EU gives ‘green light’ to start membership talks with North Macedonia and Albania

·

The European Union can start membership negotiations with Albania and North Macedonia, according to a draft decision by the bloc’s 27 member states seen by Reuters on Monday and due to be finalised this week.

If approved as expected, the agreement would end two years of delays and signal new momentum for all six Western Balkan countries – Serbia, Kosovo, Montenegro, Albania, Bosnia and North Macedonia – seeking to join the EU.

North Macedonia and Albania had seen their hopes dashed last year as France and the Netherlands sounded scepticism over their track records on democracy and fighting corruption, fearful of allowing new members in at a time when the EU’s cohesion was already damaged by Britain’s departure from the bloc.

But Paris and The Hague eased their objections last month and the plans to allow talks to start have gained momentum despite the coronavirus crisis, with Brussels eager to show its determination to bring the Balkans into the EU fold.

“I don’t think what is happening (with coronavirus) is going to alter the decision of the member states,” EU Foreign Policy Chief, Josep Borrell, told the media on Friday.

EU Foreign Policy Chief, Josep Borrell, said the decision will not be delayed due to the coronavirus outbreak. Source: Al Jazeera.

Borrell said he also telephoned Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic to reassure him of the EU’s support, after Vucic praised China for its help in fighting coronavirus in Serbia.

Greece was still not on board before the weekend with the decision, which requires unanimity of all EU members. But diplomatic sources said Athens has given its approval after the latest draft included stronger language on protecting Greek and other national minorities in Albania.

If no country objects, the decision is expected to be formally adopted by the 27 EU members’ Europe ministers at mid-week, the sources added.

“It’s a testing time for Europe. The EU needs to show that it maintains its capacity to act amidst the coronavirus crisis. That’s also why we were able to find an agreement on enlargement now. It proves that the EU is still working and delivering,” a senior EU diplomat told Reuters on Monday.

EU and Balkan leaders are due to hold a summit in Zagreb in May in a show of support for the six countries of the region.

Source: Reuters.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

Meet the Greek sisters behind Adora: A 30-year legacy of handmade chocolate and heart

If you’re looking for a new spot in Sydney to satisfy your sweet cravings, Adora Handmade Chocolates is the place to be.

Young artists shine in ‘First Light’ exhibition at opening of That Art Place in Carlton

More than 65 young artists from the St George area in Sydney had their creative moment in the spotlight on Saturday, July 12.

Peter Tsolakides leads Australia’s first cryonics facility amid scientific doubts

Peter Tsolakides, founder of Southern Cryonics, is leading Australia's venture into cryonic preservation with a facility near Holbrook, NSW.

Kazzi Beach Greek owner Peter Papas criticises proposed RBA surcharge ban

Sydney restaurateur Peter Papas has raised concerns over the Reserve Bank of Australia’s proposal to ban credit and debit card surcharges.

Change of date for Greek Fest at Brighton-Le-Sands due to unforeseen circumstances

The Greek Orthodox Community of NSW has today advised of an important date change for the highly anticipated Greek Fest @ Brighton-Le-Sands.

You May Also Like

MTV cuts ties with Alex Kompothecras after racist comments

MTV has ended its relationship with reality television star Alex Kompothecras over offensive comments he allegedly made on social media.

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison tests positive for COVID-19

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison has tested positive to COVID-19 and is experiencing "flu-like symptoms."

NSW police officer, James Delinicolis, charged with sexual assault, production of child abuse material

NSW Police officers, James Delinicolis and Angelo Dellosa, were behind bars last night amid allegations they ‘filmed sex with a 17-year-old girl.’