As part of the Civil Society Forum—held in Kosovo for the first time under the Berlin Process and themed “Proof, not promises” this year—the Republic of Kosovo’s Chief Negotiator with the EU, Mr. Jeton Zulfaj, participated in the panel titled “The Future of the Berlin Process and the Region’s Place in the European Union.”
Moderated by Ms. Ilva Tare, the panel featured discussions involving Chief Negotiator Zulfaj alongside Montenegro’s Chief Negotiator, Mr. Predrag Zenović; Mr. Adnan Ćerimagić of the European Stability Initiative; and Prof. Gentian Elezi of the College of Europe and the University of Tirana.
In his remarks, Chief Negotiator Zulfaj emphasized the importance of the Berlin Process in fostering regional cooperation and bringing the Western Balkans closer to the European Union. This initiative has united the Western Balkan countries and addressed issues of particular significance, including mobility and connectivity.
Mr. Zulfaj welcomed the progress made by Montenegro and Albania on their paths toward EU membership, stressing that regional cooperation remains essential even after both countries join the Union, regardless of the varying paces at which the region’s nations advance. Regarding gradual integration into the EU, he stated that such integration should serve as a catalyst to move the region forward and bring it closer to the EU more quickly, rather than as an alternative to full membership.
Finally, Chief Negotiator Zulfaj emphasized the need to continue cooperation with member states to ensure the necessary unity within the EU for advancing Kosovo’s application and securing candidate country status.
