Western Balkans: High Representative Josep Borrell hosts regional leaders in New York

High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy/Vice-President of the European Commission Josep Borrell hosted an informal meeting with Western Balkans leaders on Wednesday in New York, in the margins of the United Nations General Assembly. The annual gathering reflects the European Union's commitment to our partnership with the Western Balkans - our future Member States. It serves as an occasion for exchange of views on issues of common interest, beyond enlargement, on issues of global security and stability.

The discussion centred on the pressing geopolitical challenges, particularly the damaging impact of Russia's aggression against Ukraine and China's efforts to expand its economic influence. High Representative Borrell and the Western Balkans leaders discussed the importance of strengthening resilience, emphasising the need for strategic alignment with the European Union to safeguard regional stability.

High Representative Borrell highlighted that the Western Balkans is an integral part of Europe's future. He emphasised the importance and strength of EU-Western Balkans ties, and reiterated that EU membership is within reach, provided that the key reforms are pursued with renewed focus.

The meeting was an opportunity to recall the need to resolve existing bilateral disputes. High Representative Borrell underlined the importance of good neighbourly relations achieved through dialogue and compromise as essential steps toward the EU integration. The leaders must take bold, strategic decisions to advance their European aspirations.

High Representative Borrell concluded by reaffirming the EU's commitment to supporting the Western Balkans on their European path, highlighting that enlargement remains a top priority for the EU.

Prime Minister of Albania Edi Rama, Chairman of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina Denis Bećirović, President of Kosovo Vjosa Osmani-Sadriu, President of North Macedonia Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova, President of Serbia Aleksandar Vučić and Deputy Prime Minister for Foreign and European Affairs of Montenegro Filip Ivanović participated in the meeting.