EU flags (PHOTO: EUROPEAN UNION/Zucchi Enzo)
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said on Aug. 25 that Croatia should be the European Union’s key member state in integrating the Western Balkans into the EU, so that the stagnant process could move forward.
"Croatia knows exactly what the chances and challenges are. That is why I hope Croatia will be given an active role in the Western Balkans’ accession," the German minister said before traveling to the Croatian capital.
Wadephul has noted that Croatia stands to gain the most from the accession of its regional neighbors, but also suffers the most from delaying it.
A united and open Europe is not only a promise of prosperity and security, but also "a fortress against authoritarian pressures and a guarantee of stability on our continent," the German official said, adding that candidates had to be offered a clear path to the EU based on the rule of law, fundamental rights, and reforms.
"Where that prospect is missing, authoritarian forces can try to gain influence based on misinformation, corruption, and violence. They aim to turn people against our European project and create new dependencies," Minister Wadephul has warned.
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