liitlasriigid

Liitlasriigid, also known as partner states, are countries that have established a formal relationship with the European Union (EU) through a partnership agreement. These agreements are typically concluded with countries that are not yet ready to join the EU but wish to deepen their cooperation with the bloc. The primary goal of these partnerships is to facilitate the eventual accession of the partner state to the EU.

The partnership agreements cover a wide range of areas, including political cooperation, economic integration, and the free movement of people. They often include provisions for the gradual implementation of EU acquis, which is the body of EU law and policy. This process can take several years, depending on the specific terms of the agreement.

Liitlasriigid are not full members of the EU and do not have the same rights and obligations as member states. However, they do benefit from certain privileges and advantages, such as access to the EU's single market and the ability to participate in EU programs and initiatives.

The concept of liitlasriigid was introduced in the early 2000s as part of the EU's strategy to expand its influence and promote stability in the Western Balkans and other regions. Since then, several countries have entered into partnership agreements with the EU, including Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia.