As far as Southeast Europe in general is concerned, every state in this region has a possibility to become a member of the European Union, said Nowotny, whose country is currently holding the six-month rotating EU presidency.
The ambassador described as unfounded the concern in some Southeast European countries that the EU would rather deal with its internal issues, such as the economy and the as yet unconfirmed constitution, before deciding on a new enlargement round, which could delay said countries' accession.
Voice of America quoted Nowotny as saying that the EU had not set a time frame for the accession of any state.
It is useless and pointless to speculate on deadlines and time frames, she said, adding that the EU would integrate the states of the Western Balkans in the fairest and fastest way.