The Twenty-seven member states have decided this Friday to launch the opening of the first block of chapters for the accession of Ukraine and Moldova to the community bloc, thus formally initiating negotiations for both countries to join the European Union, after Hungary withdrew the veto it had maintained for two years.
In a meeting of ambassadors held in Brussels, the Council of the EU has closed a common position to open the first package of chapters, considered 'fundamental' and described in Brussels as "the backbone of the accession process". The official signing will take place next Monday in the community capital in separate intergovernmental conferences.
"This is a recognition of the determination, courage, and hard work shown by both countries to drive reforms, even in the face of immense challenges," said the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, and the President of the European Council, António Costa, in a joint statement.
The German conservative leader and the Portuguese socialist leader have applauded the opening of this first group of chapters, referring to it as "a sign that the EU's offer of peace, stability, and opportunities is unparalleled." "Enlargement is a strategic decision. By bringing our nations closer, we strengthen peace, security, and prosperity across our continent," they maintained.
Both have also stressed that, in an international scenario "marked by growing uncertainty," "a larger European Union benefits" the common interest, so that the enlargement of the bloc "remains one of the EU's greatest successes" and the "best investment in our common future."
Cyprus, the country holding the rotating presidency of the Council of the EU, has also welcomed the understanding, highlighting that it represents "a milestone" and a recognition of the "aspirations, resilience, and hard work" of the two candidates who "have chosen Europe and its values."
"By taking this important step together, we reaffirm that the European Union is stronger when it stands united, principled, and open to those committed to its values," the Council presidency indicated in a social media message.