Yesterday in Tivat, Montenegro, the European Council held a meeting along with leaders of the Western Balkans under the theme “Shared prosperity and stability of the EU and the Western Balkans.” EU Leaders reviewed the ascension process of Western Balkan countries, along with the ongoing the Growth Plan launched in 2023. The EU committed up to โฌ6 billion in funding and incentives as part of the plan.
The Council authorised the extension of the โRoam Like at Homeโ area to the region to allow free roaming into the EU. Discussions were also held to strengthen the security and defence of Western Balkan States through the European Peace Facility and also on hybrid and cyber threats.
Countries currently participating in the process include Albania, North Macednoia, Kosovo, and Montenegro which is the current frontrunner with membership status targeted for 2028. EU Council President Antonio Costa said that last month the EU started drafting Montenegro’s ascension treaty. In his remarks, President Costa also said that “The Western Balkans are an integral part of the European Unionโs future. Their accession remains our priority and a crucial geopolitical investment. The process is and will remain grounded on merit and credible reforms.”
Serbian President Aleksandar Vuฤiฤ was also present although Serbia’s application process is weak and dubious at best under the current Serbian administration. Albania’s Prime Minister Edi Rama, who is currently under fire back home for a mega real-estate project organised by Jared Kushner and Ivanka Trump, was also presented at the summit. Albania is doing significant progress with regard to EU ascension talks but issues persists on rule-of-law issues.ย
Malta’s Prime Minister Robert Abela was also present at the summit.
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