"We can live safely and stably in the EU only if we do more for security, stability and regional reconciliation in the Western Balkans," Michael Roth, state secretary at the German Ministry of Foreign Affairs, told DW.
"I still have the impression that the strategic interest of the EU and many EU members towards the Western Balkans has weakened," says Michael Roth, State Secretary at the German Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
"It is problematic and worries me, because we in the EU can live safely and stably only if we do more for security, stability and regional reconciliation in the Western Balkans."
In an interview with DW, Roth emphasized that he is "pleased to have partners in the EU who, on behalf of everyone, recognize the strategic importance" of this region, referring to Bulgaria. The State Secretary was part of the delegation of German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, who was in Sofia on Thursday and Friday. During the visit, Steinmeier praised Bulgaria's commitment to the neighborhood that is not yet part of the EU.
Social democratic politician Roth believes it is important to "raise the visibility" of the European Union in the region with a clear message: "We are not leaving people in the Western Balkans stranded, especially because the transformation process on the way to the EU is so difficult for people. We see this above all in young people who leave their homelands and come to Germany because they no longer see prospects for themselves in the Western Balkans."
"Community of Values First"
At the same time, in an interview with DW, this state secretary emphasizes that "there must be no political concessions" in the field of democracy, the rule of law, respect for minorities and the fight against corruption.
"The European Union is not primarily a common market, nor an economic project, but a community of values," he adds.
Germany will preside over the EU in the second half of next year, and Roth hopes for a big engagement in the Western Balkans.
"Of course, today we are occupied with other topics. One example is Brexit, which costs a lot of energy and time. We are currently negotiating the EU financial framework. It is all the more important that the Western Balkans is not neglected as a topic", concludes Michael Roth.
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