EU discusses gradual integration plan for candidate countries (politico.eu)

• France and Germany propose gradual integration for Western Balkan candidates.
• Estonia's PM Michal: Discussion useful, but full membership is ultimate goal.
• Ukraine cautions against creating two classes of candidate countries.

"EU leaders are considering a Franco-German proposal to offer Western Balkan candidate countries observer status in EU institutions and limited Single Market access before full membership. Estonian PM Kristen Michal endorsed the discussion, stressing that full membership remains the goal. Ukraine warned against creating two tiers of candidates."