The leaders of the six Western Balkan countries are set to meet with their counterparts in the European Union (EU) in Brussels, to assess their close and complex relationship.
The joint meeting came one year after the 2022 summit held in Tirana. It serves as a platform to reiterate the EU commitment to the Western Balkans’ potential membership and the necessity for these partners to maintain and solidify reforms that align with EU values and principles.
Key discussion points at the summit include:
- Strengthening political and policy ties with the Western Balkans.
- Enhancing the integration of Western Balkan nations into the EU framework.
- Establishing an economic base for future growth and addressing the repercussions of Russia’s military actions in Ukraine.
- Boosting security measures and increasing regional resilience.
The EU’s primary goal is to draw the Western Balkans closer, preparing them for eventual EU accession and ensuring tangible benefits for their citizens throughout the process of enlargement. To achieve this, the EU plans to consider additional steps to further facilitate the region’s gradual integration, making full use of the potential of existing legal frameworks.
In light of Russia’s military conflict with Ukraine, the EU is committed to deepening its political involvement with the Western Balkans, beyond the assistance already provided. The EU will continue supporting the Western Balkan countries in managing the adverse impacts on their economies and societies.
The summit also presents an opportunity to address coordinated actions regarding security concerns, especially pertinent in the wake of Russia’s actions against Ukraine. Discussions will cover topics such as combating foreign information interference and strengthening collective cybersecurity capabilities.
