After the summit, Plenković told reporters that it was in the interest of the youngest EU member state that its neighbouring countries are stable, functional, that they develop economically and that the social atmosphere is as good as possible.
The declaration adopted at the summit states that "the EU reaffirms its unequivocal support for the European perspective of the Western Balkans" and that it "reconfirms its commitment to the enlargement process".
Plenković stressed that the word 'enlargement' was mentioned for the first time in this declaration because it used to be taboo for some member countries.
He pointed out that Croatia had been committed to a reform of the election legislation in Bosnia and Herzegovina and reaching a consensus of all key political parties, institutions and stakeholders in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Of course, in a way that would ensure legitimate representation of all constituent peoples in the highest bodies of Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Croatian prime minister said.
EU and Southeast European leaders discussed the Union's stronger engagement in the region's economic recovery and sustainable development, strengthening political dialogue, regional and security cooperation, and emphasis was on the European perspective of those countries.
Some EU member states, including Croatia, Slovenia and Austria, warn that due to the EU's insufficient concern, Southeast Europe could fall under the influence of Russia and China, while the other group, led by France, is generally for enlargement but without the ambition to step up the process.
Text: Hina