German Chancellor Olaf Scholz asked the European Union to keep its promise to the Western Balkan countries, as far as their integration is concerned.

In a speech to the European Parliament regarding the future of Europe, Scholz also called for the continuation of the dialogue towards normalization between Kosovo and Serbia.

“Europe should be open to others. Last year, the EU took some important decisions, as we decided to work for an enlarged Europe. We have told the Western Balkans, as well as Ukraine, Moldova and maybe even Georgia, that they belong in Europe. The geopolitical Europe must keep its promises. We have been promising integration to the Balkan countries for 20 years now. Normalization of relations between Kosovo and Serbia must continue. We must push forward with integration reforms. We must also advance with the negotiation process with North Macedonia. Enlargement should not be the only motive for reforms, but should be kept in mind,” declared the German chancellor.