The Communication on EU Enlargement Policy highlights the strategic importance of EU enlargement for fostering long-term stability, peace, and prosperity in Europe. EU membership is seen as a critical investment in promoting democracy, the rule of law, and respect for fundamental rights, driving transformation and enhancing security across the continent. The geopolitical significance of enlargement was underscored in 2022 when Ukraine, Moldova, and Georgia applied for EU membership amidst Russia's aggression, leading to candidate status for Ukraine and Moldova. As enlargement remains a merit-based process, countries like the Western Balkans, Turkiye, Ukraine, Moldova, and Georgia have a unique opportunity to integrate with the EU, provided they implement essential reforms, particularly in the rule of law, democratic governance, and align with EU foreign and security policies.