Statement by President António Costa following the EU-Western Balkans summit 21:00 President of the European Council António Costa presented the main results of the discussions[...]

We have just concluded our summit with our Western Balkans partners. It is the most significant occasion of the year to reaffirm the strength of our relationship. And today's summit has delivered a clear message: we firmly support the Western Balkans' future in the European Union.

Enlargement remains central to our shared objectives. It is the right choice for three reasons:

• first, from a geopolitical perspective. An enlarged European Union means a safer, stronger and more peaceful Europe;
• second, because enlargement strengthens our shared prosperity. Every previous enlargement has proven this;
• and third, because the European Union remains an attractive and credible project-and we must deliver on the expectations it creates. Enlargement is now moving faster than it has in the last 15 years. And we must seize this opportunity.

Enlargement is a merit-based process, not a race or a competition between candidates. Those who move faster should not be held back by others. Quite the contrary, they should set the pace and serve as an inspiration for all.

Over the past 12 months, good progress has been made:

• Montenegro's path to the EU has clearly accelerated. Just this week, five accession chapters were successfully closed;
• Albania has managed to open all negotiating clusters in a very short time, the last ones just in November. Next year will be their moment of truth to accelerate reforms;
• regarding North Macedonia, we welcome the steps to boost regional connectivity. And we hope for real progress in 2026. Their authorities know what they need to do;
• also this year, Bosnia and Herzegovina adopted their Reform Agenda, a necessary step to access the Growth Plan. This will allow them to tap the full potential of the European Union's support and gradual integration;
• regarding Kosovo, we welcome the steps taken to build trust between communities. The upcoming parliamentary elections can be crucial moment for consolidating the reforms and engaging constructively in the European accession path.

Let's be clear, beyond the technicalities of the process, there is a fundamental political choice to make: a choice between staying trapped in the past, or moving forward towards a joint future in the European Union, a choice between division or reconciliation and cooperation, which are the very pillars of the European Union.

Only by overcoming the past can the Western Balkans fully assume their role as future EU members, and contribute to a stable, prosperous, and united Europe. The road ahead will not be easy. Some reforms will be difficult, but they are worth it. And I believe that our partners are committed to delivering.

We must keep this momentum. For this, we will support our partners every step of the way. Enlargement is a deeply transformational process. Socioeconomic convergence will anchor their future in the European Union. The EU is-and will remain-the Western Balkans' most reliable partner. They are all part of the European family, and the European Union is their place.

I look forward to our next Summit in Montenegro in June 2026.