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The focus: Berlin is aiming for EU integration and new partnerships
Find out why the Berlin process for expanding the EU has stalled. The article illuminates current political developments, the role of alternatives to the EU and the geopolitical interests that influence the region. A look at the challenges and opportunities for the Balkan countries in the area of tension between the EU and other global actors.
The focus: Berlin is aiming for EU integration and new partnerships
a decade ago, Berlin should be the engine for a new future on the Western Balkans! Angela Merkel raised the Berlin process from baptism-a clear commitment: the Western Balkans belongs to the EU! But what has happened since then? Another summit under Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Monday only promised to intensify the cooperation and promote academic exchange. More than just a little ray of hope in a dark reality that does not look like progress!
Six Balkans-Albania, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Montenegro, Northern Macedonia, Serbia and Kosovo-should be headed for by the EU. But in the shadow of the summit it turns out that the willingness to go to Europe is disappearing. Particularly explosive: Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic did not show up, but instead sent Premier Milos Vucevic. A clear sign that Belgrade is fighting for his own agenda!
The dangers from the east
The Balkan countries have long since had a plan B. Serbia is in the front row when it comes to finding alternatives to the EU. China advertises influence, investing in the region, while Turkey and Arab states expand their trade relationships. But not just that! The USA is also present - and if the polarizing Donald Trump moves back into the White House, the race around the Balkans could step into a new, explosive phase!
Berlin, on the other hand, is not exactly as a partner at eye level. The federal government has thrown its eyes on the valuable lithium deposits in Serbia - a step that is not without scandalous environmental consequences. And where is the interest in the local people? Protests against this exploitation bounce off the politicians who instead seek their own advantage! For Germany, the Balkans remains a back yard, regardless of whether the countries are part of the EU or not. This is about power and resources, not about real partnership.
a summit without real results
The tired attempt to advance the common market is nothing more than a lip service. The hopes that Angela Merkel once aroused have long since smashed in reality. The Berlin process has changed into a dead end! Instead, the question remains: Where does this path lead to the Balkan countries and their dream of the EU?