Strasbourg/Ljubljana – After the new European Commission was confirmed, former Slovenian diplomat Marta Kos expressed her deep sense of responsibility as she steps into her role as Commissioner for EU Enlargement. Speaking in the European Parliament, she highlighted the significant challenges ahead. Kos is set to visit Kyiv on Saturday, even though her official duties will commence on Sunday.
“I carry an immense responsibility because the tasks at hand are crucial, and the issue of enlargement has never been more pressing,” she remarked.
She emphasized that her initial focus will be on assisting candidate countries in preparing for EU membership, recognizing that the timeline for each nation will vary. Additionally, she noted the importance of collaborating with current EU member states to ensure readiness for incoming members.
Kos announced that she will travel to Kyiv on Saturday with António Costa, the newly elected President of the European Council, and Kaja Kallas, the new EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs. Following her visit to Ukraine, she will also travel to Neum in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The new commission, which will be led by German politician Ursula von der Leyen, along with President Costa, is set to officially begin its mandate on Sunday.
Slovenian Prime Minister Robert Golob extended his best wishes to the new commission, acknowledging the significant role the enlargement portfolio, now headed by a Slovenian commissioner, will play in ensuring stability and security in the Western Balkans, particularly in Ukraine, where a genuine opportunity for a peaceful resolution is emerging. (November 27)
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