Scholz to Belgrade and Pristina: Your future in the EU – only the implementation of the agreement leads there

The European Union is only complete with the Western Balkans, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said today while opening the Berlin Process Summit. He specifically addressed Belgrade and Pristina, emphasizing that their future lies in the EU and that there is only one path to get there – through the implementation of the agreements already reached.

"The European Union is only complete with the Western Balkans as part of it, and the countries of this region should take further steps toward a shared future," Scholz stated.

He pointed out that everyone knows how much the Western Balkans region is still shaped by conflicts from the past, but said that it is time to overcome these conflicts and turn toward the future.

"That is why I want to send a message to our friends from Belgrade and Pristina – do not allow the past to pull you back from the path toward a peaceful and prosperous future. I remain convinced that this future lies in the EU, and there is only one way to get there – by fully implementing the agreements you have already reached. We are committed to resolving bilateral issues in a spirit of cooperation and through peaceful means. This is what the Berlin Process stands for," Scholz stated.

He praised the unblocking of the CEFTA free trade agreement, as it, according to him, enables the activation of several other agreements, such as those related to work permits and e-commerce routes.

"The unblocking of the CEFTA agreement is not the only decision we are making today. We will also sign two documents that will make everyday life easier for people. A new action plan for a common regional market, a fundamental document for further deepening economic integration. Including social and labor aspects of cooperation and mobility, this will make cross-border work less complicated and significantly bring you closer to EU standards," Scholz said.