Vigenin in the EP: Enlargement and reform do not contradict each other, they are the engines of a stable and united Europe

“Europe has to continue its enlargement, with confidence and without division.” This was stated by Bulgarian MEP from the Group of the Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats in the European Parliament Kristian Vigenin in his speech during the debate on the EP Report on the institutional consequences of the EU enlargement negotiations.

Vigenin stressed that enlargement and institutional reform do not contradict each other but complement each other, and together they guarantee the stability and effectiveness of the European Union.

“The prospect of EU membership and the accession that follows remain the strongest engines for transformation, stability and reconciliation on our continent,” he said. “Enlargement to the east and south-east is not simply a geographical question, it is the fulfilment of the promise of a united and stable Europe,” Vigenin pointed out.

The MEP emphasised that institutional reform should not be used as a pretext for delaying enlargement, but on the contrary should be seen as the necessary preparation for the successful inclusion of new members in the future. He warned that on the most sensitive topics, such as foreign policy, defence and the accession of new countries, unanimity remains necessary in order to guarantee the legitimacy and cohesion of the Union.

“The strength of Europe is in its ability to carry out reforms without hesitation and to enlarge without division. Let us move forward with confidence, strengthening our institutional stability and keeping the door open for those who are ready to share our future,” Vigenin concluded.