Western Balkan countries that aspire to join the European Union must change their mindset and overcome historical conflicts to build a shared future, European Council President António Costa said on Monday.
Speaking at the Bled Strategic Forum, Costa stressed that enlargement remains a priority for the bloc.
“The accession paths of the Western Balkans, Moldova and Ukraine are not just promises. They are priorities. These countries are at the heart of Europe and are part of Europe’s future,” he said. “In the coming years, we must prepare the Union for enlargement – through reforms, budget adjustments and stronger governance. Enlargement will not be easy. But it will be worth it.”
Costa described the EU’s Growth Plan for the Western Balkans as a milestone, offering financial support and incentives for reforms, regional cooperation and economic integration.
“We must not lose this momentum. All leaders must contribute. All sides must take responsibility. Because this is not about geography. This is about values – democracy, human rights, freedom and the rule of law,” he said.
Marking the 20th anniversary of the Bled Forum, Costa also called for a “more independent, resilient and sovereign Europe,” citing the recent EU-U.S. trade agreement and diplomatic efforts to end Russia’s war in Ukraine.
He said Europe had chosen diplomacy over escalation in trade tensions with Washington, adding that security during war on the bloc’s eastern border remained an “existential concern.”
Costa reiterated the EU’s support for Kyiv, noting that the bloc has provided more than 170 billion euros in aid since the war began.
On the Middle East, he called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and unhindered access to humanitarian assistance.
“The EU has consistently condemned the terrorist attacks by Hamas on 7 October and continues to call for the unconditional release of all hostages,” he said. “At the same time, the right to self-defence does not justify indiscriminate destruction of civilian infrastructure, nor the collective punishment of entire populations.”
Costa said the EU has provided more than 450 million euros in aid to Palestinians since the start of the conflict, and urged renewed diplomatic efforts.
“The Palestinian people deserve peace, dignity and statehood. And that is also the most sustainable path to security for the Israeli people,” he said.