“EU enlargement is the Union’s most powerful instrument for bringing countries that share our values into the European family, strengthening Europe’s long-term security and increasing the EU’s economic and political weight,” the Foreign Minister said. “That is why every step towards enlargement is welcome and brings us closer to a stronger Europe.”
The sixth negotiation cluster opened today covers external relations. The first cluster of accession negotiations – Fundamentals – was opened with Ukraine and Moldova on 15 June this year.
“The opening of negotiation clusters enables candidate countries to continue implementing reforms and align their legislation with EU law,” Tsahkna said. “This unlocks the true transformative power of EU accession – far-reaching reforms and the adoption of the entire EU acquis. That is why Estonia expects all the remaining negotiation clusters with Ukraine and Moldova to be opened as quickly as possible.”
The remaining four negotiation clusters cover the internal market; competitiveness and inclusive growth; the green agenda and sustainable connectivity; and resources, agriculture and cohesion.
The EU also closed two negotiating chapters with Montenegro and three chapters with Albania today.
“Both Montenegro and Albania are making strong progress towards EU membership, and if they maintain their current pace, they could be ready to join the European Union in 2028 and 2030 respectively,” Tsahkna said.
