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EU Enlargement: A Win-Win for Europe’s Future

The European Commission presented its annual enlargement package to the European Parliament’s Committee on Foreign Affairs - charting the next steps for candidate countries and setting the strategic direction of EU enlargement.

In times of geopolitical uncertainty, EU enlargement is more than a political project - it’s a strategic necessity. It strengthens Europe’s stability, security and competitiveness. It drives growth, opens markets and generates new opportunities for trade and investment.

For example:

  • Ukraine has shown remarkable reform momentum even under the most challenging conditions. The new package recognises that accession is not just a future-vision but a strategic anchor for the country’s security and its alignment with the EU’s values.
  • In the Western Balkans, including Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo and Albania, the Commission’s assessment highlights both progress and reform-needs across fundamentals such as rule of law, transparency and institutional resilience.

Leaders across Europe voiced at the Euronews Enlargement Summit the same call.
“Let’s enlarge Europe – now!” — Pedro Vargas David, Euronews
“Enlarging is the best investment we can make today for tomorrow. Ukraine, Moldova and the Western Balkans belong to Europe.” — António Costa Council, President of the European Council
President Zelenskyy reaffirmed Ukraine’s reform drive and called for equal EU membership - not semi-membership.

Thank you Euronews for organizing this highly relevant event.

At Raiffeisen Bank International AG we are present across Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Albania and Ukraine. Our investment is rooted in the belief that these countries are not simply beneficiaries of enlargement - they are also dynamic partners shaping Europe’s future. Our commitment is long-term because we see their path to the EU as integral to our shared stability and growth.

Let’s continue to support Europe’s next chapter - one that is stronger when inclusive, resilient and forward-looking.

  • A formal conference scene shows a suited speaker standing at a clear podium on a stage. Behind him, a large screen displays a person speaking remotely in front of a Ukrainian flag and camouflage backdrop. The stage backdrop reads "The Europe Conversation" with bright blue and green lighting. The audience is visible in silhouette, emphasizing the event’s public and political nature. The overall atmosphere is serious and focused on European and Ukrainian topics.
  • Paul Pasquali formally dressed, takes a selfie in front of a conference stage. The stage backdrop prominently displays the text "The Europe Conversation" with large star graphics. Rows of seated participants face the brightly lit speakers on stage in a modern auditorium. Cool blue and purple lighting creates a professional yet dynamic atmosphere. The scene suggests a high-profile discussion or panel focused on European topics.
  • A suited speaker stands at a podium addressing an audience during a formal conference. Behind him, a large illuminated screen displays the text "EUROPEAN ENLARGEMENT SUMMIT" and "Pedro Vargas David Chairman of the Boards of Directors" alongside a portrait of a man in a suit. The stage is lit with blue lighting and features multiple "euro news." panels. Silhouetted attendees are visible in the foreground, emphasizing the professional setting.
  • A formal conference stage is set for the European Enlargement Summit. A speaker stands at a podium on the left, addressing the audience in front of a large illuminated backdrop. The backdrop displays the text "EUROPEAN ENLARGEMENT SUMMIT" and "Antonio Costa President of the European Council" alongside a blurred portrait. Multiple blue screens with the "euro news." text are visible across the stage. The overall atmosphere is professional and political, with blue lighting and European flag imagery.