Prime Minister at the EU-Western Balkans summit: we opt for strengthening transatlantic ties
06.10.2021
Underlining the importance of the European Union’s enlargement policy and economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, these are the main topics discussed at the European Union-Western Balkans (EU-WB) summit in Brdo ( Slovenia). As Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki underlined, Poland, together with Central European countries, represents a strong voice in favor of the integration of Western Balkan countries into the EU in order to increase development opportunities and to maintain stability and peace in Europe. The meeting of EU and World Bank leaders ended with the adoption of a joint statement in which the EU reiterated its support for the European perspective of the Western Balkans. An informal meeting of EU heads of state and government was also held on 5 October. The leaders discussed current issues regarding European security, transatlantic cooperation and rising energy prices in Europe.
EU leaders confirmed their unequivocal support for the European perspective of the Western Balkan countries. Regional initiatives contributing to reflection on the future of the continent within the framework of the Conference on the Future of Europe were well received. The summit discussions also addressed the issue of strengthening the EU’s commitment to socio-economic recovery, sustainable development of the region and post-pandemic recovery on the basis of an economic and investment plan for the Western Balkans.
EU and Western Balkans leaders also had the opportunity to exchange ideas on how to deepen political dialogue, security cooperation and strategic engagement, as well as reaffirm their shared commitment to work towards a strong, stable and united Europe.
Joint statement by the leaders of the European Union and the Western Balkans
In the statement, the EU reiterated its unequivocal support for the European perspective of the Western Balkans. He reaffirmed his commitment to the enlargement process, based on the credible reform efforts of partners. He also confirmed his continued commitment to promoting political, economic and social changes in the region, while recognizing the progress made by the Western Balkans.
The Western Balkans partners reaffirmed their attachment to European values and principles as well as their commitment to carrying out the necessary reforms in the interests of their citizens.
Materials
Statement
Deklaracja_z_Brda,_6_października_2021_r.pdf
0.26 MB
Informal meeting of EU heads of state and government
An informal meeting of EU heads of state and government was also held on 5 October. The leaders discussed current issues regarding European security, transatlantic cooperation and rising energy prices in Europe. One of the topics of discussion between EU leaders was also the question of increasing the EU’s capacity to act autonomously through a single market and through standards in the areas of climate, energy or digital and industrial policy, equal opportunities, reciprocity in relation to questions of security and defense of the EU. The Prime Minister highlighted that growing concern over digital threats and cyberterrorism could be seen during the talks.
The issue of rising energy prices in the European Union was also discussed. “During the Summit, among others, I highlighted the risks associated with energy prices. To a large extent, they are artificially shaped by the limitation of deliveries by Russia and Gazprom. I am convinced that the voice of the Spanish Prime Minister and mine were very powerful,” declared the head of the Polish government. This subject will also be on the agenda of the next European Council scheduled for October 21 and 22 in Brussels.
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