Costa: Western Balkans enlargement is EU's 'most important' investment

European Council President Antonio Costa said Thursday in Belgrade that the European Union's enlargement to the Western Balkans represents the bloc's most important geopolitical investment, stressing continued commitment to Serbia's European perspective amid global uncertainty and economic instability.

Speaking alongside Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic during a joint news conference, Costa stated that Brussels was "not blackmailing" Belgrade or placing obstacles in its path toward membership. "We are not blackmailing Serbia," he said, adding that the process requires close cooperation between EU institutions and Serbian authorities rather than unilateral demands.

Geostrategic necessity

Costa emphasized that enlargement constitutes a geostrategic necessity for Europe rather than merely an opportunity, noting that the EU remains Serbia's most significant partner in trade and investment. "The pace of progress depends on Serbia's own resolve," he said, urging Belgrade to demonstrate decisive action while the window for accession remains open.

Rule of law reforms urged

The European Council chief further stressed the need for Serbia to accelerate reforms regarding rule of law, media freedom and the electoral framework, alongside fostering regional cooperation and aligning with EU foreign and security policies. He highlighted that enlargement is built on mutual trust and serves as an investment in the continent's peace, stability and prosperity.

Costa's visit to the Serbian capital comes as Belgrade continues its longstanding negotiations on EU membership while navigating complex regional dynamics. Western Balkans enlargement has gained renewed urgency amid broader geopolitical shifts and Russia's ongoing war in Ukraine, which has reshaped security calculations across the continent.