(ANSA) - BELGRADE, MAY 12 - "The reunification of the Balkans in European history is a top priority for me and the Italian government. This is the most significant strategic investment for the EU. We must move faster! We can create a great area of stability, prosperity, and growth for our citizens and businesses." Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani stated this during his speech at the Friends of the Western Balkans ministerial meeting in Bratislava, emphasising that "for the first time in a decade, a new enlargement is within reach." "2026 is a cruaial year. There is a lot of work to do," he added. The Balkans are a priority area in the Internationalisation Action Plan that I launched to strengthen our partnerships with all major markets. We also want to strengthen our security partnership. Italy is at the forefront of Balkan security and stability, participating in NATO's KFOR mission and EU missions." (ANSA).