EU-Balkans Summit, 'partnership more important than ever'

(ANSA) - BELGRADE, DEC 18 - The strategic partnership between the European Union and the Western Balkans is more important than ever, given the radical change in the global geopolitical situation, Russia's aggression against Ukraine, and the conflict in the Middle East, as well as the start of the new EU leadership cycle." This is what is stated in the joint statement of the EU-Western Balkans summit. The text emphasises that "the future of the Western Balkans is in our Union" and notes that "there is a new dynamism in the enlargement process and significant progress since our last Summit." Regarding the Balkans' willingness to "commit to fundamental European values and principles," the text emphasises that "actions will speak louder than words, as partners take responsibility and implement necessary reforms, particularly in the field of fundamentals." The leaders then emphasised how the "European geopolitical context" necessitates "unity and solidarity" in strong support of Ukraine, and praise "the Western Balkan partners who are already fully aligned" with the EU's foreign and security policy, while urging those who have not yet done so to "follow their example." (ANSA).