At the opening of the Open Balkans Summit, underway in Belgrade, EU Commissioner for Neighbourhood and Enlargement, Olivér Várhelyi expressed, among others, his pleasure to see this continued commitment to regional cooperation and regional economic integration.

“I have supported the Open Balkans initiative since the beginning, since regional cooperation is the anchor of peace, stability and prosperity for the region and beyond. This is very necessary, especially in times of crisis”, Commissioner Várhelyi pointed out.

Further on, he said that “through the EU Economic and Investment Plan for the Western Balkans, the EU is offering to the region an investment package of € 29 billion, having the potential to transform the region and grow its economy to a high level of prosperity “.

According to the European Commissioner, the agreement reached last week on free movement between Serbia and Kosovo is a sign of hope that the Open Balkans Initiative will soon be implemented throughout the region.

“Let me remind you of some principles that would guarantee the success of the Open Balkans initiative.

First, it should be a step towards European integration, with the aim of a common regional market.

Secondly, it must remain open to all, in accordance with European standards and in accordance with your regional and international obligations.

Thirdly, EU standards should be at the heart of the initiative. Open agreements in the Balkans that meet EU standards move the region on the EU path. For these reasons, I am ready to help that the actions taken in this context are on the right path and bring you to the EU even faster”, underlined Várhelyi.

/Artan Pupa/