(ANSA) - ROME, APR 26 - EU enlargement in the Western Balkans.
    Speaking about EU enlargement, Hayer said that there has been a lot of progress in that area recently because of the situation in Ukraine.
    She pointed out that the rule on which the process of accession to the Union is based on merit applies to both Ukraine and the Western Balkans. It is also important for the EU to implement reforms so that it can function after enlargement.
    "We Europeans ourselves must undertake reforms if we are to be more effective in our decision-making processes," said the French politician.
    She warned that the presence and influence of Russia and China can be seen in the Western Balkans, and that expansion is also a "geopolitical tool".
    Alongside Hayer, the leading liberal candidates are Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann from Germany and Sandro Gozi from Italy. The liberal Renew faction in the European Parliament actually consists of three parties: the Alliance of Liberals and Democrats in Europe (ALDE), the French Renaissance of President Emmanuel Macron and the EDP ("European Democratic Party"), to which the Free Voters also belong. The European elections take place on June 6-9, 2024.
    Photo: picture alliance / Panama Pictures. (ANSA).