Minister Strand affirms Finland’s support for EU integration of Western Balkans on visit to region

Minister Strand affirms Finland's support for EU integration of Western Balkans on visit to region

Minister for European Affairs and Ownership Steering Joakim Strand visited Montenegro and North Macedonia on 1-2 October. The purpose of the visit was to strengthen engagement between Finland and the EU candidate countries in the Western Balkans and to show Finland's strong support for the EU integration of the region.

During his visit, Minister Strand met with his counterparts and other political leaders, as well as with representatives of civil society organisations. The discussions focused on the countries' EU accession processes, the reforms needed for accession and the role of civil society.

"Our discussions revealed the countries' strong willingness to move forward on the path to EU membership. I expressed Finland's readiness to support them in carrying out the necessary reforms. It is important for the accession process to remain credible and encouraging - it should motivate the countries to implement reforms and commit to European principles," Strand emphasised.

"EU membership is more than just a political goal; it requires long-term efforts to develop the rule of law, democracy and the economy. I encouraged them to continue this work," Minister Strand said.

Finland supports the efforts of the Western Balkans to join the EU and is in favour of EU enlargement based on each candidate country's own merits and the fulfilment of membership criteria.

"Enlargement is more than just a technical process - it is a strategic investment in the stability and security of Europe. Each step towards membership also strengthens the Union's single market and common values," Strand said.

In Montenegro, Minister Strand met with Minister for European Affairs Maida Gorčević, Deputy Prime Minister for International Relations and Minister of Foreign Affairs

Ervin Ibrahimović, President of Parliament Andrija Mandić and representatives of civil society organisations. In North Macedonia, he spoke with Minister for European Affairs Orhan Murtezani and Minister for Foreign Affairs Timčo Mucunski and met with members of local civil society organisations. Minister Strand also attended an informal dinner with Serbian Minister of European Integration Nemanja Starović.

Inquiries: Alexander Lång, Special Adviser, tel. +358 295 160 866 and Heli Siivola, Senior Specialist for EU Affairs, tel. +358 50 576 7745, Prime Minister's Office