Schallenberg pushes for EU integration: Western Balkans included by 2030!

Schallenberg pushes for EU integration: Western Balkans included by 2030!

In Rome on Monday, Austrian interim Chancellor Alexander Schallenberg met with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni for a crucial meeting on the future EU integration of the Western Balkans. Schallenberg emphasized that the enlargement of the European Union is not only a question of geopolitical stability, but also an essential security issue for Europe and especially for Austria. “Either we export stability and security or we risk importing instability,” he explained, while also presenting the initiative of the “Friends of the Western Balkans” group, launched in 2023 to promote the gradual integration of this region into the EU, as well krone.at reported.

Important topics of the negotiations

The talks centered not only on the integration of the Western Balkans, where Schallenberg aims for all countries in the region to become members of the EU by 2030, but also on significant bilateral issues. The two leaders discussed migration challenges and measures to strengthen security and defense policy. “Italy is an indispensable partner for us,” said Schallenberg, who underlined the strategic relationship with Italy as the basis for a strong Europe that resolutely faces the current challenges kleinezeitung.at reported.

Another challenging topic was the situation on the Brenner Pass and the further development of South Tyrol's autonomy. Schallenberg emphasized that the problems at the Brenner Pass can only be solved through dialogue and called for the progress made in the autonomy reform in South Tyrol to be implemented. This discussion highlighted the close connection between the two nations as they work together towards a stable and inclusive EU.