The EU’s General Affairs Council (GAC) reaffirmed its commitment to enlargement, emphasizing the strategic importance of EU membership for the Western Balkans, Ukraine, and Moldova. Montenegro remains the most advanced candidate, with Member States ready to begin “in due time” preparations for the accession treaty of the country. The Council urged Serbia to show strong political will, implement EU-related reforms, and communicate objectively and unambiguously on the EU, while calling on Albania to strengthen fundamental and minority rights amid concerns over stalled progress on media freedom. North Macedonia was pressed to finalize constitutional changes to proceed with its next intergovernmental conference, and Bosnia and Herzegovina faced criticism for stalled reforms and was urged to appoint key officials under IPA III and adopt an EU acquis program. Kosovo was criticized for uncoordinated actions affecting Kosovo Serbs, with the Council urging Kosovo and Serbia to ensure safety and participatory democracy. The Council emphasized the need to close reform gaps and promote transparency and the rule of law across the region. Read more here.
Source: European Western Balkans