Leaders from the European Union and the Western Balkans gathered in Tivat, Montenegro, for a summit focused on EU enlargement and regional stability. The meeting included prominent figures such as French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. Security was heightened with increased police presence due to rising tensions between Serbia and Montenegro. The summit's discussions centered on the EU's commitment to the region, with a particular emphasis on economic and social reforms, security, and countering external influences, especially from Russia and China. European Council President Antonio Costa highlighted the importance of this summit, stating that the momentum for enlargement is real. The EU's six-billion-euro initiative aims to bolster economic growth in the Western Balkans, which comprises about 18 million people. While Albania and Montenegro are viewed as frontrunners for EU membership, Kosovo's lack of recognition by several EU states positions it further behind. The summit also addressed Serbia's ongoing challenges with democratic reforms and its controversial ties with Moscow, amidst domestic unrest and protests.