Tirana, May 17, 2011 NOA – EU Commission President José Manuel Barroso, accompanied by Commissioner for Enlargement and European Neighbourhood Policy Štefan Füle, will travel to Serbia, Kosovo and Albania from 19-20 May in the second leg of his visit to South Eastern Europe.
He will hold meetings with the political leaders of the respective countries as well as civil society representatives to stress the Commission’s support to their European perspective and to encourage further necessary reforms, stable and fully functioning democratic institutions and good neighbourly relations all of which are indispensable for progress on the road towards the EU.
"The countries of South Eastern Europe belong in the European Union. Enlargement remains a powerful tool for deepening democracy, the rule of law, security and prosperity in Europe", said President Barroso.
"But it is the leaders and people of the region who hold the key to the pace and the timing of their own European future. I will therefore encourage our partners to speed up their reforms and tackle the outstanding challenges and conditions with renewed vigour.
Our firm commitment to the European path of these countries and their continued engagement in delivering reforms are critical to success."
Comissioner Füle said: "2011 is a year of opportunities for the enlargement policy and for the whole Western Balkans. A lot can be done if our partners live up to the expectations of their citizens and deliver on reforms.
The accession process is not an easy one but a credible one: aspirant members deliver on reforms and the EU delivers on their progress. Our joint roadmap is very clear: for each country, it is set out in our 2010 Progress Report or Opinion.
The European Commission is here to guide and help. Our parters can count on us. Together with President Barroso, we will deliver these messages to our partners and the citizens."
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