European Commission spokeswoman Ana Pisonero said that the leaders of the Western Balkans must make progress in implementing the Common Regional Market. This is an initiative created at the Sofia Summit in 2020 in the framework of the Berlin Process.

Pisonero said the lack of progress in implementing the Regional Common Market has hindered significant benefits, especially for businesses, investors and consumers.

Asked about the European Commission’s position on the Open Balkans initiative in light of the presence of European Commissioner Olivér Várhelyi at the Balkan Open Summit in Ohrid on Wednesday, Pisonero said the Commission welcomed the Open Balkans participants’ commitment to promote greater regional integration, but it remains clear that “the greatest benefits will come from six countries”.

“The leaders of the Western Balkans must make progress in implementing the Common Regional Market, established at the Sofia Summit in 2020, with the constructive commitment of all parties. This is important to realize the full benefits of regional integration, to make the best use of investments under the Economic and Investment Plan and to better connect the whole region with the EU single market. In this context, while advancing the Common Regional Market remains a priority, the Open Balkans Initiative has the potential to accelerate the region’s economic integration,” said Pisonero.

She also encouraged participants to make full use of existing structures, such as CEFTA and the Regional Cooperation Council, to leverage their expertise and knowledge.

The EU, Pisonero said, will continue to support the Regional Co-operation Council, CEFTA, the Transport and Energy Communities to bring benefits to the whole WB and beyond through enhanced regional co-operation.

/Klara Ruci/