BRUSSELS

EU ministers said that "in the current geopolitical context, European Union enlargement remains a top priority" after the General Affairs Council (GAC) meeting on Tuesday.

Ministers responsible for European affairs discussed preparations for the October 2025 European Council and exchanged views on the European Commission’s 2026 work program in Brussels, according to a statement.

As part of the council's annual rule of law dialogue, ministers reviewed general developments within the EU and discussed trends in candidate countries, including Albania, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia.

Danish Minister for European Affairs Marie Bjerre, speaking on behalf of the rotating presidency, said the discussions underline the EU’s commitment to ensuring that rule of law, a fundamental condition for membership under the Copenhagen criteria, is fully respected.

"In the current geopolitical situation, EU's enlargement is a top priority. The rule of law remains a fundamental condition for EU membership as part of the Copenhagen criteria that all new members must meet," Bjerre said.

"Rule of law is not just something for the accession process. It is a fundamental and defining value, when you are a member of the EU," she added.

The council also began preparations for the October European Council, reviewing the annotated draft agenda. Key topics include Russia's war in Ukraine, developments in the Middle East with a focus on Gaza, European defense and security, competitiveness, twin transition, housing, and migration.

Other discussions included reports by Poland on recent Russian drone violations of its airspace as well as the reaction of the Polish and allied military forces.

The council also adopted a recommendation on the gradual transition of Ukrainian displaced persons from temporary protection to other residence statuses.