Varhelyi Calls for Integration of Western Balkan Countries

At a plenary session of the European Parliament in Strasbourg, Enlargement Commissioner Oliver Varhelyi stated that in order to preserve its credibility, the EU had to accelerate integration of Western Balkan countries, adding that the process should be much more dynamic. He also stated that the EU had to start negotiations with Albania and Macedonia because the two countries had met the conditions. In the Commissioner’s view, enlargement with the Western Balkans can be successful only if the EU delivers on its promises, which requires a quicker and more dynamic process. As Varhelyi added, during the long preparations and the negotiations process, much stronger political control will be needed, with maximum participation of Member States. In his view, the risk if that doesn’t happen is forces that could harm the negotiations process being strengthened.