Western Balkans' EU Integration Discussed at Italy-Led Meeting

A ministerial meeting, led by Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, convened in Villa Madama to discuss the integration of the Western Balkans into the European Union. Representatives from Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Montenegro, and Serbia attended, along with members of the "Friends of the Western Balkans" group, including Italy, Austria, Croatia, Greece, Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Slovenia. EU High Representative Kaja Kallas and European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos also participated. The meeting focused on strengthening coordination to accelerate the European integration process by 2025. Tajani emphasized Italy's commitment to the region's stability and security, citing its involvement in missions like KFOR, EULEX, and EUFOR Althea. Italy supports the accession of Balkan countries to the EU before 2030, with potential for Serbia, Montenegro, Albania, and North Macedonia to join by 2029. Bosnia and Herzegovina may require additional time. The Kosovo-Serbia relationship was addressed, with Tajani advocating for reduced tensions and respect for minority rights. Discussions also covered enhanced cooperation between the EU and regional partners in security and reconciliation, with contributions from key figures such as EULEX Kosovo Head of Mission Giovanni Barbano, BEI Vice President Gelsomina Vigliotti, and InCE Secretary General Franco Dal Mas. Separately, Austria and six other EU countries are pushing for renewed momentum in the EU accession process for the Western Balkan states. At a meeting in Rome, Interim Chancellor Alexander Schallenberg of Austria and counterparts from Italy, Croatia, Czech Republic, Greece, Slovakia, and Slovenia supported a gradual and accelerated integration through concrete steps. Schallenberg highlighted the importance of exporting stability to avoid importing instability. Italian President Sergio Mattarella also urged for courage and persistence in advancing European integration, including the accession of Western Balkan countries, Ukraine, and Moldova.