Merz Calls for EU Readiness on Western Balkan Expansion
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated that the European Union must demonstrate its capability and willingness to admit new members during a summit in Montenegro. While Montenegro is seen as a frontrunner for accession, Merz noted that the bloc has not admitted any new members in thirteen years.
Germany Chancellor Friedrich Merz urged the EU to accelerate enlargement to include six Western Balkan nations during a summit in Montenegro on June 5. The bloc has not admitted a new member for 13 years, leaving candidate nations including Kosovo in a long accession queue. Rapid expansion would anchor these nations in the European market to reduce the influence of rival foreign powers.
Merz told reporters in Tivat morning that the EU must demonstrate it is both willing and capable of taking in new members. Merz noted that the lack of new admissions since 2013 highlights internal shortcomings within the EU.
