Austria and Germany are increasing pressure on countries that have been waiting a long time to join the EU.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz made it clear during the summit in Albania on Monday that there was no more time to lose. He pointed out that the EU had promised the countries of the Western Balkans an accession perspective in 2003. For him it is ‘very, very clear’ that after twenty years it ‘has to happen quickly’.
Frustration among model students in North Macedonia
A country that has achieved a lot on its way to the EU is North Macedonia. Considered a model student, the state has even changed its name and extensive reforms have also been implemented. Candidate status has existed since 2005, but now frustration and fatigue are spreading.
Austrian Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg again urged partial integration. This would mean that the countries would not become members of the EU overnight, but would certainly be part of it at certain points. In view of the renewed tensions between Serbia and Kosovo, Schallenberg also emphasizes the importance of the countries of the Western Balkans putting old conflicts behind them. “The more integrated and networked the Balkans are, the easier it will be to join. Because no compromises are possible given the high hurdles,” the minister said.
Source: Krone
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