Brussels, 12 June (LaPresse) – ‘Today, the European Union has taken an important step forward. All Member States have agreed to open the first cluster of accession negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova.’ This was announced on X by European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. ‘At the first Intergovernmental Conference on Monday,’ they explain, ‘we will launch the working group on fundamental principles, the backbone of the accession process. It addresses the core values and principles on which the EU is founded, from the rule of law to robust democratic institutions.’ EU leaders report that “this recognition testifies to the determination, courage and commitment shown by both countries in pushing ahead with reforms, even in the face of immense challenges. And it is a sign that the EU’s offer of peace, stability and opportunity is unrivalled. Enlargement is a strategic choice. By bringing countries closer together, we strengthen peace, security and prosperity across the continent. In a world characterised by growing uncertainty, a wider European Union is in our common interest. Enlargement remains one of the EU’s greatest successes and our best investment in our shared future.”