The deputy head of Polish diplomacy made note of the persistent threat to European security posed by Russia, which has been orchestrating destabilising actions across Europe over the last few years.

The Western Balkans are an important element of European security. That is why we should cooperate closer on countering hybrid threats as the enemies combine aggressive acts with FIMI tools to fuel polarisation and spread disinformation

- Deputy Minister Bosacki said, expressing readiness to support countries in the region in their fight against these threats.

The exchange of knowledge and good practice in making effective use of EU funds can be another key area of cooperation with Western Balkan states. A local government reform in Poland and the successful investment of EU funds on local and regional levels accelerated Poland’s development.

We believe that building strong local government can be the way for Balkan states as well. Poland is ready to share its experience in that matter

- the MFA deputy head said.

Deputy Minister Bosacki also commented extensively on the benefits of regional cooperation as a means for Western Balkan countries to overcome a range of structural deficiencies. He pointed to an undersea cable link between the power grids of Italy and Montenegro and measures to merge the electricity markets of Albania and Kosovo as relevant examples.

Such initiatives prove that regional energy integration can be developed ahead of joining the EU, enhancing energy security and building closer ties in the Western Balkans

- Deputy Minister Bosacki observed.

Poland remains a strong advocate of the EU enlargement to the Western Balkans. The EU enlargement policy continues as the most effective element of building an area of stability and prosperity on our continent.