The extension of the European integration perspective to Ukraine, Moldova, and Georgia, known as the Trio, occurred shortly after the introduction of the idea of ​​a gradual integration of the Western Balkan candidate countries into certain EU policies and sectors. This gradual integration is based on existing bilateral agreements between the candidate countries and the EU, namely the Stabilization and Association Agreements and the Accession Agreements/Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area. In this context, the project aims to compare the two types of agreements, highlighting their differences and opportunities, in order to propose concrete solutions for gradual integration. The research also intends to explore the proposal for an earlier integration of these countries into the European cohesion policy, in order to reduce potential externalities resulting from the candidates' gradual accession to the European single market.