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The document, in response to the earlier French proposal, says it expects the European Commission's proposals not to hinder but to foster the enlargement process which for the signatories of the document is part of European common history and values.
The text proposes that negotiation chapters be grouped and reviewed faster, in parallel, rather than in succession, and that the process of assessing progress be made more efficient and with greater involvement of the civil society. Also in the proposed steps is mentioned the increase incentives for countries that prove successful in completing negotiation chapters, Euronews Albania reports.
Unlike France, they support the idea that membership is the ultimate goal,
In the unofficial document, the proposals of the nine EU countries are:
- The best structure for Chapters 23 & 24 for the rule of law.
The EU and the Member States should offer more support in the fight against corruption and organized crime.
-To promote progress in each group of chapters through stronger incentives that create clearer benefits for citizens.
-Policy incentives should include: European Council meetings with Western Balkan leaders and increased participation in informal Council meetings
-Effective financial initiatives, more financial support for the region, close cooperation with international financial institutions.
- The commission to introduce the implementation of EU directives in each area in order to facilitate a broader consensus on the evaluation of reforms
eg through a scoreboard, especially in the area of the rule of law.
-Assessment of reforms to be carried out including civil society, parliamentarians, and local government representatives
-The improved communication of the EU towards the Western Balkans and their citizens.
- EU governments should also make a greater effort to explain the benefits of enlargement to their citizens.