Italy and the Balkans: A Strategic Choice for Europe

Italy views the accession of Western Balkan countries to the European Union as a strategic imperative for the continent's future political strength and stability. Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani stressed that integrating the region is the most significant geostrategic investment of our time, directly linking security, competitiveness, and the EU's expansion.

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The Balkans belong to Europe's history, geography and political perspective.

"The Balkans belong to Europe's history, geography, and political perspective," Tajani stated, highlighting Italy's commitment as an Adriatic and Mediterranean nation. He emphasized that the security of maritime borders is intrinsically tied to the stability of the Balkan region. Italy firmly supports accelerating the accession process to reunite the European family and expand the zone of peace and opportunity.

Italy's dedication is demonstrated through extensive diplomatic efforts, including over a hundred high-level visits and initiatives since 2022. The country also champions the informal "Friends of the Balkans" group, uniting EU member states focused on the region. A recent meeting in Rome, attended by regional foreign ministers, underscored Italy's political will to reinvigorate the Balkan countries' European path.

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The security of our seas also depends on the stability of this region.

Tajani noted that accession requires fundamental reforms, including strengthening the rule of law, improving public administration, advancing digitalization, and enhancing institutional quality. Italy provides concrete support through Twinning and TAIEX programs, transferring expertise and capacity from member states to candidate countries. As the leading member state in deploying experts for these programs in the Balkans, Italy aims to ensure European integration yields tangible benefits for citizens and businesses even before formal accession.

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Accession requires fundamental reforms: the rule of law, efficient public administration, digitalization and quality of institutions.

Furthermore, Italy is a major economic partner for the region, with trade exceeding 10 billion euros annually and approximately 800 Italian companies operating there. These firms contribute to local development, skilled employment, and modernization. Italy's development cooperation also targets key areas like healthcare, infrastructure, energy, and training, reinforcing the belief that investing in the Balkans is investing in Europe's overall strength.

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Investing in the development of the Balkans means investing in the strength of Europe.