia is the most important country in the Western Balkans and that it has a great influence on other countries. That is why we will be closely monitoring developments there and we wish the citizens of Serbia much success on their path towards democracy and European integration, because I firmly believe that all problems from the past can be overcome through European integration,” he explained.
As a positive example, Kovatchev cited the historic reconciliation between Germany and France, as well as the improvement of relations between Bulgaria and Greece.
“We know our history, but we must not repeat it. We must overcome hate speech and discrimination and not allow nationalist forces to exploit people's emotions,” Kovatchev said, calling for a united European path for the Western Balkans.
(EUpravo zato)
