Metsola: Western Balkans belong to EU, Kosovo, Serbia to resolve open issues

The Western Balkans belong to the European Union. It is a winning formula for both the EU and the region. The road towards EU membership is a powerful tool for reform, for changes ensuring democracy, security and prosperity,” wrote Mecola on Twitter.

In a video message she recalled that Western Balkan countries called for speeding up the membership process.

You heard it loud and clear. This is taking too long, but things are still moving forward. The world is changing and the EU is changing with it. Among the recent achievements is the adoption of candidate status for Bosnia and Herzegovina, and that Kosovo citizens will no longer have to apply for visas to travel to the Schengen area, but the Western Balkans must continue to adhere to membership criteria and take decisive steps towards resolving open bilateral issues. Co-operation among Western Balkan countries is key. Connecting through infrastructure, technology, digitalisation, all of this will create more security”, Mecola said.

She added that the prospect of EU membership serves as a strong incentive to advance reforms that are key to improving governance, rule of law and promoting media freedom.

On the road to European integration and reform, let me tell you that the European Parliament stands next to those who want to join our major European peace and prosperity project,” said Mecola.