Vienna:Austria has announced its intention to chair the Berlin Process in 2027, with a focus on advancing the integration of Western Balkan countries into the European Union. This initiative aims to enhance regional economic, political, and security cooperation to facilitate the EU membership process for these countries.
According to Wam, Austrian Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger emphasized the importance of a credible EU accession prospect for the Western Balkan countries, describing it as both a security necessity and an economic opportunity for Austria. She stated that by leading the Berlin Process, Austria aims to reaffirm its role as a reliable partner for the region in its EU accession journey.
Meinl-Reisinger outlined Austria's plan to promote a gradual accession model, which would offer Western Balkan countries increased access to the EU single market in return for progress in necessary reforms and strengthening the rule of law. The focus will be on enhancing cooperation in critical sectors such as the economy, energy, infrastructure, and security, which are vital for regional stability and development.
The Berlin Process, initiated in 2014 by Germany, seeks to bring the six Western Balkan countries—Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia—closer to the EU by promoting regional cooperation and integration in essential areas.