The negotiations between Serbia and Kosovo aimed at reaching a comprehensive agreement to normalise relations between the two states are to enter a new phase in September.

The EU-Western Balkans summit held on 17 May in Sofia is one example of the EU’s increasing interest in the Balkan states which aspire to membership.

Politicians in Kosovo and Serbia see the dialogue through the prism of the benefits they can get from Brussels and the EU member states.

The Macedonian government has moved away from a policy of reform towards reinforcing its autocratic system and consolidating society behind nationalist slogans.

The development of the ‘16+1’ format largely reflected China’s strategic aims defined at the beginning of the diplomatic offensive in the region.

Romania and Moldova have developed very strong ties, resulting mainly from many years of common history, language and cultural heritage.

Regardless of the limited effectiveness of activities carried out so far, China has continued its ‘16+1’ initiative.

Moscow wants to use Belgrade in its confrontation with the West, but Russia does not have much to offer to Serbia’s authorities.