Giaufret: Serbia’s 2026 accession goal ambitious but achievable

If we invest all necessary resources and efforts, this goal is achievable. The growth plan and reform agenda are valuable tools, offering both time-bound frameworks and financial incentives, Giaufret said at a panel discussion on the EU’s future following recent changes in the European Parliament and Commission.

He noted that, technically speaking, Cluster 3 of accession negotiations has been ready to open since 2021.

Giaufret emphasized that EU enlargement remains both a priority and a geopolitical necessity.

We need to enlarge to make the EU not just larger, but stronger, he explained, adding that the reforms ensure that incoming members can both contribute to the Union and compete effectively in the common market.