German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said at the EU-Western Balkans summit in Tivat, Montenegro, that he wants to accelerate the integration of Western Balkan countries into the European Union. He voiced optimism about a Franco-German initiative aimed at injecting fresh momentum into the accession process by creating incentives for faster reforms.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called for making the enlargement process "faster and more credible," describing it as a "geostrategic imperative" and a "long-term investment in peace, stability and security."

Six candidate countries—Montenegro, Albania, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Kosovo, North Macedonia, and Serbia—are seeking EU membership. Montenegro is seen as the frontrunner, aiming to become the 28th member by 2028.

Merz's plan envisions candidate states being admitted as observers to EU body meetings, advanced integration into the Euro payment area, and inclusion in single-rate cross-border data roaming. He said a "gradual process" would be launched and there would be "no more excuses."

However, Serbia's close political ties to Russia and economic ties to China complicate its path. Merz called on Serbia to "clearly decide where it sees its future" and abandon a "policy of swinging between Russia, China and Europe." EU enlargement commissioner Marta Kos singled out Serbia for democratic backsliding.

Meanwhile, Merz's proposal for accelerated "associated membership" for Ukraine has caused resentment among Balkan candidates. He is trying to compensate by offering additional integration incentives to the Western Balkan states.

Source: www.dw.com