The European Union is holding intergovernmental conferences on enlargement with four candidate countries on July 14, marking the first time in more than 20 years that such talks have taken place simultaneously, European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos said, Report informs.
Speaking to journalists in Brussels, Marta Kos said the EU is opening the sixth negotiating cluster with Ukraine and Moldova, while the next stage of accession talks will also be held with Montenegro and Albania.
Kos noted that the sixth cluster focuses on external relations, including defense cooperation and countering hybrid threats. She said Ukraine and Moldova are expected to make an important contribution to Europe's security architecture.
She also described July 14 as a "turning point" for Albania, which has begun closing negotiating chapters, and highlighted Montenegro's continued progress in the accession process.
Regarding Ukraine's next steps, Kos said the European Commission believes the remaining four negotiating clusters can be opened "as soon as possible."
According to her, the decision now rests with the EU member states, while technical preparations continue. She added that Kyiv already knows which reforms are required, particularly under the first and sixth negotiating clusters.
Kos also expressed hope that the formation of a new government in Ukraine will provide fresh momentum for reforms and help the country fulfill its commitments on the path toward European Union membership.