Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 12 April 2017
234. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the extent to which the western Balkans receives constructive support and attention from the European Union; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18646/17]
View answerThe Western Balkans continues to be a priority for the European Union. At the most recent European Council on 9 March, the Heads of State and Government, including the Taoiseach, reaffirmed their unequivocal support for the European perspective of the Western Balkans. The region was also discussed at the most recent Foreign Affairs Council (6 March) which I attended, and the most recent General Affairs Council (7 March), at which Ireland was represented by Minister Dara Murphy, T.D.
These high-level discussions both reflect the commitment of the EU to the Western Balkans, particularly in a context where internal political difficulties are compounded by the impact of external influences on the stability of the region, and complement the on-going work of the European Commission and the Member States, including Ireland, in respect of progress on the enlargement and integration processes in individual candidate and potential candidate countries.
Ireland is a strong supporter of the enlargement process, regarding it as a transformative driver for stability and progress, and we work actively with our European partners to assist candidates on their reform path, and to encourage good neighbourly relations and inclusive regional cooperation initiatives.
