CDU politician Friedrich Merz has called for the acceleration of West Balkan states’ integration into the European Union, stating that while the EU has provided support, the candidate nations must also make corresponding efforts. This statement was made on Thursday during his arrival in Montenegro to open the Berlin Process Summit.
Merz advocated for a phased integration of the Western Balkans into the EU, noting that he and French President Emmanuel Macron have presented specific and ambitious proposals, many of which have been adopted by the European Commission.
He indicated that Montenegro’s EU entry process is nearing completion. Merz remarked that the accession process has gained momentum since a meeting held in Tivat in June, emphasizing that joining the EU is achievable and worthwhile if the nations commit to working determinedly toward the goal.
At the same time, Merz urged the region’s states toward deeper cooperation and reconciliation. He warned that polarization and divisive rhetoric are destructive and do not lead to a safer, freer, or wealthier Europe. Looking at protests across the EU and the West Balkans, he stressed that violence must never be an option for any party.
Additionally, the normalization dialogue between Serbia and Kosovo urgently needs to be revitalized. Merz found it hard to understand why the lack of progress was occurring, asserting that this stagnation hinders the further EU integration of all involved parties.
The Berlin Process itself aims to reinforce regional collaboration among the six Western Balkan states and support necessary reforms during their path to EU membership. Montenegro chose this year to host the meeting, as the country celebrates 20 years of independence. Merz estimated that Montenegro is now in the final stage of its accession negotiations, and the Berlin Process is scheduled to hold 26 events this year, including twelve at the ministerial level.
