Lopatka for enr/MIA: It's time to take the chance to enlarge EU, optimistic for North Macedonia
Strasbourg, 24 October 2025 (MIA) - After a long time where we were not able to bring a new country in our European family, it is time to take the chance to enlarge the European Union during this term, Austrian MEP Reinhold Lopatka said in a statement for the European Newsroom (enr), comprised of several news agencies, including MIA.
"I think it is positive what is ongoing in Montenegro, in Albania, and and I am also optimistic for North Macedonia," said Lopatka, who is a member of the European People's Party (EPP).
According to him, in terms of enlargement, we have to see progress, and we should not close our eyes when there are huge problems.
"We have to see this progress in Montenegro and in Albania, but I see also good chances for North Macedonia. Bosnia and Herzegovina is facing a very difficult situation, especially with Republika Srpska. Serbia has a lot of troubles, and also Kosovo is facing troubles. So the Belgrade-Pristina dialogue is not any more in our centre, because in the centre are the problems inside the countries," Lopatka said.
He noted that the enlargement and having all Western Balkan countries in the European Union has always been in the focus, especially of his home country, Austria.
"But we have to be honest. It can only be a merit based process. If they are not able to do their homework, then the EU cannot be able to say welcome," said Lopatka.
The MEP noted that he would say to people in the region that they should see the added value of EU accession.
"They should see the chances of this huge market. They should also see the chances for young people. For example, having the chance of working here in European institutions. So many Croatians, Romanians, people from Bulgaria, even in my office, are from these countries. And of course, if you look back through the centuries, they are part of Europe. And they should use their chances. I think it's a huge chance for young people. The politicians should not miss this chance. They should give the chance to their young people," Lopatka said.
Photo: print screen
