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Brussels – Slovak Member of the European Parliament (EP) Vladimír Bilčík (Independent/EPP) is on a working visit to Montenegro and Serbia from Monday to Thursday (3 – 6.6.). The aim is to assess the EU enlargement process over the last five years and the impact of the European elections on the further continuation of this process, the deputy told TASR.
Bilčík, who is no longer running for the European Parliament, visited the Western Balkan countries aspiring to join the EU in his capacity as the EP’s standing rapporteur for Serbia and chairman of the EP Delegation for relations with Montenegro.
“EU enlargement is once again a strategic priority. During the five years of my MEP mandate, I have devoted myself particularly and intensely to the Western Balkans region. I am convinced that in the context of the ongoing Russian aggression in our neighborhood, we must fight for a European presence and a successful future in the Western Balkans,” explained Bilčík, a member of the European People’s Party (EPP) in the EP.
He pointed out that this week’s European elections are very important for the future of the Western Balkan region, as they will change the composition of the European Parliament and the European Commission.
“The aim of my trip is to assess the progress over the past five years, and at the same time to discuss with the political leadership of Montenegro and Serbia the implications that the European elections may have for the Western Balkans and for the further enlargement process,” explained Bilčík.
He stressed that Montenegro is the furthest along in the accession negotiations, but EU states must work to bring all Western Balkan countries closer to EU membership, and above all to ensure that expansion actually takes place within the next five years.
Bilčík traveled to the Western Balkans at the invitation of the Konrad Adenauer Foundation (Konrad Adenauer Stiftung). In Podgorica, he will meet with Montenegrin President Jakov Milatović and Prime Minister Milojko Spajić. In Belgrade, he is scheduled to hold talks with Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić and Parliament Speaker Ana Brnabić. During the working visit, he will also discuss with media representatives and non-governmental organizations in both countries. (June 3)
“The aim of my trip is to assess the progress over the past five years, and at the same time to discuss with the political leadership of Montenegro and Serbia the implications that the European elections may have for the Western Balkans and for the further enlargement process.” Vladimír Bilčík