|
6 Enlargement Strategy and Main Challenges 2012-13
| Legal base | —
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| Documents originated | 10 October 2012
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| Documents deposited | 16 October 2012
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| Department | Foreign and Commonwealth Office
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| Basis of consideration | Explanatory Memorandum of 18 October 2012
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| Previous Committee Report | None; but see (33233-33235), (33246-33253) & (33268): HC 428-xli (2010-12), chapter 9 (9 November 2011) and HC 428-xliii (2010-12), chapter 20 (7 December 2011)
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| Discussion in Council | 11 December 2012 General Affairs Council
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| Committee's assessment | Politically important
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| Committee's decision | Not cleared; further information requested.
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BACKGROUND
6.1 The Council is responsible for decisions on the admission
of new Member States; the Commission's annual report has traditionally
provided the basis for the Council to take stock and give direction
to the accession negotiations and pre-accession reform priorities.
The Commission Communication accordingly provides a statement
of the EU's evolving enlargement strategy, an assessment of progress,
and a look forward to the challenges and priorities for 2012.
6.2 The main document is the Enlargement Strategy and Main
Challenges 2012-13. This is accompanied by a set of comprehensive
Progress Reports on Iceland, Montenegro and Turkey (Candidate
countries); and Macedonia, Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH), Albania
and Kosovo (aspirant countries).
6.3 The Progress Reports analyse the progress made by individual
countries in meeting the Copenhagen criteria for membership, i.e.
political and economic criteria, as well as the capacity to assume
the obligations of membership. The political criteria require
the stability of institutions guaranteeing democracy, the rule
of law, human rights and respect for and protection of minorities.
The economic criteria require a functioning market economy able
to cope with the competitive pressure and market forces within
the Union. The ability to assume the obligations of membership
is based on progress in transposing and implementing the acquis
(the body of EU law). For the purposes of accession negotiations
this is split into 35 chapters ranging from the free movement
of goods, through the judiciary and fundamental rights, to the
environment and financial control. The reports on formal candidate
countries Iceland, Montenegro and Turkey detail progress on each
of the accession negotiation chapters. For the remaining countries,
the reports cover a wide range of issues in line with the political
and economic reforms required by their Stabilisation and Association
Agreements (SAAs) with the European Union (for all except Kosovo,
which does not have an SAA, but which is part of the Stabilisation
and Association Dialogue).
6.4 This year, the Commission has also produced two related
Communications on:
— a
Feasibility Study for an SAA between the European Union and Kosovo,
which covers similar ground, while also assessing Kosovo's readiness
to negotiate an SAA; and
— the
Main Findings of the Comprehensive Monitoring Report on Croatia's
state of preparedness for EU membership, as part of its pre-accession
monitoring.
6.5 This latter is the second such report, the
first (interim) monitoring report having been published in April
2012. In view of the imminent Second Reading of the Bill on Croatia's
accession treaty,[32]
we have dealt with this second Commission Communication in a separate
Report.[33]
THE
MAIN COMMISSION
COMMUNICATION: "ENLARGEMENT
STRATEGY AND
MAIN CHALLENGES
2012-2013"
6.6 In its introduction, the Commission makes
the case for continuing the enlargement process in familiar terms:
enlargement policy continues to contribute to peace, security
and prosperity on our continent; the prospect of accession drives
political and economic reforms; it reinforces the Union's political
and economic strengths, demonstrating its continued capacity as
a global actor; the most recent enlargement provided mutual benefits
of deeper trade integration, a larger internal market, economies
of scale and expanded investment and job opportunities.
6.7 The Commission also notes that strengthening
the rule of law and democratic governance is central to the enlargement
process. It thus addresses issues of direct concern to citizens
in both the EU and the enlargement countries of justice, security
and fundamental rights. Previous enlargements highlight the importance
of an increased focus on these areas and further improving the
quality of the process, with a view to creating an environment
in south-east Europe conducive to growth and attracting investment,
increased regional cooperation and dealing with common challenges
such as the fight against organised crime and corruption. The
Commission's proposed new approach to judiciary and fundamental
rights and justice, freedom and security as part of the negotiating
framework for Montenegro will ensure that "the rule of law
is firmly anchored at the heart of the accession process, laying
the foundation also for future negotiations."
6.8 The Commission notes that the enhanced economic,
financial and political integration within the EU resulting from
challenges facing the Eurozone will also have to be taken into
account in the enlargement process. Strengthening the enlargement
countries' resilience to crisis is, the Commission says, a matter
of joint interest; a stronger, enlarged EU will be better placed
to address these challenges. The dynamism of the Turkish economy,
its geopolitical role, contribution to energy security and young
population "represent an opportunity for both Turkey and
the EU in a context of an accession perspective." Addressing
risks of instability in the Western Balkans "is manifestly
in our joint interest"; strengthening stability and democracy
in south-east Europe is also an investment in deep and sustainable
democracy in the EU's wider neighbourhood. The renewed consensus
on enlargement, agreed by the European Council, remains the basis
for the EU's enlargement policy.
6.9 Maintaining the credibility of the enlargement
process is crucial to its success, involving:
— ensuring
that reforms in enlargement countries meet the established criteria,
in particular the Copenhagen criteria;
— ensuring
the support of Member States and their citizens;
— fostering
understanding and informed debate on the impact of enlargement
policy, particularly at a time when the EU faces major challenges;
— solid
track records of reform implementation in the rule of law area;
— deeply
entrenched reforms, with the aim of irreversibility;
— showing
that the EU delivers on its commitments once the conditions are
met (the imminent accession of Croatia, the start of accession
negotiations with Montenegro in June and candidate status for
Serbia in March) encourages all the countries of the region to
step up their own preparations for eventual EU membership.
6.10 Positive results have also been achieved
in the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, where the High Level
Accession Dialogue has led to a sharper focus on reforms by the
authorities; in Albania, where dialogue between government and
opposition has allowed the political stalemate to be largely overcome
with the adoption of electoral and parliamentary reforms; in Iceland,
where accession negotiations are progressing well; and with Turkey,
which "has shown active support of the new positive agenda
announced last year and launched by the Commission in May 2012."
6.11 At the same time, reforms are still pending
in most countries. Human rights, good governance, the rule of
law, including the fight against corruption and organised crime,
administrative capacity, unemployment, economic reform and social
inclusion remain major challenges. There is often a need to take
more responsibility for reforms and to muster the necessary political
will to move forward. Strengthening freedom of expression and
independence of the media remains a major challenge. The accession
process remains at times negatively affected by bilateral issues.
