TIRANA, 10 March 2026 – European Council President Antonio Costa said the European Union must prepare for future enlargement.

Costa described the European Union as a project of reconciliation and peace. He stressed that enlargement remains closely linked to these values and represents the best geostrategic investment for the future.

He said he made enlargement one of his main priorities from the first day of his mandate. According to Costa, the policy strengthens democracy and the rule of law while expanding the space of shared values, prosperity, and responsibility.

Costa also noted that Ukraine’s application for membership has created new momentum for the enlargement process. The development also involves Moldova and the six partners in the Western Balkans, whose future lies within the European Union through a merit-based accession process.

Finally, Costa urged the European Union to take decisive steps in the coming years. He stressed the need to seize the current momentum while respecting the merit principle and acting with urgency.

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