The “window of opportunity” for future EU enlargement is open, so action needs to start now, says Charles Michel.
The EU needs reforms to prepare for further expansion of the bloc in 2030. The President of the European Council Charles Michel said this in Slovenia at the Bled Strategic Forum international security conference, Ukrinform reported on Monday, August 28.
“We must set clear goals for ourselves. I am convinced that we must be ready – on both sides – for the enlargement until 2030. This means that the next multi-year EU budget will require the inclusion of our common goals. It is ambitious, but necessary,” – he said.
According to Michel, the European Union should strengthen its positions and become more powerful.
“That is why now is the time to overcome the challenge of enlargement. Both for us in the EU and for our future members. I am convinced that this is what we must call the countries that have received confirmation of their prospects in the EU – future member states,” stressed the head of the European Council.
He noted that the “window of opportunity” for the future enlargement of the EU is open, and it is necessary to start acting now.
“That is why EU leaders will discuss enlargement at our next meeting of the European Council. We will take a position on opening negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova. I expect Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as Georgia , will return to the table (of negotiations , – ed.),” added Michel.
He emphasized that the war in Europe, which is taking place on the land of Ukraine, has once again shown that peace and democracy cannot be taken for granted.
“Today, as we say, Ukraine heroically defends its country. The Kremlin is not only attacking a free and sovereign neighbor. The Kremlin is attacking everything we believe in – freedom, democracy, prosperity and cooperation. In June, we gave of candidate status in Ukraine and for Moldova. The same status awaits Georgia when they (Georgians, – ed.) complete the necessary steps. So now the future expansion is not a dream. It’s time to move forward,” Charles Michel summed up.
Earlier it became known that Ukraine has the opportunity to start negotiations on joining the European Union in the winter. But for this, Ukraine and the EU still have a lot to do.
Source: korrespondent
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