6.12 Against this background, the Communication
assesses the current state of the EU's enlargement agenda. Based
on the accompanying in-depth country analyses,[34]
it takes stock of what these countries have achieved preparing
for membership, where they stand today, assesses their prospects
for the coming years and makes a number of recommendations. As
in previous years, a number of key challenges are given particular
attention, as is the support provided by the EU to the enlargement
countries, including through the Instrument for Pre-Accession
Assistance.
THE
GOVERNMENT'S
VIEW
6.13 In his Explanatory Memorandum of 18 October
2012, the Minister for Europe (Mr David Lidington) welcomes the
Commission's reports and judges them:
"to represent a fair and balanced assessment
of progress and the main challenges, setting out a credible and
useful basis for developing our approach to EU enlargement policy
over the coming year. While highlighting significant achievement
through 2012, the package recognises that in all cases there is
still much to do. The Strategy emphasises that the rule of law
is at the centre of the enlargement process, with an emphasis
on strict but fair conditionality, ensuring that enlargement remains
a firm, credible policy. "
6.14 The Minister then says that:
"The Government is committed to concluding accession
negotiations only when the UK is confident that a candidate country
is able to meet the political, economic and legal obligations
of membership. We therefore welcome the Commission's assessments
which are in line with these principles."
6.15 The Minister notes the Strategy and reports
provide the basis for in-depth discussion in the relevant Council
working groups, which will culminate in the adoption of conclusions
on EU enlargement at the 11 December General Affairs Council,
with any formal decisions to be endorsed at the 14 December European
Council:
"The Government aims to use the enlargement
process as a tool to promote reform and reconciliation. In that
light we have emphasised to countries the need to study the Commission's
assessments, and to make maximum progress before December. The
Government therefore intends to take a final view on the recommendations
of the Commission at a later date, in light of any further developments
achieved in each country and any further reporting from the Commission."
6.16 The Minister then helpfully summarises the
main conclusions and recommendations of the enlargement strategy,
and his comments thereon; and a brief summary for each country,
flagging the conclusions in the Strategy and the individual Country
Progress Report, and noting the Government's initial position
(which in this Report is set out in italics beneath each relevant
section; other emphasis is the Minister's).
ENLARGEMENT STRATEGY AND MAIN CHALLENGES 2012-2013
"The Strategy sets out an enlargement policy
that continues to be based on the principles of consolidation
of commitments, fair but rigorous conditionality, and good communication
with the public, alongside considerations of the EU's capacity
to integrate new members.
"It notes the recent difficulties in the Eurozone
and underlines the relevance of enlargement to consolidating reforms
that contribute to stability and growth across Europe. It underlines
the need to maintain the credibility of the enlargement process,
to ensure that enlargement countries meet the criteria before
membership, and to maintain the support of existing Member States
through the principle of progress based on each country's own
merits. And it notes that the recent progress of Croatia (towards
accession), Montenegro (opening accession negotiations) and Serbia
(granted candidate status) in 2012 shows that the EU delivers
once conditions are met. The report also notes other significant
progress in 2012, including with Turkey under its "positive
agenda" launched in May; good progress in Iceland's negotiations;
the High Level Accession Dialogue (HLAD) with Macedonia; and further
progress by Albania and Kosovo.
"Despite this, the Strategy acknowledges the
many reforms that remain major challenges in most countries, with
more responsibility and political will necessary to ensure momentum.
Strengthening the rule of law is identified as a continuing major
challenge and a central condition for countries moving towards
EU membership. Corruption in particular remains a serious problem
and the fight against organised crime remains an important priority
for many of the enlargement countries. The Strategy notes as
a source of serious concern negative developments in the area
of freedom of expression in a number of countries. The report
also highlights the bilateral issues that can limit progress,
for example Macedonia's name dispute with Greece, and expresses
regret at Turkey's refusal to deal with the Cypriot Presidency
in the latter half of 2012.
"The Strategy emphasises the need to:
a) "Put the rule of law and fundamental
rights at the core of enlargement policy;
b) "Ensure regional cooperation and reconciliation
in the Western Balkans;
c) "Address economic challenges through
strengthening the economic recovery in the enlargement countries
and ensuring strong economic governance;
d) "Maintain the momentum of the enlargement
process through innovative approaches including country-specific
approaches where needed, such as the HLAD for Macedonia; the positive
agenda with Turkey; the High-Level Dialogue on the Accession Process
(HLDAP) with BiH; and the Structured Dialogue on the Rule of Law
with Kosovo;
e) "Continue support for enlargement countries
through financial and technical support via the Instrument of
Pre-accession Assistance (IPA).
"The Strategy also advocates greater focus on
communicating the benefits of enlargement within the EU itself,
by providing further information and tangible evidence to enable
wider recognition of the benefits and the transformational power
of enlargement. The Strategy notes that in enlargement countries,
the benefits of the process can be demonstrated to citizens before
accession through participation in EU programmes for all enlargement
countries (including Kosovo), visa-free travel, and support to
civil society activities.
"The Government supports the membership aspirations
of any European country that shares our values and the right of
these countries to progress towards membership on the basis of
meeting the conditions for accession. The Government therefore
welcomes the Strategy's emphasis on ensuring momentum in the enlargement
process, and on ensuring the continued credibility of the process
through the increased focus on promoting the rule of law and tackling
difficult issues such as corruption early in the negotiating process
under the "new approach" endorsed by the Council in
December 2011. The front-loading of rule of law issues in Montenegro's
accession negotiations shows that the EU has learned lessons from
previous enlargement processes. The Government equally welcomes
the focus on regional co-operation and good economic governance
as essential elements of an evolving enlargement process."
COUNTRY SPECIFICS
"The Strategy looks to address the specific
challenges above, through:
— "The
accession of Croatia, expected on 1 July 2013, following ratification
of the Accession Treaty in each EU Member State;
— "progress
in Montenegro's accession negotiations, ensuring that Montenegro
develops a track record in the area of rule of law, under the
"new approach" that front-loads the rule of law chapters
(Chapter 23 and 24) in the negotiation process;
— "Recommending
(for a fourth time) that accession negotiations are opened with
Macedonia;
— "Opening
accession negotiations with Serbia once Serbia has achieved the
necessary degree of compliance with the membership criteria, in
particular the key priority of a visible and sustainable improvement
of relations with Kosovo;
— "Recommending
Albania be granted candidate status subject to further progress
on judicial and public administration reform and revision of parliamentary
rules of procedure, and taking into account commitment on organised
crime and corruption;
— "Urging
that the conditions be met for the entry into force of Bosnia
and Herzegovina's Stabilisation and Association Agreement (SAA)
and for the submission of a credible membership application, in
parallel with continued progress to strengthen its institutions
to ensure stable internal governance;
— "Concluding
that a Stabilisation and Association Agreement (SAA) can be concluded
with Kosovo, regardless of different Member State views on status.
