The ALDE group gave its backing today to the 2009 assessment reports on the progress of candidate countries - Croatia, the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia and Turkey towards EU accession. 

On Croatia's report, Ivo Vajgl (Slovenia, Zares) said:

"Croatia has undertaken many reforms, bringing it closer to the conclusion of negotiations. Now it must step up the fight against corruption and reform the judiciary. The Government led by the new Prime Minister Jadranka Kosor must also fully cooperate with the ICTY, respect human rights and protect national and other minorities. With proper legislation and measures, the possibilities for the return of refugees and displaced persons of Serbian nationality should be increased. Croatia should undertake intense efforts to solve open questions with neighbouring countries, especially the open border issues. These steps are vital to Croatia's European future."

On the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Norica Nicolai (Romania, PNL) stated:

"This report shows a welcome consensus from the Parliament on the way forward for FYROM.  Accession negotiations should start this year as recommended by the Commission.  The name issue with Greece should not be an impossible obstacle.  Athens and Skopje should come together to find a lasting solution."

Finally, on the report on Turkey, Alexander Graf Lambsdorff (Germany, FDP) said:

"Cyprus is an issue that has bedevilled Turkey's EU membership application.  The report rightly calls for all parties to do their utmost to reach a negotiated settlement on the division of the island, with the support of the United Nations.  That is a vital hurdle that must be overcome."