Brussels, 16/12/2014 (Agence Europe) - The conclusions on enlargement and the stabilisation and association process that European affairs ministers adopted on 16 December brought littler news with regard to the enlargement countries. While, later in the day, Montenegro was to open four accession negotiations chapters, for the other countries (Serbia, Albania, the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia - FYROM - and Kosovo) it was a matter of as-you-were.
Montenegro. The Council hailed the progress made by Montenegro in accession talks. Progress has been made but greater effort is required in the areas of the judiciary and fundamental rights, including freedom of expression and of the media, constructive political dialogue between all parties in parliament, reform of public administration and economic reform. “Montenegro is now entering a phase when strong political commitment is required in order to deliver further tangible and lasting results”, the ministers make clear.
FYROM. Yet again, the Council notes the Commission recommendation that accession talks be opened, “with a view to a possible decision of the European Council to open” these negotiations. It will “revert to the issue anytime in 2015, on the basis of an update by the Commission on implementation of reforms … and on tangible steps taken to promote good neighbourly relations and to reach a negotiated and mutually accepted solution to the name issue”. Ministers underline, too, the need for more “constructive and inclusive” political dialogue and call on the country to take steps on the increasing politicisation of state institutions and growing shortcomings with regard to the independence of the judiciary and media freedoms.
Albania. The Council calls on Albania to step up efforts to meet the priorities for the opening of accession negotiations. Albania must also pursue economic reforms, say the ministers, adding that “constructive and sustainable dialogue between the government and the opposition on EU-related reforms will be vital for progress towards the EU”.
Serbia. In its conclusions, the Council “looks forward to the next meeting of the Accession Conference and to the opening of the first negotiating chapters with Serbia”, without setting any date, however. Italian minister Sandro Gozi, said he was confident that this could take place “soon early next year”. While hailing the country's progress, ministers encourage Serbia to further intensify its reform process. “Serbia needs to maintain an active and constructive engagement in the normalisation process with Kosovo, which has seen significant progress”, they say. Ministers also call on Serbia to progressively align with EU common foreign and security policy, “notably on issues where major common interests are at stake, such as on Russia and Ukraine”.
Kosovo. The Council takes note of the Commission's intention to issue proposals for the signature and conclusion of a stabilisation and association agreement as soon as possible. It calls on the new Kosovar authorities quickly to implement of the reforms necessary on the rule of law and to engage in the high-level dialogue with Serbia. Kosovo should continue to cooperate closely and effectively with the EU civilian EULEX mission.
Bosnia. The Council welcomed the renewed EU approach adopted on 15 December. (CG)