On 21 September 2011, these questions were discussed by Ambassador Dr. Miro Kovač, MP Horst Meierhofer, Croatia expert of the European Commission, Dirk Lange, and Dr. Katrin Böttger, deputy director of the Institute for European Politics (IEP) during a panel debate in the European House in.
The panellists agreed that Croatia’s accession is an important step, but not the final point of the country’s reform process. However, if the country continues necessary economic, judicial and administrative reforms it could indeed serve as a role model for the Balkan region. Moreover, trade relations between Croatia and EU member states will be intensified quickly. Hence, Croatia’s EU accession will be beneficial for both the country and the Union.
21 September, 2011
UEF Germany: Panel Discussion with Ambassador Kovač on Croatia’s EU accession
Having finalised the accession negotiations successfully, Croatia is to join the EU on July 1st, 2013. There are hopes that Croatia’s membership will have a positive impact on the Balkan region. Yet, in how far is Croatia really able to influence its neighbouring countries? How is Croatia’s process of political and economic reform going to develop after accession? What are the benefits of the country’s accession both for Croatia and for present EU member states?
