The Berlin Process meetings aim to ensure that the EU enlargement to the Western Balkans remains on the European agenda, and to bring the region concretely closer to European and global corridors through infrastructure, energy and economic projects, while at the same time increasing pressure on the countries in the region to maintain the positive reform momentum and to continue to address outstanding issues.

The meeting participants reviewed progress on the implementation of the agreements already adopted, which are aimed at a fully functioning regional common market, a prerequisite for the region's entry into the EU single market and for its EU accession process. They also discussed ways to strengthen cooperation within the Berlin Process in all areas – from regional economic integration to connectivity in all aspects, including civil society contacts, which would improve relations between the countries of the region and contribute positively to further enlargement steps.

The participants also exchanged views on the prospects for further economic convergence between the Western Balkans and the EU by using the existing instruments and on the announced new Growth Plan for the Western Balkans. Emphasis was placed on ways to reduce the development gap between the EU and the region, including through investment and the gradual integration of the region into EU sectoral policies.

State Secretary Štucin stressed the geostrategic importance of the EU's enlargement policy and pointed to the Bled Commitment: “The year 2030 is not a promise, but a mutual commitment”. He went on to underscore the need to take strategic decisions in the enlargement process, especially in the context of the opening of negotiations with Bosnia and Herzegovina. We look to the region to commit to reform, reconciliation and the resolution of outstanding issues. It is crucial to continue to strengthen regional cooperation, which allows for enhanced connectivity in different areas.

On the margins of the meeting, State Secretary Štucin met Deputy Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of Albania Megi Fino. They agreed that EU enlargement provides an important incentive for countries to implement reforms and that the countries in the region need a clear European perspective. In this context, State Secretary Štucin expressed Slovenia's support for Albania's further path towards the EU. He and Deputy Minister Fino confirmed that the relations between their two countries are very good and friendly.