Now Kosovo wants to make it official: on Wednesday, the Balkan country submitted a formal application for membership of the European Union. The application will be handed over to the Czech Presidency of the Council on Thursday.
“This is the beginning of a new chapter,” said Prime Minister Albin Kurti (47). “Progress will depend on our commitment to deep and transformative reforms that strengthen our democracy and economy.” Kosovo’s accession process is likely to be long and difficult, not least because of tensions with Serbia.
It is therefore not surprising that Serbia is now sounding the alarm. The country, which still regards Kosovo as part of Serbia, promptly called on the EU to halt the accession process. Belgrade said that the five EU states that do not recognize Kosovo and Hungary will be asked to block the initiative in Brussels. The five countries mentioned are Greece, Spain, Romania, Slovakia and Cyprus. (treasure)