STRASBOURG – In his State of the Union address, Von der Leyen backed the idea of expanding the EU to at least 30 members, saying enlargement could be a “catalyst for progress” in the block. “We have proven that we can be a geopolitical union and that we can move forward quickly when we are united. And I believe that Team Europe also works among those aged 30 and over,” she said.
“The future of Ukraine, Moldova and the Western Balkans lies in our Union. We must define a vision for successful enlargement,” said European Commission President Ursula Von der Leyen.
Von der Leyen warned that EU membership was “based on merit” – in other words, conditional on far-reaching reforms in candidate countries – and that the Commission would “always defend this principle”.
“The rule of law and respect for fundamental rights are and will always be the foundation of our Union, of our current and future Member States.
“We are now working closely with Member States to identify progress and concerns – and make recommendations for the year ahead. This ensures accountability before this House and national parliaments. It enabled dialogue between member states. And it gets results. I believe he can do the same for future member states. This is why I am very happy to announce that we will open the rule of law reports to the candidate countries which will be even faster. This will put them on an equal footing with Member States. Aand support them in their reform efforts,” Von der Leyen said.
She mentioned that the great enlargement was a “European Day of Welcome”, adding that it was a triumph of determination and hope over the burdens of the past.
“And in the 20 years since, we have seen economic success that has improved the lives of millions of people. I want us to look forward to the next European Welcome Day and the next economic successes. We know that this is not an easy path,” concluded the President of the European Commission.
