EU agrees launch of accession process for Ukraine and Moldova
Al Jazeera • • general
Key Points:
- The European Union will officially launch the accession negotiations for Ukraine and Moldova next week, with talks beginning in Luxembourg on Monday, following agreement by EU ambassadors.
- The accession process had been delayed due to Hungary’s previous veto under former Prime Minister Viktor Orban, but the new Hungarian government has lifted the veto, allowing negotiations to proceed.
- EU leaders view the enlargement as a strategic move to enhance security and stability in the region, particularly in light of Russian aggression against Ukraine.
- Initial negotiations will focus on fundamental principles such as the rule of law, marking the start of a complex and lengthy accession process that typically spans several years.
- Hungary’s new Prime Minister Peter Magyar has agreed on minority rights issues with Ukraine but does not support a fast-track EU membership for Kyiv, indicating a referendum will be held if accession chapters are completed within 10 to 15 years.