France and Germany Propose EU Benefits for Candidate Countries Before Membership

France and Germany have proposed granting European Union candidate countries certain benefits and participation rights before they achieve full membership. According to a document, representatives from Western Balkan countries and Moldova could participate in parts of EU ministerial meetings and summits, though without voting rights. The proposal would allow these candidate nations to join EU programs during the accession process rather than waiting for complete membership. This initiative appears aimed at providing incentives and closer integration for countries seeking EU membership, particularly those in the Western Balkans and Moldova, which have been navigating lengthy accession processes.