Italy’s Foreign Minister Prioritizes Balkan EU Membership

Italy’s Foreign Minister, Antonio Tajani, emphasized the importance of prioritizing the accession of Balkan countries to the European Union. During an interview with the Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera, Tajani stated that Italy is committed to supporting Ukraine’s EU membership but insists that the Balkan nations should take precedence due to existing obligations.

Tajani’s remarks come as the EU continues to navigate its expansion strategies. He highlighted that while support for Ukraine remains critical, the bloc has specific commitments to its Balkan neighbors. “We support Ukraine’s accession to the European Union, but the Balkans are our first priority, as we have certain obligations towards these countries,” Tajani explained.

His comments align with the broader EU perspective on membership, particularly in light of previous discussions surrounding Ukraine’s potential timeline for joining. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has expressed skepticism regarding Ukraine’s EU membership prospects, explicitly ruling out a possible accession by 2027. This sentiment has been echoed by officials from Hungary, Poland, and Austria, who share similar views on the challenges facing Ukraine in its EU journey.

The Balkan region, which includes countries such as Montenegro, Serbia, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and North Macedonia, currently holds official candidate status for EU membership. Additionally, Georgia and Moldova have also been recognized as candidates. The EU’s engagement with these nations remains a vital aspect of its foreign policy, especially in light of geopolitical shifts in Europe.

Tajani reiterated Italy’s commitment to providing ongoing assistance to Ukraine, emphasizing that “Kyiv must find its own path toward EU membership.” This assertion reflects a growing understanding among EU leaders of the complex dynamics at play, as they balance the aspirations of Eastern European nations with the established interests of existing member states.

The future of EU expansion remains uncertain, with varying opinions on how quickly new members can be integrated. As discussions continue, the focus on the Balkans as a priority underscores the region’s strategic significance within European politics. Tajani’s statement serves as a reminder that the EU’s enlargement process will require careful consideration of both historical obligations and contemporary geopolitical realities.