The Council of the European Union reaffirmed its commitment to the enlargement process on December 17, describing it as a geo-strategic investment in peace, security, stability and prosperity.

After years of slow progress, the enlargement process has been revitalised since the start of the war in Ukraine, with Bosnia & Herzegovina, Georgia, Moldova and Ukraine all admitted as candidate countries since 2022, while existing candidates such as Albania have advanced towards membership. 

In conclusions adopted on December 17, the General Affairs Council underscored the importance of fair and rigorous conditionality, merit-based progress, and the EU's capacity to integrate new members while sustaining its development. This stance aligns with the principles outlined in the 2006 renewed consensus on enlargement.

“Aspiring members need to step up their reform efforts, notably in the area of rule of law, in line with the merit-based nature of the accession process and with the assistance of the EU,” the Council stated.

It also urged candidate countries to address bilateral disputes and unresolved issues from the past in accordance with international law and established principles, including the Agreement on Succession Issues.

Highlighting the geostrategic value of enlargement as a cornerstone of peace, security, and prosperity, the Council reaffirmed its unequivocal commitment to the EU membership aspirations of the Western Balkans, Ukraine, and Moldova. It urged partner countries to demonstrate political will and tangible progress in implementing necessary reforms.

Regarding Montenegro, the Council praised the country’s achievements in reform implementation and encouraged all political forces to support the government's ambitious plan to close accession negotiations swiftly.

The Council called on Serbia and Kosovo to sustain de-escalation efforts, avoid divisive rhetoric, and uphold their obligations under dialogue agreements. It emphasised the need for a sustainable solution in northern Kosovo that ensures security and participatory democracy for all citizens.

The Council commended Albania’s progress, including the recent opening of the fundamentals and external relations negotiating clusters, and encouraged continued reforms to advance its EU path.

While welcoming the commitment of North Macedonia's new government to EU integration, the Council expressed concern over the delay in constitutional changes promised in the July 2022 conclusions. It urged accelerated implementation to enable the opening of the first negotiating cluster.

The Council welcomed the European Council’s decision in March 2024 to open accession negotiations with Bosnia & Herzegovina, following the Commission’s recommendation.

The Council also praised Kosovo’s reform efforts and the recent implementation of visa liberalisation for its citizens. It reiterated EU support for Kosovo’s continued reforms on its European path.