Kosovo's Future Lies in the EU, Says European Council President Michel

European Council President Charles Michel declared that Kosovo's future is firmly within the European Union during his tour of the Balkans. Speaking in Pristina, he called upon Kosovo's political leaders to make European integration their top priority, urging them to set aside political disagreements.

Michel addressed reporters at the European House in Pristina, stating that Kosovo's integration process should progress through reforms and the fulfillment of agreed-upon criteria with the EU. He expressed confidence that no obstacles would prevent Kosovo's eventual membership.

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Kosovo's future is in the European Union.

"Every process has its time. We agreed on a reform agenda and we agreed that the accession process to the European Union is very important. It is essential that Kosovo, step by step, achieves the results we have agreed upon," Michel said, reflecting on his meetings in Pristina.

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It is essential that Kosovo, step by step, achieves the results we have agreed upon.

He stressed the EU's commitment to supporting Kosovo and the Western Balkans, framing EU enlargement as a strategic investment in European peace and stability. "So far, we have invested 3.7 billion euros in education, technology, and energy. Enlargement is an investment in peace," Michel stated, congratulating Kosovo on its progress toward the EU.

Michel's message to Kosovo's leaders was clear: "Partnership with the European Union goes hand in hand with the responsibility to implement necessary reforms." He added, "The EU can support Kosovo, but it cannot do its tasks. Kosovo needs strong and capable institutions to implement reforms and seize the opportunities offered by the European Union."

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Enlargement is an investment in peace.

He also highlighted the significance of dialogue with Belgrade and fulfilling international obligations, calling for full implementation of the Ohrid Agreement. Michel indicated that progress in reforms, strengthening institutions, and respecting agreements are key elements for Kosovo's advancement toward European integration.

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Partnership with the European Union goes hand in hand with the responsibility to implement necessary reforms.