European Union leaders are gathering in Montenegro for the annual EU-Western Balkans summit, with enlargement high on the agenda. Montenegro is seen as the frontrunner among six candidate countries, having pursued membership for 22 years.

Brussels views expansion as a response to new geopolitical challenges, including security and economic threats from Russia and China, as well as growing hostility from the US regime. The summit is attended by French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni, and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

Leaders of candidate countries – Albania, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Kosovo, North Macedonia, and Serbia – are also present. They are expected to sign a Franco-German initiative aimed at injecting momentum into the accession process, offering incentives such as privileged access to the EU single market and observer status in EU institutions.

European Council President Antonio Costa described enlargement as “the most important geopolitical investment” and a “geostrategic necessity.” Montenegrin President Jakov Milatovic set a target of joining the EU by 2028, calling the summit the “most significant international event in modern Montenegro.”

German Chancellor Merz is keen to keep Western Balkan nations committed to EU accession and discourage them from turning to Russia or China. Meanwhile, Ukraine is allegedly being offered accelerated “associate membership,” which may cause resentment among Balkan candidates who perceive preferential treatment for Kyiv.

Source: www.dw.com