Merz made these comments in the opening address at the Berlin Process Summit, which is being held today in Montenegro.
In 2018, at the Berlin Process summit in London, we jointly rejected the use of hate language and the legalisation of war criminals. If we want to create a better future for our children, we should not throw fire fuel, but move forward on the basis of European values. That is also true of dialogue on normalising relations between Pristina and Belgrade. In the current situation, this process is hindering everyone. Therefore, we call urgent for responsibility and progress, Merz said.
The German Chancellor stressed that a stable, peaceful and economically dynamic Western Balkans is essential for the future of the European Union, reaffirming Germany’s support for the region and the Berlin Process.
During the speech, Merz also focused on the importance of continuing the EU enlargement process, praising that membership is a realistic goal if countries in the region are committed and implementing necessary reforms.
He stressed that gradual EU integration should remain based on credit, while reforms and political will should come from the countries of the Western Balkans themselves.
Merz also spoke of protests in the region and in EU countries, stressing that violence should not be the option from either side. He also warned against divisive rhetoric, polarisation and legalisation of war criminals.
According to him, regional co-operation, reconciliation and respect of European values are essential for building a more secure and prosperous future.
The German Chancellor estimated that, during the 12 years of the Berlin Process, results have been achieved in the free movement of workers, investments, tourism, green agenda and digital services.
He also cited the progress of the enlargement process, stressing that Montenegro is close to completing the membership process.
Merz assured that Germany will continue to support the Berlin Process and the Western Balkan countries.
Meanwhile, after the end of Chancellor Merz’s speech, the works of the Berlin Process Summit are continuing without media presence.
Source Layer: RTKLive
