European Parliament adopted Enlargement Strategy, importance of the Belgrade–Pristina dialogue emphasized

The European Parliament in Strasbourg adopted the Enlargement Strategy, which states that the future of the Western Balkans, Ukraine, and Moldova lies in the European Union, and that progress in the dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina is a precondition for EU accession.

The European Parliament adopted the Strategy with 385 votes in favor, 147 against, and 98 abstentions.

The document, authored by European Parliament rapporteur Petras Austrevicius, states that enlargement is the European Union’s strategic response to the new geopolitical situation and an important investment in Europe’s security and stability.

It particularly emphasizes that the future of the Western Balkans, Ukraine, and Moldova lies in the European Union, in line with the aspirations of their citizens, and that the accession process is key to strengthening democracy, the rule of law, and regional stability.

The Strategy stresses that regional cooperation, especially in the Western Balkans, is a precondition for EU accession, while reconciliation and good neighborly relations are crucial for a successful enlargement process.

In the document, the European Parliament also highlights the importance of the Belgrade–Pristina dialogue, stating that it is key to progress on the European path and contributes to regional stability and prosperity.

It also states that remaining bilateral issues between the EU and countries that are not members of the Union should be resolved in accordance with international law and should not be used to block the enlargement process.

The Strategy is not legally binding.