Croatia knocks on Europe's door, but should the EU expand in a time of economic crisis?

The News: Croatian accession

The European Parliament is set to endorse  Croatia as the EU's 28th Member State,

But as the crisis deepens,  some nations, like France and Germany,

are reluctant to add members in case  they add to the economic problems,

and this could delay  Serbia's accession talks.

I think there should be a period of  consolidation after the accession of Croatia.

Also Serbia will not be able to start  negotiations right away.

But for the Balkans,  the prospect of EU membership

has been a powerful force  for democratic reform.

It's also helped keep a lid on  conflict in a volatile region.

The Balkan states need to have this clear  perspective and to go on with the reforms.

These reforms are not for Brussels,  but for the citizens.

But we have to be clear  with our commitments and promises.

On December 9, EU leaders are due  to endorse Serbia as an official candidate.

But they could set conditions,  notably better relations with Kosovo,

For Serbia, the crisis must not be  an excuse to stop enlargement.

The soft power of Europe  should not be softened further.

It's important common ground -  politically and economically - in the region.

This allows us to look in the same direction  and to collaborate.

Despite the crisis,  Croatia will get its green light soon.

Serbia will have to wait longer,  so will Macedonia, Montenegro and Turkey,