On December 5, 2024, in Brussels, EU Commissioner for Enlargement, Marta Kos, expressed her vision for the complete integration of the Western Balkans into the European Union. She emphasized that enlargement is not merely a technical process but a means of uniting Europe.
During the EU-Western Balkans meeting hosted by the organization 'Friends of Europe,' Kos stated that there is a realistic prospect that one or more EU membership candidates will reach the 'finish line' during the current commission's mandate.
Kos described her mission as ensuring that bilateral disputes do not hinder the region's common future. She remarked, 'My dream is for the entire Western Balkans to be integrated into this Union, and to see borders and bilateral conflicts disappear, just as they have in many other parts of our continent.'
She highlighted her commitment to advocate for future member states, emphasizing that EU enlargement is merit-based, grounded in democracy and the rule of law. Kos pledged to dedicate her experience and energy to expedite and enhance the enlargement process.
Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has tasked each member to actively support candidate countries. Kos noted that this unity in Brussels aims to build a stronger Europe.
She also acknowledged the need for intensive societal efforts in accession negotiations and expressed her intent to meet with civil society representatives during her visits to the Western Balkans.
Kos reiterated that the question is not just what the EU can offer to candidate countries, but also what those countries can contribute to a stronger and safer Europe. She recently conveyed this message to leaders in Kyiv and the Western Balkans.
Gert Jan Koopman, Director General for Enlargement and Neighborhood Policy at the European Commission, remarked that enlargement efforts are revitalizing with new tools, including the Economic Growth Plan for the Western Balkans. He expressed hope for three intergovernmental conferences to take place this month, including the closure of four chapters with Montenegro.