The European Commission has initiated key measures to release initial payments to Western Balkan countries from the Growth and Reform Plan, approving reform agendas for Kosovo, Albania, North Macedonia, Montenegro, and Serbia during the October 23 meeting.

The Commission highlighted that this decision followed the endorsement from EU member states for these agendas.

Bosnia and Herzegovina is the only country without an approved reform agenda, as it was the only one not to submit its agenda on time.

“In their ambitious reform plans, the five governments of the Western Balkans express their commitment to fundamental socio-economic reforms that they will undertake to ensure growth and convergence with the EU under the Growth Plan, covering the period from 2024 to 2027,” said the EU’s announcement.

The Growth Plan has a total value of 6 billion euros, with 2 billion in non-repayable funds and the rest in the form of favorable loans.

On a per capita basis, Kosovo will be the largest beneficiary of this package, receiving over 820 million euros.

The approval of the reform agendas was also praised by the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen.

“I am impressed with the work our partners in the Western Balkans have done on their reform agendas. This shows their commitment to the success of the Growth Plan. It is a roadmap for bringing the Western Balkan economies closer to us and giving their businesses the access and tools to compete in our single market. Everyone benefits, and it is a big step towards the EU,” von der Leyen stated.

The reform agendas target key priority areas, including the rule of law, fundamental rights, governance, digital and green transitions, human capital development, and fostering a business-friendly environment.(REL)

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