Setting out plausible conditionality for the opening of negotiations
on an SAA;
— "Recommending
steps to bring fresh dynamism to Turkey's accession process including
through technical working groups established under the 'positive
agenda', closer EU/Turkey foreign policy dialogue, and steps towards
visa liberalisation in return for Turkey's signature of the EU
Readmission Agreement;
— "Continuing
progress in Iceland's accession negotiations and enhancing EU
communication with the Icelandic public to inform the domestic
debate."
CROATIA[35]
MONTENEGRO
STRATEGY
REPORT
"The
Commission notes that the opening of accession negotiations with
Montenegro in June 2012 reflected Montenegro's continued progress
on key reforms, and that Montenegro continues to sufficiently
meet the political criteria for membership of the EU. Montenegro
continues to meet its obligations under the Stabilisation and
Association Agreement and has made good progress in the acquis
chapters covering public procurement, transport policy, statistics
and science and research. Some further progress has been made
towards a functioning market economy.
"The Commission notes that Montenegro needs
to invest further effort to develop a track record in the area
of the rule of law, particularly as regards: organised crime and
corruption; seeing through constitutional changes to safeguard
judicial independence; improvements to the judiciary's accountability;
and ensuring sufficient administrative capacity to implement the
EU acquis. Further effort is needed on the acquis chapters
covering free movement of workers and capital, company law, food
safety, veterinary and phytosanitary policy, taxation, enterprise
and industrial policy, environment and climate change and financial
and budgetary provisions. As regards progress towards a functioning
market economy, the restructuring of the metal industry, liquidity
problems, the weak labour market and rule of law need to be tackled.
"In line with
the new approach to enlargement, screening has already taken place
for Chapter 23 (Judiciary and Fundamental Rights) and Chapter
24 (Justice, Freedom and Security). Screening for other chapters
has begun and is expected to conclude in summer 2013.
MONTENEGRO
PROGRESS REPORT
"The report provides an in depth assessment
of Montenegro's progress against the criteria. Montenegro has
continued to make progress against the POLITICAL
CRITERIA but has more to do in
some areas:
— "Democracy
and the rule of law: the revised electoral law has been put
into practice and the capacity of parliament and its transparency
have been further improved. Government policy-making has further
improved but administrative capacity for the EU integration process
remains to be substantially strengthened. Public administration
reform has continued. Progress on the judiciary has been made
through publication of court rulings and reduction of backlogs
but constitutional reform to ensure judicial independence is still
outstanding and further efforts to ensure merit-based appointments
and progression are needed. Corruption remains a concern, as
although implementation of new legislation is progressing, a track
record of investigations, prosecution and convictions, including
at high levels, is needed.
— "Human
rights and protection of minorities: the administrative and
legal framework for civil and political rights and its enforcement
have improved. Ombudsman powers to act against ill-treatment
need to be enhanced and prison conditions improved. Old cases
of violence against journalists still require attention. The
authorities have demonstrated a more positive attitude to social
and economic rights but further capacity to enforce them is needed.
A strategy for Roma, Ashkali and Egyptian population has contributed
to protection of minority and cultural rights but efforts to ensure
their social inclusion are needed.
— "Regional
issues and international obligations: Montenegro continues
to meet its obligations under the Stabilisation and Association
Process as regards cooperation with the International Criminal
Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia and regional cooperation.
It maintains broadly good relations with neighbours though some
bilateral issues, mainly regarding border demarcation, remain
unaddressed.
"As regards the ECONOMIC
CRITERIA, the economy is in the
process of recovery but the performance of the construction and
industrial sectors is weak. Though macroeconomic stability has
been broadly maintained, risks and uncertainties persist due to
the high reliance on external financing and the indebtedness of
the aluminium plant. Privatisation in a number of sectors has
resumed after a two-year pause and restructuring of network industries
is opening up markets. Despite some improvements in the administration
for setting up businesses, difficulties in obtaining licences
and credit, and weaknesses in civil enforcement and corruption
negatively affect the business environment. The financial sector
needs strengthening and although deposits are flowing back to
banks, lending and capital are declining. Efforts have been made
to address shortcomings in human and physical capital though further
investment is needed. State subsidies remain limited but guarantees
are a risk to public finances.
"As regards Montenegro's ABILITY
TO TAKE
ON THE
OBLIGATIONS OF
MEMBERSHIP, preparations
are moderately or well advanced for the majority of chapters.
Alignment is less well
advanced and requires further effort on the chapters covering
free movement
for workers, agriculture and rural development, food safety, veterinary
and phytosanitary policy, fisheries, energy, taxation, enterprise
and industrial policy, trans-European networks, environment and
climate change, financial control and financial and budgetary
provisions. There has been progress on external borders although
security of the blue border
and the border with Kosovo remains to be substantially strengthened.
"The Government
agrees with the Commission's assessment of areas for further improvement
and looks forward to detailed discussions
regarding rule of law when chapters 23 and 24 are tackled early
in the negotiations process. The Government is pleased to be
supporting Montenegro's efforts on rule of law reform, for example
through advice under EU twinning.
MACEDONIA
STRATEGY
REPORT
"The Commission notes that Macedonia (referred
to throughout the report, as in all EU contexts, as fYRoM) continues
to sufficiently meet the political criteria and that the High-Level
Accession Dialogue has accelerated reforms, leading to substantial
progress in key policy areas. These include improving the legislative
framework for elections, decriminalisation of defamation and public
administration, efficiency drives within the judiciary and a review
of the Ohrid Framework Agreement.
"However, the Commission notes that the reform
momentum needs to be sustained in all areas, in particular to
ensure implementation, and that continued focus is needed on rule
of law, freedom of expression, inter-ethnic relations, judicial
independence and impartiality and tackling corruption. Maintaining
good neighbourly relations, including resolving the name dispute
with Greece, remains essential.
"The Commission recommends for a fourth time
that accession negotiations be opened for Macedonia, stating that
this would not only consolidate reforms and strengthen interethnic
relations but also have a positive effect on the wider region.
The Commission notes its readiness to present without delay a
draft negotiating framework taking into account the need to solve
the name issue at an early stage. The Commission also maintains
its proposal of moving to the second stage of Macedonia's SAA.
