Kos: Montenegro could complete negotiations by the end of next year, but - enlargement is now a geopolitical issue, not a technical process

AUTHOR:M.J. GDNUS

The enlargement of the European Union (EU) is now a geopolitical issue, no longer just a technical process, assessed European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos, saying that Montenegro could complete negotiations by the end of 2026.

Kos said in an interview with Radio 1 of Radio Television of Slovenia that this is the first time negotiations are being held with a country at war, Ukraine, and external forces are trying to hinder the enlargement process.

She assessed that the EU must also respond to issues of security, defense and global stability today.

Kos believes that Serbia is stagnating on its European path, and that the protests show that the people want change.

"The conversation with Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić was difficult, but necessary - focused on electoral and media reform," said Kos.

She pointed out that Vučić promised to fulfill his obligations, but that the EU is waiting for concrete steps.

Kos stressed that she has no one else to negotiate with in Serbia right now except Vučić.

Speaking about the criticism over the tweet and public perception, Kos admitted that 280 characters cannot capture the complexity of the talks.

She stressed the importance of better communication and support for civil society and announced an additional €16 million in aid for NGOs in Serbia.

Kos said that the EU stands with the people of Serbia, not with any specific regime.

"Serbia can become an EU member when it strengthens the rule of law, media freedom and the fight against corruption," Kos added.

She pointed to the problem of "stabilocracy" and the danger of apathy among citizens.

According to her, a different approach is needed for Kosovo, Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) and Georgia - more determination and a clearer strategy.

Kos said that BiH has potential, but is trapped in ethnically based decision-making.

She estimated that Albania could reach the finish line by the end of 2027.

"It is crucial how member states ultimately vote on accession," Kos said.

She said that the EU must remain an area of ​​the rule of law, freedom and human rights.

"The Commissioner's task is to build trust with both governments and citizens."

Kos concluded that the EU, despite crises, knows how to find solutions and that is why hope remains for many.