Brussels: The European Council's agenda concerning enlargement was a focal point for the EU27 leaders at Thursday's meeting, with sources briefing the press in Brussels highlighting that the Republic of Cyprus views the absence of Council conclusions on enlargement as the wrong political message at a crucial geopolitical time.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU is set to operate based on the statement from the Danish Presidency of the General Affairs Council, discussed earlier this week, aiming to ensure continuity, political clarity, and institutional consistency.
The topic of enlargement, particularly concerning the Western Balkans, remains sensitive. Sources emphasize the need for the EU to prevent a vacuum of influence that could be exploited by third parties. They urge the EU27 to transition from rhetoric to action, citing Montenegro and Albania as countries where political will and commitment to reform could yield tangible progress in the accession process.
Regarding Serbia, it is noted that the EU has not successfully convinced Serbia of its place within the European family, necessitating self-criticism and a clearer political message. However, progress in Belgrade's support for Ukraine and its gradual distancing from Russia is seen as a development that the EU should constructively leverage. The sources mention a convergence of views with Greece and the Cypriot Presidency's intention to undertake initiatives to bolster Serbia's European alignment.
For Bosnia and Herzegovina, internal stabilization and institutional functioning are deemed essential for maintaining its European perspective. Cyprus expresses support for Ukraine and Moldova, prioritizing their accession negotiations based on merit, and highlights Moldova's commitment to reforms and strengthening the rule of law.
On Turkey, government sources underscore the significance of the Danish Presidency's statement from the General Affairs Council meeting, which includes critical references agreed upon by all 27 Member States. The Cyprus EU Presidency aims to act as an impartial mediator to foster an EU-Turkey relationship grounded in principles and reciprocity, with the strategic goal of aligning Turkey closer to EU values.
All candidate countries, including Turkey, will be invited to the informal General Affairs Council in Cyprus. There is also consideration of inviting President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to the informal European Council. Government sources stress that both the EU and the Cyprus Presidency must be ready to achieve tangible results, contingent on Turkey's responsive actions and compliance.
Euro-Turkish relations, in light of the European Council Conclusions of April 2024, are prioritized by the Republic of Cyprus within a strategy that links enlargement with stability, international law, and European credibility. Following the enlargement discussion, leaders are set to address the next agenda item, the Multiannual Financial Framework at the European Council level.