Ukraine and Moldova Open Accession Talks; Montenegro Closes Two Chapters

Ukraine and Moldova are set to take a significant step toward European Union membership as they open accession negotiations on Monday in Luxembourg. The initial cluster of talks will focus on fundamental rights and justice, signaling the EU's commitment to integrating these nations.

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The European Union has taken a big step forward today. All member states have agreed to open the first cluster of accession negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova.

European Council President Charles Michel announced the bloc's agreement to open the first negotiation cluster with both countries. This cluster includes five chapters: public procurement, statistics, justice and fundamental rights, and justice, freedom, and security. These chapters form the core of the accession process, being the first opened and the last closed.

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These chapters represent the backbone of the accession process and are the first to be opened and the last to be closed.

Meanwhile, Montenegro will simultaneously close negotiations in two chapters: free movement of workers and consumer protection and health. Montenegro is the most advanced in its accession process, having already closed 14 chapters and aiming to conclude all remaining negotiations by the end of the year. The EU's decision to advance negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova marks a crucial development in their long-standing aspirations for closer ties with the bloc.

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The first cluster covers fundamental values and principles on which the EU is built, from the rule of law to strong democratic institutions.