Czech Presidency underlines importance of EU enlargement policy

The full text of the Czech objectives for its Presidency of the European Council during the first half of this year emphasises the importance of enlargement.

Rehn: "Enlargement policy is still valid in 2009"

The twentieth-anniversary of the fall of the Iron Curtain crumble and the fifth anniversary of the major enlargement that brought in the new Member States makes 2009 "a good time to reflect on EU enlargement, and recall its importance as one of the Union’s most powerful policy tools", European Enlargement Commissioner Olli Rehn told the External Relations Section of the European Economic and Social Committee in Brussels on 5 February.

Turkey’s "modest but steady pace" not enough

"The EU’s accession negotiations with Turkey are proceeding at a modest but steady pace", said European Enlargement Commissioner Olli Rehn in Brussels on 5 February. "I am pleased that there has been some progress with freedom of expression, with the amendment of Article 301 of the penal code. This was long overdue.

Tangible EU support for Western Balkans

Important steps towards visa-free travel to the EU, more scholarships for studies in the EU, and more opportunities in research are among the examples of tangible EU support for the countries of the Western Balkans in a European Commission report released in early February. The overview gives an update on action to support the political and economic development in the countries of the Western Balkans and accelerate their progress on the road towards EU membership. *Under UNSCR 1244/1999

Croatia’s negotiations progress – but also face delays

"Croatia’s negotiations are at an advanced stage", European Enlargement Commissioner Olli Rehn said in Brussels on 5 February, adding: "The Croatian government is pressing to complete negotiations by the end of 2009".

Kosovo develops one year after declaration of independence

The Commission will present a study in 2009 to help ensure Kosovo’s continued development and EU orientation, confirmed European Enlargement Commissioner Olli Rehn on 5 February.

Bosnia and Herzegovina’s "major challenges"

"Bosnia and Herzegovina made some progress in 2008, and – over time – a slow but steady process of stabilisation has taken place", said European Enlargement Commissioner Olli Rehn in Brussels on 5 February.

"Strong support" for Serbia – with conditions

European Enlargement Commissioner Olli Rehn visited Belgrade on 12 February to reiterate the EU’s strong support for Serbia’s European future. During his visit, he officially inaugurated the new Commission delegation premises in Belgrade, where staff has increased over the last two years to more than 100 people – making it one of the largest EC delegations in the world.

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