Von der Leyen backs full EU membership path for Kosovo
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has ruled out an “associate membership” model for Kosovo, saying the country should pursue full European Union membership.
Speaking alongside Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti in Pristina on Thursday, during her tour of the Western Balkans, von der Leyen said EU treaties allow European countries to apply for membership.
She contrasted Kosovo’s position with Canada, which she said could not seek full EU membership because it is not a European country.
“For Kosovo, it’s different,” von der Leyen said, adding that as a European country, Kosovo can become a member of the EU.
Von der Leyen said she “believe[s] in a European future for Kosovo,” while stressing the need for faster reforms and fully functioning state institutions.
She said institutional stability was essential for advancing reforms, supporting economic growth and making progress toward EU membership.
Her comments followed a proposal in September for Canada to pursue an “associate member” relationship with the EU as part of efforts to deepen ties between Ottawa and the bloc.
Source:AA
