America News Agency

The EU–Western Balkans Summit 2026 was held in Tivat, Montenegro, under the theme “Shared Prosperity and Stability of the EU and the Western Balkans.” Leaders of European Union institutions and Western Balkan countries attended the summit.

The meeting focused on the gradual, reform-based integration of the Western Balkans into the European Union. Leaders emphasized that enlargement is a geopolitical priority for the EU and noted that the process is merit-based and reversible.

EU representatives reviewed progress under the Western Balkans Growth Plan, designed to further integrate the region into the Single Market and accelerate economic convergence. It was also announced that negotiations had begun to expand the “Roam Like at Home” initiative for citizens.

Security and defense cooperation were also on the agenda. Joint areas of work concerning cybersecurity, combating disinformation, and strengthening resilience against hybrid threats were assessed.

EU leaders stressed that the Western Balkans are “an integral part” of Europe’s future and delivered a strong message of support for the integration process.