“You have to decide which side you are on – the side of democracy, which is the European Union, your friend and partner. Or do you want to take a different path?”, the German politician said at a summit of the EU and the European Union on Tuesday. Western Balkans in Tirana, Albania. Russia and China are trying to exert influence in the region, but the EU is the largest investor and closest partner for the Western Balkans.
As a result of the Russian war against Ukraine since late February, the question arises whether autocracies and the law of the strongest will prevail or democracy and the rule of law, according to von der Leyen. “You also see this struggle in the Western Balkans.” In addition to the heads of state or government of the 27 EU countries, their counterparts from Serbia, Albania, North Macedonia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Montenegro and Kosovo will participate in the summit. All six countries are seeking to join the EU.
In particular, Serbia has not yet joined the EU sanctions against Russia. Belgrade continues to maintain relatively close ties with the Moscow government. Charles Michel, President of the Council of the EU, stressed the importance of progress in countries’ accession efforts. “I am absolutely convinced that the future of our children with the Western Balkans in the EU will be safer and more prosperous,” said the Belgian.
(SDA)