German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock reaffirmed her support to the advancement of the Western Balkan countries to the European Union, noting that the region not only geographically but also politically belong in Europe.

Baerbock met her Slovenian counterpart Tanja Fajon in Berlin, with the Western Balkans as one of the subjects of their talks.

She stressed that no more time can be wasted in terms of the integration of the region.

The German diplomat also warned about the influence of other actors in the region, noting that there must be nothing in the Balkans where Russia or other actors could get anchored to.

As for Bosnia and Herzegovina, Baerbock said the country's status quo regarding its EU candidate status is due to the situation where the Serb-majority entity, Republika Srpska, is intensifying its course towards secession from the state.

The Western Balkans are at the heart of Europe and close to my own heart. Their future must lie in the EU. The compromise presented by the French Presidency for the start of accession talks with #NorthMacedonia is an opportunity that should not be missed. 1/2

— Außenministerin Annalena Baerbock (@ABaerbock) June 30, 2022