MACEDONIA
PROGRESS REPORT
"The report provides an in depth assessment
of Macedonia's progress against the criteria. Macedonia continues
to sufficiently meet the POLITICAL
CRITERIA and the High Level Accession
Dialogue has delivered good progress across a range of areas,
although it notes that still several areas require further attention:
— "Democracy
and the rule of law. Political dialogue has been maintained,
with parliamentary support for the accession process. Draft electoral
reform proposals are being considered, but the government needs
to implement fully OSCE/ODIHR recommendations. A mature government
response to inter-ethnic incidents must be built on to strengthen
inter-ethnic relations and promote reconciliation. Some steps
to reform public administration have been taken, but additional
efforts are needed to guarantee the transparency and accountability
of public administration, including respect for merit-based recruitment
and equitable representation. Further efforts to reform the judiciary
are required, including to guarantee its independence and impartiality.
The legislative framework for tackling corruption and organised
crime is in place, but a track record of prosecutions and convictions
has yet to be established.
— "Human
rights and protection of minorities. There has been progress
on ratification of international human rights instruments. Civil
and political rights are broadly respected although further work
on prison reform is needed. There are widespread concerns about
lack of pluralism and self-censorship in the media. Protection
of women's and children's rights saw some progress, although in
general there is a need for better protection of vulnerable groups
e.g. those with disabilities or the LGBT community. Concrete
follow up to the review of the Ohrid Framework Agreement will
be essential to further improving inter-ethnic relations, which
remain of concern.
— "Regional
issues and international obligations. Macedonia cooperates
fully with the ICTY, takes an active part in regional initiatives
and overall has constructive bilateral relationships with neighbouring
states. The relationship with Greece, while good in the economic
and tourism spheres, is marred by the name dispute. On this,
talks should be pursued under the auspices of the UN with renewed
vigour, and inflammatory actions and statements should be avoided.
There is also a need for greater dialogue with Bulgaria.
— "Macedonia
is well advanced in meeting the ECONOMIC
CRITERIA and has maintained macro-economic
stability. However there are areas of concern, including around
unemployment, low quality of spending decisions and poor overall
financial management.
— "As
regards Macedonia's ABILITY TO
TAKE ON
THE OBLIGATIONS
OF MEMBERSHIP,
there is good alignment in a number of areas, including free movement
of goods, competition policy and food safety. However in several
other areas, such as the environment, social policy and coordination
of structural instruments, the degree of alignment is weaker.
"The Government welcomes the Commission's assessment
of Macedonia's progress, particularly that the High Level Accession
Dialogue has spurred good progress in several areas. The Government
has this year targeted bilateral programme support at the areas
covered by the High Level Accession Dialogue. While there is
a need for continued focus, for example on rule of law and freedom
of expression, the Government agrees with the Commission's recommendation
that accession negotiations should be opened with Macedonia."
SERBIA
STRATEGY
REPORT
"The Commission notes that the stability and
functioning of institutions was maintained following elections
in 2012 and that despite the overall slowdown of legislative activity
the elections
caused, some progress was made in most areas.
"In particular,
Serbia maintained full cooperation with the International Criminal
Tribunal for the Former Yugoslavia, continued to meet its obligations
under the Interim Agreement/Stabilisation and Association Agreement,
made good progress on the acquis chapters covering company
law, intellectual property rights, statistics
and custom union, and achieved some results in the dialogue with
Kosovo.
"However, the Commission notes that Serbia needs
to pay particular attention to the rule of law (notably the judiciary),
the rights of vulnerable groups, the independence of institutions
such as the central bank, strengthening relations with neighbours
and, particularly, the key priority of taking steps towards a
visible and sustainable improvement of relations with Kosovo (see
below). The acquis chapters covering judiciary and fundamental
rights, justice, freedom and security, agriculture and rural development,
environment and climate change and financial control require further
effort and significant restructuring is needed to move towards
a functioning market economy.
"The Commission will present a report on the
opening of accession negotiations when it assesses Serbia has
achieved the necessary degree of compliance with the membership
criteria, in particular, the key priority of steps towards a visible
and sustainable improvement in relations with Kosovo. The Commission
calls on Serbia to re-engage in the EU-facilitated dialogue with
Kosovo, implement agreements already reached in that forum, and
to address the problems in northern Kosovo while respecting Kosovo's
territorial integrity. The Commission underlines that an improvement
in relations is needed in order to enable both countries to make
progress towards the EU, while avoiding that either can block
the other.
SERBIA
PROGRESS REPORT
"The report provides an in depth assessment
of Serbia's progress against the criteria. Serbia has made progress
against some aspects of the POLITICAL
CRITERIA but not others:
"Democracy and the rule of law. Serbia
held free, fair and peaceful elections and the new government
has committed to pursuing EU integration. The Ombudsman Offices
and the State Audit Institution have improved their capacities.
However, many areas of weakness are identified including: the
government's use of urgent measures to change the law governing
the central bank; ministries disregarding or challenging the recommendations
of independent regulatory bodies; an inconsistent approach to
consulting stakeholders and monitoring the implementation of legislation;
and little progress in the areas of public administration reform,
judiciary and anti-corruption.
"Human rights and protection of minorities.
The legislative framework is in place and some positive steps
have been taken to improve its implementation and the situation
of minorities. Further efforts are needed to tackle discrimination,
improve social dialogue, speed up the implementation of the media
strategy and support the socio-economic development of a number
of regions.
"Regional issues and international obligations.
Serbia generally complies with its international obligations,
has broadly good relations with neighbours and has continued to
cooperate with the International Criminal Tribunal for the former
Yugoslavia, though it must intensify efforts to bring to justice
networks which supported fugitives. However, further effort is
needed to meet the key priority of taking steps towards a visible
and sustainable improvement in relations with Kosovo. Though
new results were achieved in the EU-facilitated dialogue with
Kosovo over the last year, implementation of agreements was delayed
and uneven. The new government has recently taken steps towards
improving implementation by revising its interpretation of the
agreement on Kosovo's participation in regional fora and signing
the protocol on Integrated Border/Boundary Management, but more
effort is needed. The Commission underlines that fulfilment of
the key priority on Kosovo is key to moving to the next phase
of Serbia's EU integration. Serbia needs to continue to make
a positive and constructive contribution to regional cooperation
and reconciliation, with particular reference to Bosnia and Herzegovina.
"As regards the ECONOMIC
CRITERIA, reforms have broadly
stalled due to the election period. Economic recovery is fragile
(Serbia's economy is contracting) and significant trade and current
account deficits need tackling. Government debt went above the
legally binding limit in 2011 and continued to increase in 2012.
