Merkel's pullout is expected to change German stance against Kosovo and the Balkans, analysts say

Not only for the EU, even for many politicians in Western Balkan countries Chancellor Angela Merkel was leaders and mentors for their policies and great supporters in the EU integration process. Since Chancellor Merkel's statement that she will not run again for the post of party chairman in the CDU, an almost extraordinary situation and uncertainty was created in Europe. This uncertainty was reflected throughout the EU, but also in the Western Balkans.

Officials, analysts and citizens from the region in recent days discuss possible consequences, following the withdrawal of the image, which has personally supported and committed itself to the integration of the Western Balkans into the EU.

“Kancerajala Merkel has not left the Chancellor's position, but has just announced she will leave the post of CDU chairman. This means that as long as the Chancellor is, I don't expect there to be any major changes in German politics to Southeast Europe and the EU's policy of enlargement “, German Institute for International Affairs and Security office director Dusan Reljic tells DW.

Analysts from Brussels who deal with the issue of enlargement in general and EU policy towards the Western Balkans agree with that assessment, that this German Chancellor's move will not change Germany's policy of integration of the region. “There is a long-term continuation in German politics towards Southeast Europe, which has been achieved mainly through the enlargement policy in Brussels and through NATO. It is the only policy represented in the international context and there can be no quick changes in this direction”, Relijic explains for the DW.

German Marshall Fund says Germany's policy towards the Western Balkans is linked to stability and the economy and that this interest “will not change despite leadership in Berlin”. Germany led by Angela Merkel began the process and then the “Berlin Plus” plan, in order to strengthen the region economically by creating opportunities for co-operation between Balkan states and strengthening ties with the EU. “Angela Merkel has personally led the EU enlargement policy at the time when the European Commission gave up the leadership of this” process, explains Rosa Balfour of the German Marshall Fund.