Von der Leyen: Negotiations with BiH when it achieves the necessary degree of alignment with EU criteria, RS has passed a series of unconstitutional laws

(Patria) - European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said at today's press conference that the Commission recommends that the Council approve accession negotiations with BiH once the necessary degree of alignment with EU criteria is achieved.

"We recognize that BiH has taken a whole series of steps. The swift formation of the BiH Council of Ministers, the commitment of all political parties to the goal of EU accession, and this has led to progress in the fight against terrorism and money laundering.

We note with concern that the RS has passed a series of unconstitutional laws. Therefore, the Commission recommends to the Council accession negotiations once the necessary degree of alignment with EU criteria is achieved," said Von der Leyen.

When asked further what will happen with BiH, the EC President said:

"We are opening the door very wide and inviting BiH to walk through, but we must see results, but the door is wide open," she said.

She said that Ukraine continues to face great difficulties caused by Russia's war of aggression.

"And despite this, it is implementing reforms. I was there over the weekend and saw for myself that they have fulfilled more than 90 percent of the steps. Great progress has been made in constitutional reform, combating corruption, combating money laundering, greater control over oligarchs, a new media law, and the treatment of national minorities. Based on this, the Commission recommends opening accession negotiations.

Moldova is the subject of constant destabilizing efforts. Like Ukraine, Moldova has taken steps to reform its judiciary and intensified actions in the areas of corruption and crime. Here, the Commission believes that the Council could complete the negotiation framework," she said.

She emphasized that enlargement is key for the EU and completing our Union is something that is being asked of us.

"The citizens of these countries that want to join are Europeans, we are bound by geographical, historical, and value ties. Previous enlargements have shown us that they have brought new benefits," said Von der Leyen.

If the European Council makes a decision on accession negotiations in December, Ukraine still has several reforms to complete.

"We will report on progress by March, as soon as the European Council gives the green light in December," she said.