Reaction to Commission’s 2016 Reports on FYR Macedonia and Montenegro

The European Parliament's foreign affairs committee approved on 28 February 2017 its reaction to the reports published by the European Commission concerning Montenegro and FYR Macedonia, as part of the annual Enlargement Package.

MEPs praised Montenegro's successful story as a candidate country but voiced concerns over organised crime and media freedom, as well as attempts by external actors to influence and destabilise the country and the region.

Members of the committee also regretted Macedonia's deteriorating political situation. They urged Macedonian stakeholders to swiftly form a stable government capable of pursuing the necessary reforms before being granted the status of candidate country.

The European Parliament's plenary session was expected to adopt the report at its plenary session in April 2017.

• Primary Source

ESO: Background information: 2016 Enlargement Package: credible enlargement process key to driving transformation and anchoring stability in Southeast Europe http://www.europeansources.info/record/2016-enlargement-package-credible-enlargement-process-key-to-driving-transformation-and-anchoring-stability-in-southeast-europe/

EP: EPRS: At a Glance: Plenary, April 2017: FYR Macedonia: 2016 report http://www.europarl.europa.eu/RegData/etudes/ATAG/2017/599324/EPRS_ATA(2017)599324_EN.pdf

European Parliament: Press Release, 16.03.17: MEPs welcome 2016 reform efforts in Montenegro http://www.europarl.europa.eu/news/en/news-room/20170308IPR65679/

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