site.btaMEP Ilhan Kyuchyuk: The Future of Europe Lies in Balkans

Bulgarian MEP Ilhan Kyuchyuk from the Renew Europe Group said the EU integration of the Balkans is not just a political issue, but a long-term cause backed by vision, commitment and trust. He hosted the Western Balkans Forum 2026: A New Chapter for Europe, which was held in Brussels.

Kyuchyuk stressed that the participation of representatives from European institutions, diplomats and experts in the discussions clearly shows that EU enlargement towards the Balkans remains a strategic priority for the Union. He also said that enlargement is not just a matter of geography or timelines, but of shared values, democratic standards and a common European future.

The MEP recalled his long-standing commitment to the European perspective of the region, including the EU MEETS THE BALKANS forum, which has brought together EU commissioners, foreign ministers, diplomats and leading experts in Sofia for several years. This initiative continues as a platform for dialogue, trust and policies in support of enlargement.

Key figures from the liberal political parties, the European Commissioner for Democracy, Justice, and the Rule of Law, Michael McGrath, MEPs and experts attended the event.