Germany's Scholz hopes W Balkan countries can join EU within decade

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Monday said he hoped Western Balkan states would keep making progress towards European Union membership, as he hosted leaders from the region for a summit in the German capital.

"I hope it won't take another 10 years before all six states finally become EU members," Scholz said, referring to Serbia, Montenegro, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, North Macedonia and Kosovo.

The chancellor appeared alongside European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen for a press conference on the sidelines of the summit.

However, Scholz said that past conflicts continue to hinder cooperation, with relations between Serbia and Kosovo a particular source of strife.

"I insist that both parties fully implement the commitments they have made," he stated.