Germany's foreign minister advocates for Western Balkans countries to join the European Union as a response to Russia's aggression against Ukraine, offering a financial package to support their integration.
Key Points
Germany sees Western Balkans joining EU as a 'geopolitical necessity'
EU offering 6 billion euro package to support integration of Western Balkan nations
Focus on aligning laws, standards, and institutions with EU norms
Pros
Strengthening Europe in the face of Russia's aggression
Encouraging reform and alignment with EU standards in Western Balkan nations
Offering economic benefits and support for integration
Cons
Ethnic tensions and historical conflicts in the Balkan region
Potential resistance from pro-Russian factions within the Balkan countries