European Council President Antonio Costa has announced that EU enlargement is the most significant geopolitical investment the bloc can make. Speaking at the European Policy Centre on the 68th anniversary of the Treaty of Rome, he confirmed plans to visit the Western Balkans in May.
“Enlargement is the EU’s best geopolitical investment. This is why I have visited Ukraine twice in the past four months, Moldova in March, and why the first summit I chaired was with the Western Balkans—a region I will visit in May,” Costa stated.
He emphasized that the EU must work decisively to integrate the Western Balkans, Ukraine, and Moldova, calling enlargement one of the Union’s greatest geostrategic achievements.
Highlighting European security, Costa declared, “Europe’s security begins in Ukraine,” stressing the need for the EU to provide consistent support to Kyiv to ensure a just and lasting peace. He also warned that without strong defense, peace remains an illusion.
“That’s why the EU must invest in defense capabilities, including air defense and collective security,” he added.
Costa also pointed out that economic prosperity is essential for strengthening security. He argued that investments in European defense would boost industry, technology, and job creation across the EU.
Concluding his speech, the European Council President underscored the necessity of a strong, economically resilient, and secure Europe capable of responding to global challenges while ensuring prosperity for its citizens.
