The EU’s Economic and Investment Plan for the Western Balkans possesses significant transformative potential and is capable of reshaping the region’s economic landscape and fostering closer integration with the European Union. Nevertheless, inherent intricacies may influence its future outcomes
The Economic and Investment Plan adopted by the European Commission outlines ambitious goals for the Western Balkans, emphasising economic alignment with the EU single market, climate objectives and sustainable growth. The EU’s commitment includes a substantial financial package of up to €9 billion, with the potential to mobilise an additional €20 billion through the Western Balkan Guarantee Facility. The Growth Plan focuses on enhancing economic integration with the EU, boosting regional economic cooperation, expediting fundamental reforms and increasing financial assistance. Our interlocutors for this edition’s Focus recognise the transformative potential of the EU’s Economic and Investment Plan for the Western Balkans and its ability to reshape the economic landscape of the region and propel it towards closer integration with the European Union, dissecting the intricacies of this transformative initiative and its implications for the future of the region.