EU and Western Balkans leaders met in Brussels on 18 December. The meeting served as an opportunity to pursue the new momentum for the strategic partnership between the European Union and the Western Balkans, including a reflection on how to strengthen that partnership and move forward together towards a joint future in the European Union.

The summit, chaired for the first time by António Costa in his new role as President of the European Council, emphasised shared connections. “We belong to the same European family. We share the same continent, but most importantly, we share common values and a common history,” Costa remarked, highlighting the unity between the EU and the Western Balkans.

The summit concluded with the Brussels Declaration, underscoring the shared vision of the EU and the Western Balkans. “We share a common future and face urgent challenges that we can only overcome together. We owe it to our citizens to build a future of peace and prosperity, founded on shared principles, values, and common interests,” the declaration stated. The full text of the Brussels Declaration can be read here.

The main topics of discussion were:

• Enhancing the EU–Western Balkans integration through the Growth Plan
• Deepening the EU’s political and policy engagement, including foreign and security policy
• Building an economic foundation for the future and mitigating the impact of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine
• Co-operation in migration management and the fight against corruption and organised crime

Enhancing integration with the Western Balkans through the Growth Plan

Launched in 2023, the Growth Plan aims to further integrate the Western Balkans partners closer to the integration within the EU single market. It focuses on advancing regional economic cooperation, fostering sustainable development, and incentivising critical reforms aligned with EU standards. “We commend five of the partners for the preparation and submission of their reform agendas, approved by the Commission, which will be the basis of implementation of the Growth Plan”, the Brussels declaration noted, highlighting the progress made towards building a stronger economic and political connection.

The European Union continues to stand as the Western Balkans’ closest partner, serving as the region’s main investor, trading partner, and primary donor. Recognising this relationship, the EU encourages Western Balkan partners to actively communicate their alignment with EU values and commitment to reform through visible actions and public engagement, reinforced by strategic communication efforts.

Both the EU and the Western Balkans share the responsibility of addressing common challenges. The Brussels Declaration highlighted significant progress, particularly in enabling visa-free travel for people across the entire Western Balkans region to the Schengen area.

This summit marked another step in implementing the European Council’s 2024–2029 strategic agenda, underscoring the commitment to strengthening partnerships and addressing shared priorities.