Unemployment and public sector reform are major challenges and
inflation has been volatile. Price liberalisation and privatisation
have stalled. Although some steps have been taken to improve
the business environment, red tape, legal unpredictability, corruption
and unclear property rights remain problematic. The banking sector
remained well-capitalised and liquid but risks remain. Trade
integration with the EU remained high but the state continues
to significantly influence competitiveness through aid.
"As regards Serbia's ABILITY
TO TAKE
ON THE
OBLIGATIONS OF
MEMBERSHIP, preparations are moderately
advanced for many chapters. Alignment is less well advanced and
requires further effort on the chapters covering: judiciary and
fundamental rights, justice, freedom and security, environment
and climate change, agriculture and rural development, financial
control and financial and budgetary provisions."
"The Government agrees with the Commission's
assessment of Serbia's progress, in particular that the rule of
law requires further strengthening and that progress is required
on domestic reform priorities. The Government also welcomes the
reference to Serbia's regional cooperation with other neighbouring
countries, particularly as a basis for improved relations with
Bosnia and Herzegovina. The Government continues to support fully
the key priority of visible and sustainable improvement in relations
with Kosovo and underlines that it is important that Serbia makes
progress on this, including addressing the problems in northern
Kosovo, as an essential pre-requisite for the next step of accession
negotiations."
ALBANIA
STRATEGY
REPORT
"The Commission notes that the November 2011
agreement which ended a long political stalemate has improved
political dialogue and allowed for progress in core reforms.
The Commission assesses Albania's progress against the twelve
key priorities set for opening accession negotiations in the Commission's
2010 Opinion. The Commission assesses that Albania has met four
of these key priorities, concerning the proper functioning of
parliament, adoption of laws requiring a reinforced majority,
the appointment of the Ombudsman and electoral reform. Significant
steps are noted, such as the lifting of immunities for high-level
officials and judges and the seizure of criminal assets. The
Commission assesses that Albania has also made progress towards
meeting the key priorities on public administration reform, the
treatment of detainees, justice reform, property reform and anti-discrimination
policies, inter alia.
"However, the Commission notes that further
progress is required to meet the remaining key priorities, notably
concrete steps to tackle corruption, reform of the judiciary to
ensure its independence, completion of public administration reform,
revision of the parliamentary rules of procedure and implementation
of human rights commitments including protection of Roma rights.
The Commission stresses the need to strengthen further democratic
institutions and maintain momentum on reforms, especially around
rule of law. Particular emphasis is placed on implementation.
"The Commission recommends that the Council
should grant Albania candidate status, subject to completion of
specified measures in judicial and public administration reform
and revision of the parliamentary rules of procedure. The Commission
will report to the Council as soon as the necessary progress has
been made. The Commission, in its report, will also take into
account the commitment demonstrated by Albania in tackling corruption
and organised crime.
"The Commission also sets out what further progress
is needed by Albania before it can recommend opening accessions.
It highlights the need to see sustained implementation of commitments
already undertaken and completion of the remaining key priorities.
Parliamentary elections to be held in 2013 are highlighted as
an important test of the new electoral law, with continued cross-party
commitment to reform and successful elections pre-conditions for
any recommendation to open accession negotiations.
ALBANIA
PROGRESS REPORT
"The report provides an in depth assessment
of Albania's progress against the criteria. Albania has made
progress against some aspects of the POLITICAL
CRITERIA but in others further
progress is required:
— "Democracy
and the rule of law. Political dialogue since the November
2011 political agreement has improved, allowing for progress in
key reforms such as amending the electoral code, appointing an
Ombudsman, and the adoption of most pending laws requiring a reinforced
majority, as well as the general improvement in the functioning
of Parliament. Revised parliamentary rules of procedure need
to be adopted. The Presidential elections were conducted in line
with the Constitution but the political process could have been
more inclusive. There was some progress in the work of the government,
including coordinating the EU integration process but improvements
are needed in the planning process for aligning with the acquis
and in decentralisation. The adoption of Laws on Administrative
Courts and appointment of the Ombudsman have brought progress
in public administration reform, but amendments to the Civil Service
Law must be adopted and the professionalism and accountability
of the civil service need to be improved. The judicial reform
strategy has begun to be implemented but important legislation
enhancing the independence of the judiciary must be finalised,
and court organisation and case backlogs continue to cause concern.
Despite some progress in tackling corruption, there is no track
record of convictions at all levels and corruption continues to
be a serious problem.
— "Human
rights and protection of minorities. There has been progress
in improving the treatment of detainees and conditions of detention.
Progress in protecting the rights of women, children and Roma
has been uneven. Discrimination against vulnerable groups such
as the LGBT and Roma remains a problem.
— "Regional
issues and international obligations. Albania currently chairs
the Council of Europe, takes an active part in regional initiatives
and acts as a constructive partner in the region, with good bilateral
relationships with neighbouring states.
"As regards the ECONOMIC
CRITERIA, Albania has maintained
macroeconomic stability and monetary policy has kept inflation
stable. However government debt is high and rising, and essential
structural reforms (e.g. in tax administration) are missing.
"As regards Albania's ABILITY
TO TAKE
ON THE
OBLIGATIONS OF
MEMBERSHIP, there has been progress
in a number of areas, including free movement of goods, consumer
and health protection and enterprise and industrial policy. However
in several other areas, such as public procurement, intellectual
property law and social policy, there has been little progress.
"The Government welcomes the Commission's assessment
of Albania's progress and agrees that, while progress has been
made, further steps are required. The Government also agrees
that there must be greater efforts around implementation. The
Government looks forward to the further report that the Commission
will provide when the necessary progress has been made and will
take a final decision on Albania's readiness for candidate status
once that report has issued.
"The Government will continue to urge Albania
to make the necessary progress and support these efforts, including
through project work in support of the rule of law".
BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA
STRATEGY
REPORT
"The Commission notes that there has been limited
progress in meeting EU criteria in this period. The pace of reform
has been uneven. The formation of a state-level government and
the adoption in February of two EU-related laws, on State Aid
and the Census, were positive developments. However, the Commission
highlights that Bosnia and Herzegovina remains in breach of the
Interim Agreement pending entry into force of the Stabilisation
and Association Agreement (SAA). The Strategy notes also that
a High Level Dialogue on the Accession Process was held in June,
at which key representatives of Bosnia and Herzegovina agreed
a road map for the entry into force of the SAA.
