Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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199. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the extent to which the EU remains focused on the issues affecting the western Balkans with particular reference to the need to ensure the future of the democratic process and compliance with the acquis communautaire; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33508/17]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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The stability of the countries of the Western Balkans continues to be a priority for the European Union. The region is currently facing many challenges, and internal political difficulties are frequently compounded by the impact of external influences. On 9 March, the European Council reaffirmed its unequivocal support for the European perspective of the region and stressed the importance of the states concerned continuing on the reform path, having good neighbourly relations with each other, and further developing inclusive regional cooperation initiatives.

High Representative Mogherini further underlined the EU’s commitment to the enlargement process at the South-East European Cooperation Process (SEECP) Summit, held in Dubrovnik on 30 June, when she emphasized that the region is facing many of the same challenges as Europe as a whole.

The EU will also be present at the Trieste Summit on 12 July when the leaders of the countries of the Western Balkans will reiterate their commitment to the reform processes required for accession to the EU, and will discuss practical aspects of regional co-operation aimed at bringing about tangible benefits to of the citizens of the region, including on the economy and infrastructure.

Ireland is a strong supporter of enlargement, viewing it as a transformative driver for stability and peace, and supports all efforts to enhance regional relationships and institutional reform.