Italy Reaffirms Commitment to Western Balkans Amid Potential Trump Return

 Italy Reaffirms Commitment to Western Balkans Amid Potential Trump Return 

## **Italy and the EU Maintain Their Course**  

Italian Foreign Minister **Antonio Tajani** has reassured that **Italy and the European Union (EU) will remain committed** to the **Western Balkans**, regardless of whether **Donald Trump returns to the White House**. Speaking at a ministerial summit on the **Western Balkans in Rome**, Tajani emphasized that **Italy’s strategic direction remains unchanged**.  

*"Our commitment will not change; we are continuing on our path,"* Tajani stated.  

## **NATO's Strong Presence and Italy’s Role**  

Tajani highlighted the **strong NATO presence** in the region, stressing Italy’s **determination to play a key role** in the Balkans, driven by both **historical ties and economic interests**.  

Additionally, he presented a **policy document** outlining **Italy’s concrete proposals** to accelerate the accession of candidate countries from the **Western Balkans** into the **EU**.  

## **Italy’s Strategy for Western Balkans Integration**  

According to an **official memorandum from the Italian Foreign Ministry**, the proposal focuses on three **core principles**:  

1. **Gradual Integration** – Prioritizing key sectors such as:  

   - **Cybersecurity**  

   - **Public administration reform**  

   - **Migration management**  

   - **Corporate cooperation**  

2. **Simplifying the Accession Process** –  

   - Removing unnecessary obstacles  

   - Preventing **political vetoes** that delay technical progress  

3. **Strategic Communication** –  

   - Enhancing public awareness about the **benefits of EU integration**  

## **Diplomatic Engagement with the EU**  

Tajani discussed these proposals with **EU Foreign Affairs Commissioner Kaja Kallas** and **EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kuss** during **bilateral meetings**. The document was also presented to representatives from **Albania, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Montenegro, and Serbia**, as well as EU nations with regional interests such as **Austria, Croatia, Greece, Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Slovenia**.  

## **What’s Next?**  

Italy's proactive stance demonstrates a **long-term commitment to stabilizing and integrating the Western Balkans** into the European framework, regardless of **potential shifts in U.S. foreign policy**. With a strong **NATO presence** and strategic economic partnerships, Italy and the EU are ensuring that **Western Balkan countries remain on track for EU membership**.  

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