“The message to the Western Balkans is clear - to do everything for the rule of law. Only in this way will there be a good investment climate”, EU Commissioner for Enlargement Oliver Varhelyi said at a forum in Sofia named “The EU Meets the Balkans”. In his words, this year is likely to be a key year for enlargement, as there are changes in the way it is carried out and accepted. “The new members from the Balkans will bring opportunities for the EU”, Oliver Varhelyi went on to say.

"Russia has caused problems in 3 countries in the region that want prosperity through EU membership. We missed more than 5 years. We had a European Commission that held back enlargement. But times have changed and now member states have a clear perspective. They know that it is in their interest to integrate more and more countries", Commissioner Varhelyi noted.