The European Commission has recommended that Ukraine, Moldova, and Georgia should be permitted to open membership talks to join the European Union, AP News reports.
The European Commission praised Ukraine for its institutional strength and determination but suggested talks should start once it addresses corruption, lobbying concerns, and language restrictions. Moldova received a similar message, with the need for progress in justice and anti-corruption efforts.
Georgia was told it could be named an official candidate once it addresses shortcomings, particularly in fighting corruption and election deficiencies.
However, the Balkans region, including Albania, Bosnia, Montenegro, Serbia, and Kosovo, appear to have slipped back in the queue due to concerns about ethnic divisions, lack of normalization in relations, and other issues.
Meanwhile, Turkey’s EU accession bid remains stalled, with the commission citing serious deficiencies in democratic institutions, declining human rights standards, and no progress in fighting corruption.
