Von der Leyen to create a separate position of European Commissioner for Enlargement.

Ursula von der Leyen announced the creation of a new position of EU Commissioner for Enlargement

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced that the new composition of the EU's executive body will include a separate official responsible for enlargement issues.

She stated this during a speech at a forum in the Slovenian city of Bled.

Von der Leyen noted that during her first term “the issue of enlargement returned to the top of our political agenda,” and the war of Russia against Ukraine played a significant role in this.

“We strive to create a strong, competitive, and secure Europe that includes the Western Balkans, Ukraine, and Moldova, as well as all those whose actions align with European aspirations,” she noted.

The head of the European Commission emphasized that the EU is a “community of democracies,” so countries wishing to join will have to implement the necessary reforms and resolve bilateral conflicts.

“I want our work (on enlargement. - Ed.) to become even more intensive. In the next composition of the Commission, enlargement should become a permanent task, with sufficient resources allocated for it. Therefore, I will appoint a special Commissioner for Enlargement. Together we can create a new history,” von der Leyen stated.

Previously, the European Commission combined enlargement issues with those of neighborhood, concerning EU relations with Mediterranean and South Caucasus countries, which are not part of the European Union and do not wish to join it.

Source: European Truth