Brussels, 1 October 2021 (MIA) – On 6 October, the EU – Western Balkans summit will be a timely opportunity to recall the strategic importance of the Western Balkans for the Union, key stakeholders will present their views on fostering the region’s socio-economic recovery, while EU and Western Balkans leaders will have the opportunity to address how to further deepen political dialogue, strengthen regional cooperation and resolve regional conflicts, said European Council President Charles Michel in an invitation letter to participants in the summit. According to Michel, In the first session, key stakeholders for the region the Regional Cooperation Council, the European Investment Bank, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development and the World Bank, will present their views and the focus will be on intensifying engagement to foster the region's socio-economic recovery and sustainable development. He pointed out that participants will also discuss “building back better after the pandemic on the basis of the Economic and Investment Plan for the Western Balkans.” “In the second session, reserved to Leaders both from the EU and the Western Balkans, we will have the opportunity to address how to further deepen our political dialogue, security cooperation and strategic engagement, reaffirming our shared commitment to work towards strong, stable and united Europe,” the European Council President says. In addition, Michel notes that during a working dinner on October 5, participants will have a strategic discussion on the role of the Union on the international stage in light of recent developments in Afghanistan, the AUKUS security partnership and the evolution of EU relations with China. “As we agreed in the Strategic Agenda 2019-2024, we need to pursue a strategic course of action and increase our capacity to act autonomously to safeguard our interests, uphold our values and way of life, and help shape the global future,” says Michel. The President of the European Council points out “this requires that the EU becomes more assertive and effective,” adding that relations with strategic partners, including transatlantic partners and emerging powers have to be a key component of a robust foreign policy. “Our objectives in these respects have not changed, but recent developments require us to reflect on how best to achieve them,” he adds. “Having a common understanding of the global challenges and the way to address them remains key, whether it includes climate, energy, trade or security. As always, unity remains our most important asset,” European Council President Michel stresses.