Scholz confirms: – “Europe will not be complete until the Western Balkans”

After the Russian attack on Ukraine, integration became even more important, Scholz made clear in Berlin at the start of a summit with the Balkan states of Albania, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Montenegro and Serbia.

The German Chancellor continued: “The six states of the Western Balkans belong to the free and democratic part of Europe.” The prosperity and stability of this region cannot be separated from the rest of Europe.

Agreement as the first step
It is envisaged that the countries of the Western Balkans will sign agreements on mutual recognition of identity cards and university and professional qualifications, which have been negotiated for two years. It must also be about the energy crisis and about reform and better networking of the energy sectors. In return, Germany and the EU stand ready to pledge support.

Austria supports EU enlargement
The heads of the European Union and the heads of government of several EU countries will also participate in the summit. Austria is represented by Minister of Integration Susanne Raab (ÖVP). Austria is a strong supporter of EU enlargement to the Western Balkans and was pleased when the European Commission recommended candidate country status for Bosnia and Herzegovina in mid-October.

Scholz called for an intensification of efforts to integrate the Balkans into the EU, which began 20 years ago. “Our job is to deliver on these promises,” said the German chancellor. The agreements would be entered into in a climate of heightened urgency.

“Russia’s brutal war of aggression against Ukraine forces us to stand together and safely defend Europe’s freedom,” Scholz said. He called for the resolution of regional conflicts. The Western Balkans can count on Germany’s support. All six countries aim to join the EU, but are at different stages in moving closer to the EU.