Ukraine and the Republic of Moldova have met the conditions to begin negotiations for accession to the European Union

The topic of enlargement was discussed at the Council during the technical meeting of the member states’ representations at the European Union. The Commission informed the Council that Ukraine and Moldova have fulfilled their promises regarding reforms.

Thus, the actual negotiation process can now begin. Ukraine has made the latest legislative changes regarding justice lobbying and minority issues, while the Republic of Moldova has implemented changes in the judicial system.

In both countries’ cases, the Commission will monitor the implementation of the new legislation. However, the step taken by Ukraine and Moldova allows for the initiation of accession negotiations. The first step after this moment is for the member states to approve the Commission’s recommendation in the Council. There is currently a question mark regarding Hungary’s position. Budapest requests that Ukraine amend its legislation regarding minorities.

According to the European Commission, this issue has now been resolved. The second step will be to establish the first intergovernmental conference with Moldova and Ukraine. This moment marks the beginning of negotiations to align all legislation with European law. These negotiations will ultimately lead to actual accession.

The Presidency of the Council is currently held by Belgium, a country that aims to schedule the first intergovernmental conference during its mandate. This means by the end of July, after Belgium, Hungary will assume the presidency, a country that has repeatedly questioned the opportunity for enlargement.