Enlargement also a topic of the EU summit

The enlargement of the European Union and relations with the Western Balkans will also be the topic of the EU summit that started on Thursday evening in Brussels. However, there is no expected to be any extensive discussion on this topic as the leaders will announce a strategic discussion for the autumn. This is also seen in the draft declaration that is expected to be adopted at this summit.

The heads of state and government of EU member states are expected to confirm their readiness to deepen cooperation with the countries of the region and to support them in their reform efforts on the path to EU membership.

"The European Council remains committed to advancing the gradual integration of the countries of the European Union and the region during the enlargement process itself, based on the principle of individual merits and in a reversible manner," the draft conclusions state, among other things.

Gradual integration is a concept that is being discussed informally, but it is expected that these ideas will be discussed more during the fall.

The leaders are also expected to give their assessments of the recent summit between the EU and the Western Balkans held in Tivat, Montenegro.

Referring to this summit, European leaders will assess, through their conclusions, that this meeting has created a new impetus for the enlargement process. Therefore, they will announce a strategic debate on enlargement and reforms at the October summit.