In the draft of the document, which Eupravo Zato reviewed, the "full and unequivocal commitment to the perspective of Western Balkan membership in the EU" is confirmed, declaring that the region’s future lies in the Union.
It highlights that EU enlargement is a geostrategic investment in peace, security, stability, and prosperity, noting significant progress since last year’s summit.
At the very beginning of the Declaration, EU leaders state: "In the context of the radical shift in the global geopolitical situation, Russia’s war against Ukraine, the conflicts in the Middle East, and at the beginning of a new EU leadership cycle, the strategic partnership between the European Union and the Western Balkans is more important than ever."
The EU welcomes the determination of Western Balkan partners to respect core European values and principles in accordance with international law, placing democracy, fundamental rights, values, and the rule of law at the top of their priorities.
It is stated that the rule of law, freedom of expression, independent and pluralistic media, gender equality, and a strong role for civil society are key to the functioning of democracy.
Regarding alignment with the EU’s foreign and security policy, leaders commend Western Balkan partners who have already implemented restrictive measures, such as sanctions against Russia and Belarus, and who are preventing their circumvention.
Furthermore, it is emphasised that additional alignment of visa policies, the suppression of migrant smuggling, human trafficking, and all forms of serious and organised crime are necessary.
"The Growth Plan for the Western Balkans has the potential to double the region’s economic growth over the next decade. It will accelerate the socio-economic convergence between the Western Balkans and the EU, provided that partners implement reforms. We commend the five partners for submitting their reform agendas, which the Commission has approved and which will serve as the basis for implementing the Growth Plan. We congratulate those partners who have already joined the Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA), reducing transaction costs for citizens," the statement said.
The Declaration notes that reconciliation, inclusive regional cooperation, and good neighbourly relations are at the heart of the European Union.
It further states that the lack of normalisation of relations between Pristina and Belgrade hinders both partners. Agreements reached in the EU-facilitated dialogue must be implemented.
Regarding energy, it is mentioned that Western Balkan countries should utilise the EU’s mechanism for joint procurement of gas and liquefied natural gas to reduce their dependence on Russian gas.
Additionally, Western Balkan countries are encouraged to take advantage of the opening of the European electricity market.
In the section dedicated to transport, the EU expresses its support for the integration of the region into the EU road and rail transport market, as well as the implementation of green lanes at all relevant borders.
It is also stated that the EU and the Western Balkans should continue working on integrating into the EU’s single digital market, and regional partners are urged to fully implement the Green Agenda.