European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker said that the European perspective for the Western Balkans should be kept open.
At a press conference held jointly with Bulgarian Prime Minister Boyko Borisov, Juncker said that they discussed Bulgarian EU Presidency and its decision to put Union enlargement to the Western Balkans at the top of its priorities.
European Commission President said that they talked about the politics in “the complex region” where Bulgaria played a central role, adding that the idea of keeping European perspective open to the Western Balkans should be supported.
“I want to reiterate my conviction that it is necessary to keep the EU perspective open for the Western Balkans. At this moment it seems that it is not possible to receive new members in 2019, but I want the European perspective to be seen not as an invitation but as a continuous need in this part of Europe,” Juncker said.
Asked to comment on the announced accession strategy for Serbia and Montenegro, Juncker replied: “I did not mention in my speech Serbia and Montenegro; they are mentioned in the Working Programme of the Commission. Pay attention to nuances. I do think that the two countries – those you are mentioning – will be members of the European Union before 2025,“ Juncker said.
Borisov said that there was an opportunity to bring the Western Balkan on board as the UK withdraws from the EU.
“I think it is important and it is possible for us to have a decision taken on that perspective,” Borisov said, adding that without taking risks there can never be progress.
Borisov said that Sofia would host an EU summit next May attended by six Western Balkans leaders, whereas in early January the Commission would pay a visit to Bulgaria. He went on to describe this as “an opportunity not only for Bulgaria, but the entire region to portray itself in a good light.”
Juncker welcomed the motto of the Bulgarian Presidency – “United We Stand Strong” – and added that Bulgaria would be the capital of Europe for the next coming six months.
“And it is a unique chance for this marvellous country to show, to prove, to demonstrate that Bulgarians know what is what when it comes to Europe because Europe makes part of the DNA of Bulgaria.”
He said that he and Prime Minister discussed a high speed railway project and added that the Commission supported the project uniting the Black Sea with the Adriatic.
Read President Juncker’s integral speech of here
