The European Liberal Forum (ELF), in collaboration with the ALDE Party and the Atlantic Club in Bulgaria, is organizing the fifth edition of the "EU Meets the Balkans" forum at "Sofia Tech Park". Participants examined the accession stages of Balkan states to the European Union, with the panel "Voice of the Region: The Balkans' Path in a Competitive World" featuring representatives from Turkey, Romania, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Albania, and Montenegro.
During the event, Jeton Zulfaj, the Chief Negotiator of the Republic of Kosovo for EU integration, expressed frustration over the lack of progress in accession negotiations. "We have been candidates since December 15, 2022, yet the European Union is completely ignoring us," Zulfaj stated. He emphasized that, despite this, his country finds partners and friends in Bulgaria who support Kosovo's aspiration for a stronger economy, more stable democracy, and a more secure region: "I believe that here, in Bulgaria, we find friends and partners who believe we can move forward, because I do not believe anyone is against our country becoming a stronger democracy, having a stronger economy, and being part of a more secure region."
In the context of these aspirations, Minister of Foreign Affairs Velislava Petrova held a meeting with Jeton Zulfaj, as reported by the Ministry on its official page. Bulgaria supports Kosovo as a reliable regional partner and will continue to provide a clear perspective for its EU membership, according to the MFA statement. Minister Petrova emphasized the need for candidate countries to align their actions and foreign policy positions with the EU's Common Foreign and Security Policy, as this is a key indicator of their geopolitical orientation. She cited Kosovo as an example of excellent results in this regard, adding that significant progress should lead to the possibility of further advancement.
The Bulgarian Foreign Minister further stressed that the sustainability of commitments is guaranteed through strict adherence to the principle of merit. Regarding European integration, Petrova stated: "I believe that sharing the experience we have gained in the European integration process is a valuable opportunity for countries now embarking on this path. Bulgaria is ready to be an active partner in this direction."
Negotiations for Kosovo's accession to the EU remain blocked because five member states—Spain, Greece, Romania, Slovakia, and Cyprus—do not recognize the independence of Kosovo, declared in 2008, media outlets recall.