“In the face of various challenges within the EU and its neighbourhood, the EU enlargement process continues to be an important instrument to strengthen the EU candidate countries, to encourage them to implement reforms, and regional cooperation. The EU’s enlargement policy is important in ensuring peace and stability in the region,” said Lithuania’s Foreign Minister.
Linkevičius also drew attention to the need to more effectively inform society of the EU member states and candidate countries about the EU enlargement process and mutual benefits, stressed the necessity for the EU candidate countries to gradually align their foreign policy to the EU’s foreign policy positions, and to continue the implementation of very important reforms in the field of the rule of law.
When commenting on the European Commission’s Reports and recommendations on individual countries, Lithuania’s Foreign Minister welcomed the Commission’s proposal to start accession negotiations with Albania, if the country reforms its justice system.
