It is too early to say that we will not succeed with the usual process of EU enlargement, said Danish Minister for European Affairs Marie Bier at a press conference dedicated to the start of the Danish Presidency of the Council of the EU, BTA reports.
“We will do everything in our power and put maximum pressure on Hungary“, she stressed.
The minister noted that only Hungary continues to block the start of negotiations with Kiev and added that the pressure must be maintained. “Ukrainians need the perspective of EU membership“, said Bier.
“We want to make progress during our presidency. EU enlargement is about security. Ukraine is ready to start negotiations. Our goal is to start negotiations with both Ukraine and Moldova“, she explained in response to a question about whether the two countries could be separated in the accession process if Budapest does not change its position. “We are still working on starting negotiations with Kiev and Chisinau simultaneously“, the minister added.
“For the good of Europe, it is important that enlargement moves forward - it is time“, Bier also said, warning that if there is peace in Ukraine on Russian terms, the war could shift to an EU and NATO country.
The minister stressed that migration is a key issue for the Danish Presidency. According to her, Copenhagen will seek new solutions for better control of the EU borders. “Things that attract illegal migrants must be eliminated“, she explained.