The Netherlands supports negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova on membership in the European Union, outgoing Foreign Minister Hanke Bruins Slot wrote in a letter to Tweede Kamer. The European Commission wishes to begin negotiations with the two countries to this effect. Negotiations with Bosnia could also take place later, but this country has not yet taken the necessary steps.
Ukraine still had a long way to go before it could be considered for negotiations, but according to the Commission it has now made good progress despite the war with Russia. For example, Ukraine has strengthened the rule of law by appointing judges more fairly and fighting corruption. The Republic of Moldova has also made progress in the fight against corruption.
The Netherlands supports the Commission’s assessment regarding the opening of accession negotiations. However, there is still work to be done for both countries. “Additional efforts and results, particularly in the areas of good governance and the rule of law, are necessary to continue the positive trend,” wrote Minister Bruins Slot.
However, Bosnia and Herzegovina is currently not eligible for negotiations. The European Commission estimates that the country still has deficits in areas such as press freedom and corruption. The Netherlands agrees with this. However, the Netherlands sees a future for this Balkan country in the EU.
As far as Georgia is concerned, the Dutch government is cautious. According to the Netherlands, the progress made by the country is still limited. Nevertheless, the Netherlands believes that relations between Georgia and the EU should be strengthened in the interest of “regional stability”. The inclusion of Georgia in the group of candidate countries would send a “clear signal”.
Since Russia invaded Ukraine, these countries have been trying to move closer to the EU and hope to benefit from the protection of their big neighbor. “In a changing world, the EU must invest firmly in stronger relations with other countries and regions,” Bruins Slot said. “In the context of a new geopolitical reality and in particular the war against Ukraine, the question of the future enlargement of the Union has become urgent.”
The proposals will be voted on by EU leaders in Brussels in mid-December.