Europe leaders are trying to open the door to #EU membership to 6 Western #Balkan States, but there are several impediments, not the least of which is #Spain's refusal to recognize the independence of #Kosovo (which recognition it fears would encourage independence efforts in #Catalonia). Whether these nations share Europes vaunted "democratic values" remains to be seen https://uk.reuters.com/article/uk-eu-balkans/eu-leaders-to-woo-west-balkan-states-but-road-to-membership-bumpy-idUKKCN1IH303