"The Commission expresses concern that there
has been little progress in improving the effectiveness of institutional
structures, and calls for the adoption of an effective co-ordination
mechanism as a priority, to allow the country to speak with one
voice on EU matters. The Commission calls also for a credible
process to be put in place to amend the Constitution in line with
the ECtHR decision on the Sejdic-Finci case.
"The Commission notes that the enhancement of
the European Union Special Representative's role has allowed the
EU to take the lead in a number of areas. The EU has opened offices
in Brcko (where the Office of the High Representative has suspended
supervision and closed its office) and in Mostar, and strengthened
its presence in Banja Luka.
BOSNIA
AND HERZEGOVINA
PROGRESS REPORT
"The report provides an in depth assessment
of Bosnia and Herzegovina's progress against the criteria.
"A High Level Dialogue on the Accession Process
was launched in Brussels in June, with Bosnian political leaders
agreeing a roadmap on EU integration to enable the entry into
force of the SAA and the submission of a credible membership application.
The first deadline in the roadmap was not met.
"Bosnia and Herzegovina has made limited progress
against the POLITICAL CRITERIA:
— "Democracy
and the rule of law. Delays in setting up the State-level
Council of Ministers and disagreements among the parties of the
governing coalition hampered legislative activities. There has
been little progress on improving the effectiveness of institutional
structures at all levels of government and policy-making continues
to be hampered by poor co-ordination. There was limited progress
on judicial reform, although there was constructive participation
in the Structured Dialogue on Justice. Corruption remains prevalent.
Some political representatives have questioned Bosnia and Herzegovina's
capacity to function as a country and are calling for an Entity-level
EU agenda separate from the Bosnia and Herzegovina state. Bosnia
and Herzegovina needs an effective coordination mechanism so that
the country can speak with one voice on EU matters.
— "Human
rights and protection of minorities. Civil and political
rights are broadly respected, along with protection of minorities.
Despite an undertaking at the High Level Dialogue in June, political
leaders have not yet established a credible process for harmonising
the Constitution with the ECHR decision of December 2009 on Sejdic-Finci,
so as to eliminate discrimination against citizens on grounds
of their ethnicity.
— "Regional
issues and international obligations. There has been good
progress on refugees. Cooperation with the ICTY has remained
satisfactory. Outstanding issues, including border, trade and
transit issues need to be addressed as a matter of urgency in
view of Croatia's accession.
"As regards the ECONOMIC
CRITERIA, Bosnia and Herzegovina
has made little further progress towards a functioning market
economy. The business environment is affected by administrative
inefficiencies and the weak rule of law. Unemployment remains
high. Progress in implementing reforms is slow, and delays in
adopting the State-level budget and the absence of a medium-term
fiscal framework have undermined the sustainability of public
finances.
"Bosnia and Herzegovina has made limited progress
towards the ABILITY TO
TAKE ON
THE OBLIGATIONS
OF MEMBERSHIP.
There have been positive steps on border management, visa liberalisation
and competition. However in other areas there has been little
or no progress. The country remains in breach of the Interim
Agreement. The Commission calls for the establishment of an EU
co-ordination mechanism as a priority.
"The Government welcomes the Commission's assessment.
The Government agrees that progress on key reforms has been uneven
and that, following government formation and progress on two areas
of legislation early in the year, further progress has been limited.
The Government remains committed to Bosnia and Herzegovina's
European perspective and underlines that Bosnia and Herzegovina
can only make progress towards the EU as a single, sovereign state.
The Government agrees that early progress on Sejdic-Finci is
critical and urges early resolution of the current political stalemate
to allow the SAA to come into force. Early progress on the EU
coordination mechanism is also necessary, as is urgent action
to prepare for the impact of Croatia's EU accession. The Government
will continue to support Bosnia and Herzegovina in these efforts
including through programme activity."
KOSOVO
STRATEGY
REPORT
"The Commission has adopted a Communication
on a Feasibility Study on Kosovo's readiness to open negotiations
on a Stabilisation and Association Agreement (SAA) with Kosovo.
It confirms that an SAA can be concluded with Kosovo, even where
EU Member States have differing views on status.
"The Commission will propose negotiating directives
for Kosovo once further progress has been made on four specific
short term priorities in the areas of rule of law, public administration,
protection of minorities and trade.
"The Commission also notes that a visible and
sustainable improvement in relations between Kosovo and Serbia
is important and urges progress on addressing the problems in
northern Kosovo while respecting the needs of the local population.
FEASIBILITY
STUDY
"The Communication on the Feasibility Study
assesses whether Kosovo is ready to negotiate and subsequently
implement an SAA and identifies priority issues to be addressed
before negotiations can start. Before negotiations can be concluded,
progress will be needed on Rule of Law; Judiciary; Public Administration;
Electoral Reform and the Assembly; Human and fundamental rights;
Protection of minorities; Trade and internal market issues; and
Phytosanitary and veterinary issues.
"On POLITICAL
ISSUES, the functioning of democratic
institutions and the respect for the rule of law have been consolidated.
The necessary institutions have been established. Kosovo continues
to face major challenges on the rule of law including judicial
reform and corruption. Kosovo needs to work closely with the
EULEX Rule of Law mission. There remains work to be done on public
administration. To meet its obligations under an SAA, Kosovo
needs to promote a multi-ethnic Kosovo, by creating conditions
for Kosovo Serbs to feel part of Kosovo's future and to facilitate
return for persons wishing to do so. The Commission also expects
that Kosovo will continue to implement decentralisation, notably
in the new municipalities and thereby help the integration of
Kosovo Serbs.
"On ECONOMIC
ISSUES, Kosovo has implemented
the initial essential reforms towards establishing a fully functioning
market economy. This is sufficient to establish contractual relations
with the EU.
"Kosovo is READY
TO OPEN
NEGOTIATIONS ON
AN SAA once further progress has
been made on:
— "Rule
of law, particularly on organised crime and corruption, including
launching investigations and ensuring continuous good cooperation
with EULEX;
— "Public
administration;
— "Protection
of minorities, including ensuring the existence of a body enabling
direct consultation on the promotion and protection of religious
and cultural heritage with religious communities, notably the
Serbian Orthodox Church;
— "trade,
including putting in place a mechanism to lead and coordinate
negotiations.
"Kosovo will be ready to assume the obligations
of an SAA once the closing benchmarks of such a negotiation have
been met, on: Rule of Law; Judiciary; Public Administration; Electoral
Reform and the Assembly; Human and fundamental rights; Protection
of minorities; Trade and internal market issues; and Phytosanitary
and veterinary issues.
