The European Commission is poised to make a significant announcement this Tuesday, indicating that Bosnia should initiate EU accession talks.

This move signifies a crucial step towards the country’s potential future membership within the European Union.

Bosnia was granted candidate status by the EU back in December 2022, setting the stage for this latest development.

According to insights provided by two EU officials and one EU diplomat to POLITICO, the European Commission is expected to deliver a positive recommendation for Bosnia to commence formal accession negotiations.

This recommendation comes at a time when Ukraine and Moldova are also anticipated to advance in the enlargement process.

The forthcoming proposal from the European Commission will include negotiating frameworks, outlining the guidelines and fundamental principles that will govern Bosnia’s accession talks.

However, the formal commencement of these negotiations hinges upon the agreement of all 27 EU member states, a process likely to extend beyond the upcoming June European elections.

For several EU nations, including Austria, the progression of Ukraine and Moldova towards EU integration is intrinsically linked to Bosnia’s accession journey.

This sentiment underscores the interconnectedness of enlargement efforts across the European continent.

The next pivotal phase involves discussions among EU leaders regarding the recommendation on Bosnia during their scheduled meeting in Brussels next week.

Recent diplomatic efforts have seen foreign ministers from Austria, Italy, and Germany visiting Sarajevo in a show of support for initiating accession negotiations.

During a joint press conference with German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, Bosnian Foreign Minister Elmedin Konaković stressed the importance of avoiding further frustration in the accession process.

Konaković emphasized the critical nature of Bosnia-Herzegovina’s European trajectory, urging stakeholders to remain mindful of the potential consequences if progress stalls.

Additionally, the European Commission had intended to present a document outlining preparations within the EU for future enlargement, particularly concerning the absorption of war-torn countries such as Ukraine, with a population exceeding 40 million.

However, this document’s release, initially slated for February 27, has been postponed until March 20, as indicated by the latest agenda from the European Commission.

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