EU chief rules out 'associate membership' model for Kosovo, backs full membership path

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Thursday ruled out an “associate membership” model for Kosovo, saying the country should pursue full EU membership as a European state.

Speaking at a joint news conference with Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti in Pristina during her Western Balkans tour, von der Leyen said EU treaties allow European countries to apply for membership, distinguishing Kosovo's position from Canada's.

“The difference between Canada and Kosovo, for example, is the following: Our treaties say it must be a European country that is applying for membership in the European Union,” von der Leyen said.

“Canada geographically is no more Europe, so Canada cannot apply for a membership in the European Union ... For Kosovo, it's different. As a European country, you can be member of the European Union,” she said.

Von der Leyen's remarks came after she proposed in September that Canada could become the EU's first “associate member” as part of efforts to develop a closer relationship between the bloc and Ottawa.

“I believe in a European future for Kosovo very clearly,” von der Leyen added.

She also called for faster reforms and fully functioning institutions in Kosovo, saying institutional stability was essential for reforms, economic growth and progress on the European path.