Montenegro and Albania are at the forefront of the EU membership pursuit in the region, while other countries like Serbia, Bosnia, Kosovo, and North Macedonia are lagging behind.

The EU's interest in expanding its membership has intensified since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, driven by concerns over regional stability.

In addition to his visit to Montenegro, Costa also traveled to Kosovo to encourage progress in normalizing relations with Serbia, which is crucial for Kosovo's European aspirations.

The EU and the U.S. have urged both Kosovo and Serbia to implement previous agreements, including Serbia's recognition of Kosovo and the establishment of an Association of Serb-Majority Municipalities.

Costa urged local officials in Kosovo to follow through on agreements made two years ago regarding recognition and cooperation with Serbia, emphasizing their importance for Kosovo's European integration.

In discussions with Montenegro's President Jakov Milatovic, Costa noted the country's ambition to become the 28th EU member by 2028, reaffirming its commitment to ongoing reforms.

Montenegro, the smallest country in the Western Balkans with a population of over 600,000, has been a NATO member since 2013, moving away from its traditional ally, Russia.

During his visit on May 14, 2025, European Council President Antonio Costa praised Montenegro's progress toward EU membership, highlighting it as a prime example of the EU's enlargement momentum.

Costa emphasized that EU enlargement is essential for the geopolitical stability, peace, and prosperity of both the Western Balkans and Europe.