Plenković discusses EU membership progress with Costa amid ongoing tensions

On December 10, 2024, Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković engaged in a phone conversation with Antonio Costa, President of the European Council. The discussion focused on the advancements made by Western Balkan countries in their efforts to secure membership in the European Union. This communication came as both leaders prepared for the upcoming EU-Western Balkans summit set to take place on December 18 in Brussels. During the conversation, Plenković articulated Croatia’s perspectives on the negotiation progress of these countries and emphasized the necessity of continued support for Ukraine amid heightened geopolitical tensions in the region. The dialogue also touched on the situation in the Middle East, indicating a broader focus on international affairs beyond just European integrations. The meeting between Plenković and Costa reflects ongoing European Union initiatives to integrate the Western Balkans, which include Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Serbia, North Macedonia, Albania, and Kosovo, into the EU framework. The involvement of EU leaders in discussions surrounding the progress of these nations conveys the significance the Union places on stabilizing and incorporating the Western Balkans into its political and economic systems. The forthcoming summit in Brussels is particularly notable as it is seen as a pivotal moment for the aspirations of these countries to join the EU. Costa’s role as the newly appointed President of the European Council signifies a fresh approach and commitment to strengthening ties with the Western Balkans, underscored by his recent meetings with leaders from these nations. The EU’s facilitatory efforts are crucial, considering the historical context of the region, which has grappled with political instability and the quest for economic advancement. Following the summit, it is anticipated that new policy frameworks and collaborative strategies may emerge, potentially paving the way for more structured assistance and membership paths for the Western Balkans. The outcomes of such discussions not only carry implications for regional stability but could also reshape the broader European landscape if integration efforts were to make significant strides forward. The summit marks a key juncture for the Western Balkans on their journey towards realizing their European aspirations and demands attention from stakeholders both within and outside the EU.