"The Government remains fully committed to Kosovo's
EU perspective and supports the negotiation of an SAA once the
above four conditions have been met. The Government agrees with
the focus of opening conditionality and supports the message that
Kosovo needs to demonstrate its commitment to the overall EU reform
agenda. Implementation of legislation will be key. The Government
will continue to support reform in Kosovo and outreach to ethnic
minorities through use of programme funds. DfID will end its Kosovo
programme in 2012."
TURKEY
STRATEGY
REPORT
"The Strategy notes the continuing strategic
importance of Turkey as a regional partner, and restates the EU's
commitment to an active and credible accession process. Overall,
the Strategy makes clear that Turkey continues to improve its
ability to take on the obligations of membership but regrets that
it has not been possible to open a new negotiating Chapter for
two years, and notes with concern Turkey's refusal to cooperate
with the Cypriot Presidency of the EU. The Strategy re-emphasises
the benefits to both the EU and Turkey of closer economic and
political links. It positively notes Turkey's engagement with
the positive agenda, which was launched in May 2012 with the aim
of supporting and reinvigorating the formal accession negotiation
process. It notes that progress has been made on JHA and energy,
and on foreign policy issues through the enhanced EU/Turkey political
dialogue. The Strategy further commends Turkey's current robust
economic growth and dynamism, which it attributes to prudent macro-economic
policies and reforms. It notes that some further work needs to
be done to sustain progress.
"The Strategy criticises a negative trend on
human rights, noting concerns regarding the respect of fundamental
rights, especially freedom of expression and the Kurdish issue.
However, it recognises progress on judicial reform, through the
third judicial reform package, and commends the open and consultative
constitutional reform process.
"The Strategy repeats its encouragement of Turkey
to increase its commitment to talks to find a comprehensive settlement
to the Cyprus problem and notes that Turkey must fully implement
the Additional Ankara Protocol as a key step towards good neighbourly
relations.
TURKEY
PROGRESS REPORT
"The progress report is less positive overall
than recent previous reports. It recognises a number of steps
forward, while noting several areas where further work is needed.
The report notes the continuing strategic importance of Turkey
as a regional partner, and restates the EU's commitment to an
active and credible accession process.
"The Commission flags the successes of the positive
agenda and enhanced EU/Turkey political dialogue. All eight working
groups envisaged under the positive agenda have been established,
and six have had their first meeting. The working groups aim
to encourage alignment with the acquis. An agreement was
reached between the Commission and Council on a gradual and long-term
perspective to visa liberalisation in Turkey, conditional on Turkey's
signing of the EU Readmission Agreement. The Commission and Turkey
also decided to enhance their cooperation on energy issues. The
enhanced EU/Turkey political dialogue delivered significant foreign
policy successes and the report notes that Turkey is increasingly
an active and influential partner.
"On Cyprus, the report commends Turkey's continued
support for settlement negotiations and notes the need to remain
focused on a comprehensive UN-administered solution. The report
regrets Turkey's "freeze" of relations with the Cyprus
Presidency and notes that Turkey must fully implement the Additional
Ankara Protocol as a key step towards good neighbourly relations.
It calls on Turkey to respect Cyprus' Exclusive Economic Zone.
"The report highlights the strength of the Turkish
economy, with strong growth (8.5% in 2011) and falling unemployment
(down to 9.8% in 2011). However, the report strikes a note of
caution; highlighting Turkey's slowing economic growth, due to
weaker domestic demand. It notes a growth in Turkey's current
account deficit and concerns regarding increasing inflation, and
notes that Turkey's fiscal and monetary policy mix proved relatively
successful in the aftermath of the global economic crisis. The
Commission judges that the EU/Turkey Customs Union continues to
boost trade. Turkey is the EU's sixth biggest trading partner,
while the EU is Turkey's biggest.
"The report highlights limited progress on human
rights and notes that "concerns are growing regarding Turkey's
lack of substantial progress towards fully meeting the political
criteria". The report highlights persistent concerns over
the rights of the defence, lengthy pre-trial detention and excessively
long and catch-all indictments, especially in the alleged coup
plot trials, Ergenekon and Sledgehammer. It calls for judicial
proceedings to be speeded up.
"The report notes that the Kurdish issue remains
a key challenge for Turkey's democracy and condemns all PKK terrorist
attacks. It notes the continuing debate on cultural rights and
regrets that — after much political debate — concrete
progress was not made on the Kurdish issue. The report is particularly
critical on freedom of expression, stating that the increasing
incidence of violations raises serious concerns, and media and
internet freedoms continue to be restricted in practice. It also
notes a negative trend on torture and ill-treatment, prison conditions
and impunity. The report notes that freedom of worship continues
to be generally respected but calls for more support and protection
for minority communities.
"However, the report commends Turkey's positive
steps towards a new constitution through a democratic and participatory
process, and welcomes the inter-party Conciliation Committee.
The Commission welcomes progress on judicial reform, primarily
through the third judicial reform package and the Ministry of
Justice's Human Rights Action Plan. It calls upon Turkey to make
swift progress on the fourth judicial reform package. The Commission
further welcomes several important pieces of legislation adopted
in Parliament over the last 12 months, including laws preventing
violence against women, and the establishment of an Ombudsman
Institution and a national human rights institution. The report
broadly endorses the consolidation of civilian oversight of security
forces.
"On justice, freedom, and security, the report
notes limited progress on migration, asylum, visa policy and judicial
cooperation in civil and criminal matters. It notes that some
progress has been made in the area of cooperation in the field
of drugs and uneven progress on police cooperation and the fight
against organised crime. On energy, the report notes some progress
on security of supply; on the gas and electricity internal energy
market; and on renewable energy. It notes uneven progress on
nuclear safety and radiation protection, and good progress on
energy efficiency.
"While the tone is more negative than last year,
the progress report is a relatively balanced assessment of Turkey's
progress and rightly underlines the strategic importance of Turkey's
EU accession process. The Government welcomes the Commission's
emphasis on injecting new momentum into the accession process,
including efforts under the "positive agenda" to promote
political reforms, alignment with the acquis, dialogue
on foreign policy, visas, mobility and migration, trade, energy,
counter-terrorism, and participation in Community programmes.
We agree with Turkish
Europe Minister Egemen Bai that the positive agenda is a 'diplomatic
success' while noting that it is a complement to the accession
process, not a substitute.
"In the report, the Commission has signalled
the need for Turkey to make further progress on issues such as
freedom of expression. The Turkish Government has also recognised
the need to make progress and has committed to making further
reforms. We welcome the third judicial reform package and urge
Turkey to implement it fully.
