EU Enlargement Push (Western Balkans): German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron urged faster EU enlargement at the EU-Western Balkans summit in Montenegro, backing “gradual integration” incentives like earlier single-market access and observers in EU institutions, while also calling to simplify the process. EU Connectivity for Businesses: The EU Council approved talks to extend “Roam Like at Home” to the Western Balkans (including North Macedonia), aiming to boost cross-border connectivity for citizens and companies. North Macedonia in the Mix: EU leaders reiterated that North Macedonia is among the six “WB6” candidates, with the country’s accession path still tied to reforms and political consensus. Local Business & Industry Link: Balkan Expo 2026 in the region is set to host B2B meetings with food-industry players and partners, highlighting ongoing trade and production ties relevant to North Macedonia’s exporters. Cyber Risk for Sensitive Sectors: The Silent Ransom Group (SRG) is shifting to fast-flux botnet infrastructure for data theft and extortion, with law firms flagged as targets—an issue for regional professional services and IT readiness. Energy & Investment Signals: EU summit discussions also tied enlargement urgency to energy security and migration routes, underlining why regional infrastructure and supply deals remain strategic.