Kosovo Calls for Formalized EU Candidate Status Following 40-Month Wait
Nicosia, Cyprus – Kosovo’s Chief Negotiator with the EU, Jeton Zulfaj, addressed European Affairs Ministers at an informal meeting held in Cyprus on May 12, 2026, emphasizing the need for a definitive decision regarding the nation’s EU membership application. Speaking during the meeting, Zulfaj stated that more than 40 months have elapsed since Kosovo formally applied for candidate country status at the end of December 2022. Despite repeated assurances from the European Commission regarding its willingness to provide an opinion, no formal decision has been reached.
Zulfaj expressed frustration with the ongoing situation, stating, “It is time for the EU to act.” He reiterated the call for the immediate formalization of Kosovo’s candidate country status. The ongoing delay has been a persistent point of discussion. Kosovo’s application was submitted over three years prior, and the prolonged period without a decision underscores the challenges facing the country’s integration into the European Union.
Representatives are continuing discussions with EU officials regarding the next steps in the process.
Topics: #cyprus #months #applied
This continued delay is unacceptable and demands a clear answer from the EU regarding Kosovo’s candidacy.