Western Balkan countries that want to join the European Union (EU) must change their mindset and overcome historical conflicts in order to build a common future, European Council President Antonio Costa said today in a speech at the Bled Strategic Forum.
"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. In the coming years, we must prepare the Union for enlargement – through reforms, budget adjustments and strengthening governance. Enlargement will not be easy. But it will be worth it," he said in Bled.
He described the EU's Growth Plan for the Western Balkans as a milestone that offers 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," said Košta.
In a speech marking the 20th anniversary of the Bled Forum, he advocated for a "more independent, resilient and sovereign Europe", especially in light of the recent EU-US trade agreement and diplomatic efforts to end Russian aggression in Ukraine.
"Trade is only one dimension of our relationship with the United States of America (US). Security – especially during a war on our doorstep – is an existential concern. Escalating tensions with a key ally over tariffs, while our eastern border is threatened, would be an unreasonable risk. That is why we have chosen diplomacy over escalation at this time. We have given space to dialogue, we have chosen restraint because we are responsible," said Košta.
He reiterated that Europe stands firmly with Ukraine, its largest donor since the beginning of the war - more than 170 billion euros have been allocated.
In the words of the President of the European Council, the EU stands for "a world in which peace is protected, partnerships are sincere and the principles of the United Nations Charter are respected, not only in words but also in deeds."
He called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and unhindered access to humanitarian aid to the population there.
"The EU has consistently condemned the terrorist attacks by Hamas on 7 October and continues to call for the unconditional release of all hostages. At the same time, the right to self-defence does not justify the indiscriminate destruction of civilian infrastructure, nor the collective punishment of entire populations. We must be unequivocal: International humanitarian law applies to all parties," he added.
He also said that the EU remains the leading donor to the Palestinian people - with more than 450 million euros in aid since the start of the Israeli war in Gaza.
"We actively support diplomatic efforts. The Palestinian people deserve peace, dignity and statehood. And that it is also the most sustainable path to security for the Israeli people. We believe that both are possible. But only if we act together – by engaging more actively with our partners in the region," said Košta.
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