The President: EU enlargement to the Western Balkans is a geostrategic investment in the security of Europe

In Brussels, President Gitanas Nausėda took part in the European Union-Western Balkans Summit, which focused on strengthening the strategic partnership between the EU and the Western Balkans, the stability and security of the region, and the progress of the Western Balkan countries' integration into the European Union.

Meetings between EU and Western Balkan leaders, which have become a tradition, serve as an important platform for assessing progress in the enlargement process and the EU's contribution to peace, security, and economic development in the region. This year, particular attention was devoted to the complex geopolitical environment, Russia's war against Ukraine, and the need for Europe to strengthen its responsibility for its own security and democratic values.

During the summit, EU and Western Balkan leaders adopted a joint declaration emphasizing that EU enlargement constitutes a geostrategic investment in peace, stability, and security in Europe. The declaration underscores respect for EU values and principles, the gradual integration of the Western Balkan countries into the EU, the importance of implementing reforms, strengthening regional cooperation, and solidarity with Ukraine.

"In today's international environment, it is especially important to ensure a stable and secure Western Balkans region, promote good neighborly relations, and avoid actions that could generate tensions or undermine regional cooperation. The Western Balkan countries have to clearly demonstrate their principled stance and strategic orientation by standing firmly with the European Union and supporting Ukraine through political, military, and financial means," the Head of State stated.

The President also called on all Western Balkan countries to fully align with the EU's Common Foreign and Security Policy, implement EU sanctions against Russia and Belarus, and actively prevent their circumvention. According to the President, EU candidate countries should not become platforms for Russian propaganda and disinformation, and the activities of destabilizing propaganda channels in the region must be countered.

"Lithuania consistently supports EU enlargement. We firmly believe that the future of the Western Balkan countries lies within the European Union. Particular attention must be given to strengthening the rule of law, combating corruption, and implementing fundamental reforms. It is equally important that bilateral issues do not become obstacles to achieving common strategic goals of the EU," Gitanas Nausėda emphasized.

President Gitanas Nausėda reaffirmed Lithuania's commitment to the EU enlargement process and noted that this will be one of Lithuania's priorities during its Presidency of the Council of the European Union in 2027.