The dream of Europe extends to the Western Balkans, Ukraine, Georgia and Moldova, the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, said today at the presentation of the composition of the new European Commission in the European Parliament, TANYUG reported. quoted by BTA.
Speaking for the portfolio of new EU enlargement commissioner Marta Koss, Von der Leyen said the EU supports these countries in the merit-based process “until they are ready to join our Union” .
The fight for freedom is not just about our 27 member countries. The dream of Europe extends to the Western Balkans, Ukraine, Moldova and beyond. We saw the courage of the people of Ukraine and their desire for the European path. We have seen the determination of the people of Moldova to stay on the path to their European future. I have seen and we have seen the commitment of the Western Balkans to reforms, growth and preparations for joining the EU, Von der Leyen told MEPs before the vote on the new composition of the EC.
We have seen how Russia will stop at nothing to hinder their European future, the President of the EC also stated.
However, Europe's commitment to these countries will always be stronger, she added.
She noted that the EU wants Ukraine to become part of the European Union and will be by Ukraine's side as long as necessary.
Von der Leyen presented his new team and its program to the European Parliament, followed by a debate, and later MEPs will vote on the composition of the new European Commission.