Kosovo* mission starts work

The EULEX mission in Kosovo started its mandate on 9 December. The EU Civilian Operations Commander, Kees Klompenhouwer, informed member states on 5 December that the EULEX mission had reached its initial operational capability, and was in a position to discharge its role. *Under UNSCR 1244/1999

Montenegro submits its application for membership

Montenegro submitted its application for membership to the European Union on 15 December in Paris.

Ministers welcome Commission enlargement package

"The Council welcomes the Commission communication dated 5 November 2008 on Enlargement Strategy and Main Challenges 2008-2009, and takes due note of the analysis and recommendations", concluded the External Relations Council on 8 December.

Praise for Turkey is accompanied by a "to-do" list

The Turkish government’s "reaffirmed commitment to work for reforms" was applauded by EU foreign affairs ministers when they reviewed enlargement progress at their External Relations Council in Brussels on 8 December.

Pace of EU negotiations determined largely by Croatia

Further progress in accession negotiations is expected with Croatia before the end of the year, according to the General Affairs and External Relations Council of 8 December. But the pace of the negotiations continues to depend in particular on progress made by Croatia in fulfilling the conditions laid down, the Council added.

SAA Council welcomes commitment of the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia to reforms

The country’s "firm commitment to progressing with the reforms relating to the process of European accession" was noted at the Stabilisation and Association Council between the EU and the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, in Brussels on 8 December.

Bosnia and Herzegovina needs a common vision on its future, says Council

Signing the Stabilisation and Association Agreement is not enough, underlined EU foreign affairs ministers at the 8 December General Affairs and External Relations Council when they discussed Bosnia and Herzegovina. The Council said it was "very concerned" by political developments, particularly recent declarations and unilateral actions, and the slow-down of reforms.

Praise for Serbian "restraint and moderation"

Serbia managed the "particularly delicate political situation" this year with "restraint and moderation", concluded the second European Parliament-Serbia Interparliamentary Meeting, held in Belgrade on 25-26 November. The meeting also acknowledged "the reinforced political commitment and involvement of the European Union in the process of European integration of Serbia", and asked the EU Council to "rapidly unblock" the entry into force of the interim agreement signed earlier this year with the country.

Rehn links energy security and enlargement

Discussing the external dimension of energy security at a conference in Turku on 27 November, European Enlargement Commissioner Olli Rehn stressed the "clear link" to EU enlargement policy. "Take the case of Turkey", said the Commissioner, describing it as a key strategic partner in energy security, offering safe corridors for energy transport from the Caspian region to the EU.

Enlargement included in EU recovery plan

Solidarity with the candidate and potential candidate countries is expressed in the European Commission’s comprehensive plan to drive recovery from the current economic crisis.

Western Balkans receive reassurance from Council

EU foreign affairs ministers took stock of the Western Balkans during their 8 December General Affairs and External Relations Council. They reaffirmed the prospect of the accession of the Western Balkans, which, they said, was essential for stability, reconciliation and the future of the region.

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