EU enlargement to Western Balkan countries would be an investment in peace, security and prosperity, the bloc’s foreign policy chief Josep Borell said on Wednesday.
“Enlargement must accelerate. It is our guarantee of security and it is a very important way to become partners,” Borrell said before the EU-Western Balkans summit in Brussels.
According to Borrell, changing conditions around the world endanger Europe’s security and stability.
“It is in our vital interest to work and cooperate as closely as possible with the Western Balkans, which are our future members,” the EU official said at the summit, during which he announced a new EU support program. Albania, Montenegro and North Macedonia. counter cybersecurity threats and build resilience.
“This financial support aims to strengthen our partners in the face of the challenges they face in this crucial area, contributing to the security of Europe,” Borrell said.
Also participating in the summit, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed hope that the summit would achieve significant progress.
“Our hope today is not to go around in circles. If we give hope, it must be accompanied by tangible and concrete results,” she said.
Leaders of the six Western Balkan countries met in Brussels on Wednesday for the summit, which is expected to focus on possible joint responses to challenges in an increasingly complex geostrategic context.
