Costa ahead of regional visit: I firmly believe the future of the Western Balkans lies in the EU

President of the European Council Antonio Costa stated ahead of his visit to the region that he firmly believes the future of the Western Balkans lies in the European Union, and that his visit aims to encourage regional partners to seize the opportunity and continue pursuing reforms.

“This week, I’m traveling to the Western Balkans. It is my first visit to our six partners in the region since taking office as President of the European Council. One of my top priorities is enlargement. I firmly believe that the future of the Western Balkans lies in the European Union,” Costa said in a video message posted on the social media platform X.

He emphasized that EU membership is the best way to turn a new page and build a shared future of peace, stability, and prosperity.

“I want to encourage our partners in the region to make the most of this opportunity and to persist in pushing forward with reforms. I know it’s not easy — there is a lot of work and many challenges along the way. But the goal is crystal clear: to become part of the EU family. Achieving that means staying committed, putting in the effort, and upholding European values,” Costa said, adding that he looks forward to visiting Belgrade, Sarajevo, Podgorica, Pristina, Skopje, and Tirana.

Costa will begin his first visit to the region in Belgrade, where he will be hosted by the President of Serbia, Aleksandar Vucic.