"We look forward to the fourth judicial reform
package, and the completion of the constitutional reform process
in 2013. The Government will continue to work closely with Turkey
on these issues. Revitalising the EU accession process would
provide added impetus for reform, building on the significant
progress achieved over the past decade.
"The Government welcomes the Commission's view
that Turkey needs to take further steps to combat irregular migration
and organised immigration crime. The Government continues to
work closely with Turkey on these matters and looks forward to
continued cooperation. The Government welcomes the efforts made
by Turkey in dealing with the increased irregular migration flow
from Syria, and in particular notes that Turkey has successfully
housed a vast number of Syrian refugees in its border regions.
"The Government agrees that Turkey is important
for the EU's security and diversity of energy supply. We support
Turkey and the EU's objective for Turkey to become a regional
energy hub and an energy transit corridor to the EU. We were
pleased to note the signing of an Inter-Governmental Agreement
between Turkey and Azerbaijan regarding the transport of Azeri
gas to the EU via Turkey in June 2012, and we look forward to
progress being made towards a commercial decision regarding the
proposed Trans-Anatolian pipeline (TANAP) in 2013."
ICELAND
STRATEGY
REPORT
"The Strategy states that accession negotiations
are progressing well with 18 (of 35) chapters opened and ten closed,
and that Iceland continues to fully meet the POLITICAL
CRITERIA. It notes that Iceland
has already achieved a good level of alignment with the EU acquis,
due to its membership of the European Economic Area (EEA). Iceland's
track record in implementing its EEA obligations remains largely
satisfactory, notwithstanding some shortfalls in areas such as
free movement of capital and financial services. It notes that
the EFTA Surveillance Authority (ESA) initiated proceedings against
Iceland at the EFTA Court over the Icesave case. The strategy
observes that while EU accession remains an issue of lively public
debate in Iceland, its accession is a matter of mutual benefit,
with growing common interests, including in renewable energy,
climate change and with regard to the EU's Arctic policy.
ICELAND
PROGRESS REPORT
"The report outlines that Iceland largely meets
the ECONOMIC CRITERIA,
in that it operates a functioning market economy. The report
concludes that the work undertaken by the Icelandic government
after the 2008 crisis has succeeded in re-establishing macro-economic
stability and stronger than expected growth in Iceland. The report
does, however, highlight that financial sector weaknesses and
capital movement restrictions persist.
"The report states that Iceland's ABILITY
TO MEET
THE OBLIGATIONS
OF MEMBERSHIP
remains good, in particular due to Iceland's participation in
the EEA. It does, however, flag that challenges remain, particularly
in financial services, food safety and free movement of capital.
The report notes that the EFTA Court is currently considering
the Icesave case, where the Commission has intervened in support
of the ESA's position.
"With regard to the Fisheries Chapter, the report
notes that Iceland continues to apply a fisheries management system
which has similar objectives to those pursued in the EU. The
report also notes the failure to reach agreement on the management
of North Atlantic mackerel stocks for 2012 between the coastal
states involved: while the mackerel issue itself is not part of
the accession process, the failure to find a solution has caused
concern amongst Member States. In addition, the report notes
that notwithstanding a high level of alignment with the EU acquis,
full compliance remains to be achieved in a number of important
areas including the lack of protection of whales.
"The Government welcomes the Commission's assessment
of Iceland's progress and its reiteration of the benefit of Iceland's
accession to the EU once remaining challenges have been addressed
through the negotiation process. With regard to the Financial
Services chapter, as it is an issue of EEA compliance, the Government
will expect irreversible progress to have been made towards resolving
the Icesave issue before the chapter can be closed. The Government
shares the Commission's confidence that the EU will be able to
present a package for the negotiations which takes into account
Iceland's specificities while safeguarding the principles and
acquis of the EU, allowing in due course for a fully informed
decision by the Icelandic people."
CONCLUSION
6.17 The Minister talks of ensuring the continued
credibility of the process through increased focus on promoting
the rule of law and tackling difficult issues such as corruption
early in the negotiating process, as endorsed by the Council in
December 2011, and says that this "new approach… [of]
front-loading of rule of law issues in Montenegro's accession
negotiations shows that the EU has learned lessons from previous
enlargement processes." In our separate Report on the last
stages of Croatia's accession, we note that this suggests that
the much-vaunted improvements to this crucial part of the process
that were introduced to Croatia's accession process in response
to the manifest failings before and after Bulgaria and Romania's
accession, have been found wanting: otherwise, why the need to
change them again so soon for future accessions? We accordingly
consider this chapter of our Report to be relevant to the forthcoming
Second Reading Debate on the Bill to ratify Croatia's accession
treaty.
6.18 The Minister also says that Government plans
to use the enlargement process as a tool to promote reform and
reconciliation; has accordingly emphasised that countries need
to study the Commission's assessments, and to make maximum progress
before December; and therefore "intends to take a final view
on the recommendations of the Commission at a later date, in light
of any further developments achieved in each country and any further
reporting from the Commission." We presume that the Minister
is referring specifically to recommendations that: accession
negotiations are opened with Macedonia; Albania be granted candidate
status subject to further progress on judicial and public administration
reform and revision of parliamentary rules of procedure, and taking
into account commitment on organised crime and corruption; there
are "steps to bring fresh dynamism to Turkey's accession
process" including through technical working groups established
under the "positive agenda", closer EU/Turkey foreign
policy dialogue, and steps towards visa liberalisation in return
for Turkey's signature of the EU Readmission Agreement; and negotiations
are opened on an SAA with Kosovo. There are also areas in which
the Commission is pressing Montenegro, Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina
to make further progress.
6.19 We would like the Minister to update the
Committee on his position on all these issues prior to the December
GAC. In the meantime we shall retain the documents under scrutiny.
31 Under UNSCR 1244/99. Back
32
Bill to make provision consequential on the treaty concerning
the accession of the Republic of Croatia to the European Union,
signed at Brussels on 9 December 2011, and provision consequential
on the Protocol on the concerns of the Irish people on the Treaty
of Lisbon, adopted at Brussels on 16 May 2012; and to make provision
about the entitlement of nationals of the Republic of Croatia
to enter or reside in the United Kingdom as workers. See http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201213/cmagenda/ob121018.htm. Back
33
See HC 86-xvii (2012-13). Back
34
Summaries and conclusions of the country reports are included
as an annex to the present Communication. Back
35
See our separate Report on Croatia at HC 86-xvii (2012-13) of
24 October 2012. Back
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