In her introductory statement, Ms Kos outlined that enlargement “runs like a red thread through my life”. As part of a young generation of Slovenians calling for freedom and democracy, the path to the EU was the way to go, she said, adding that she will inject the same focus and energy in the enlargement process in the coming years.

Ms Kos emphasised how the enlargement process is a marathon, not a sprint. And while she is all in favour of ambition, the enlargement journey must remain merit-based, with each country aspiring to join the EU thoroughly assessed on their individual merits: “There are no shortcuts”. At the same time, if confirmed, Ms Kos committed to ensuring all enlargement countries are well prepared, backed with strong political support from the EU and accompanied all the way along the process. Countries engaging in reforms should also reap the benefits, including through gradual integration in the single market. Making clear she would address democratic backsliding, she also emphasised the need for strong European commitment towards candidate countries.

On Ukraine, she committed to working closely with Kyiv, supporting its recovery and reconstruction in coordination with the G7 and other likeminded international partners. Supporting Ukraine and pushing back against Russia’s aggression is an absolute priority and she said enlargement negotiations with the country must be the European guiding star for this “heroic nation – the same for Moldova”. She also committed to turning enlargement from an opportunity into a reality for the Western Balkans, promoting reconciliation and regional cooperation, and stressing that bilateral issues “cannot remain permanent obstacles” to their accession prospects.

Ms Kos also expressed support for the UN’s work to solve the Cyprus issue, which will determine the pace of the EU- Türkiye relationship in the future. She said she would continue to engage with Ankara, while always defending human rights, democracy, fundamental freedoms, and the rule of law. She also said she would support efforts to foster peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan.

The integrity of the enlargement process must be upheld

Replying to questions from MEPs, Ms Kos stressed the need to uphold the integrity of the enlargement process through a merit based approach and respect for EU values. She agreed that concrete actions in line with a gradual integration into the EU would send a positive signal to citizens of candidate countries. She said that the enlargement process should be transparent with regard to money being spent – overseen by dedicated auditing structures – and based on the fulfilment of the relevant criteria by candidate countries. It will be up to member states and the EU to take the final decision on a country’s accession and in order to be prepared the necessary internal EU reforms should take place in parallel. While she promised to engage with civil society in member states, she also expressed hope that MEPs will support enlargement and present its benefits to their voters.

Press point

At the end of the hearing, the Chair of the Foreign Affairs Committee, David McAllister (EPP, Germany), held a press point outside the meeting room. You can watch it here.

Next steps
The chair and political group coordinators of the Committee on Foreign Affairs will meet without delay to assess the performance and qualification of the Commissioner-designate.

Based on the committee recommendations, the Conference of Presidents (EP President Metsola and political group chairs) is set to conduct the final evaluation and declare the hearings closed on 21 November. Once the Conference of Presidents declares all hearings closed, the evaluation letters will be published.

The election by MEPs of the full college of Commissioners (by a majority of the votes cast, by roll-call) is currently scheduled to take place during the 25-28 November plenary session in Strasbourg.