Claudia Plakolm, the Austrian Minister for European Affairs, is urging the European Union to speed up its expansion, particularly in the Western Balkans, stating that concrete steps are needed to benefit the population. She hopes for the first new member states by 2030.

Plakolm suggests “gradual integration” for advanced candidates through participation in EU programs, identifying Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Albania as promising candidates. She believes these countries could potentially become members by 2030.

She warns that the EU risks losing credibility and influence in the Western Balkans, potentially allowing other global powers, such as Russia and China, to gain influence. She emphasizes the readiness of the population, especially young people, for reforms and European integration.

Plakolm acknowledges Ukraine’s candidate status as a geopolitical decision, supporting its alignment with European principles but noting that membership will take time, with the Western Balkans currently further ahead in the process.

Regarding other potential candidates, she does not support the proposal for Canada’s membership but advocates for stronger international partnerships, including with Canada.

Addressing global turbulence and trade policies, Plakolm calls for Europe to strengthen its strategic sovereignty and act as a strong global player. She welcomes the European Commission’s plan to strengthen European defense, emphasizing Austria’s commitment to using available opportunities, particularly financial ones, in accordance with its constitution.

Finally, Plakolm states that Austria will continue to advocate for a thrifty approach to the EU budget after 2027.