President Pirc Musar at the Brdo-Brijuni Summit: EU enlargement is a key geopolitical tool for regional stability

At the meeting, held under the slogan "Mutual Interests, Shared Commitments for a Common Future: Advancing Together Towards the EU," the leaders of the Western Balkan countries discussed the European perspective of the region, the strengthening of regional cooperation and common challenges such as climate change, digital security and brain drain.

In her address, President Pirc Musar emphasised that EU enlargement must remain high on the political agenda: "Enlargement is the most effective geopolitical tool for ensuring stability, peace and security in the region. Slovenia advocates for a faster and more effective process, but without lowering standards. Only a credible enlargement process can encourage genuine reforms."

She specifically highlighted the importance of the Growth Plan for the Western Balkans and its consistent implementation: "This plan brings tangible benefits to the region's citizens. However, success is only possible if reforms are carried out without delay. I strongly believe that the leaders of the Western Balkans are committed to their European path."

The President also touched on the situation of young people: "Their perspectives must be included in our decisions, as it is their future that is at stake. Too many of them are leaving the region due to a lack of opportunities at home. We must change this – reducing brain drain and creating circular migration must become a shared priority." This was also the topic of the meeting held prior to the leaders' summit by the directors of employment agencies from the countries participating in the Brdo Brijuni process. At the meeting, they committed to strengthening cooperation with the aim of promoting quality employment, enhancing job opportunities, improving the alignment of education and labour market needs, improving working conditions, creating an attractive social environment and developing programmes for the return of the talent.

At the summit in Durrës, the Brdo-Brijoni Process leaders adopted a joint declaration, reaffirming their support for the European perspective of the Western Balkans, their commitment to reconciliation, good neighbourly relations and efforts toward sustainable development. They also highlighted the importance of jointly addressing contemporary security challenges, cyber threats and the consequences of climate change.