News archive - Berlin Process: Summit 2021 states new commitment to continue economic cooperation and regional integration
Western Balkan Prime Ministers and EU leaders met at the 2021 Berlin Process Summit on 5th July. The event was organised virtually and was hosted by German Chancellor Angela Merkel, with the participants taking stock of the results of regional cooperation and outlining the future steps. In addition to regional leaders, EU officials and Chancellor Merkel, the Summit was also attended by President of France Emmanuel Macron, Prime Ministers of Italy, Bulgaria, Poland, Slovenia, Greece, Croatia and Chancellor of Austria.
Find below an extract of the article published by European Western Balkans.
According to Conclusions of the Summit released yesterday evening, the participants stressed the need for the continuation of the Berlin Process in order to harness the full potential of improved regional cooperation, also with a view to overcoming the socio-economic consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Participants emphasised that EU enlargement for the countries of the Western Balkans constitutes a strategic investment in peace, democracy, prosperity, security and stability in Europe, reconfirming the longstanding view that the future of the entire region lies within the EU.
Participants welcomed the announcement by Montenegro that the next Western Balkans Digital Summit, a flagship event of the regional economic integration agenda, will be held on 11-13 October 2021.
They concluded that corruption, money laundering and financial crime were shared security threats, and welcomed progress made by the Berlin Process Security Commitments Steering Group to enhance regional and international cooperation on preventing and combating drug smuggling, people trafficking, weapons trafficking and violent extremism.
Regarding the Civil Society and Think Tank Forum 202, participants welcomed the recommendations elaborated by the Forum’s ten working groups, with specific regard to the stronger inclusion of citizens in EU enlargement processes, the importance of reconciliation and free and independent media, the focus on the environment and energy transition, and the full integration of Roma and minorities.
President of the Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, and Commissioner for Neighbourhood and Enlargement, Olivér Várhelyi, participated in the Summit as well. the Commission reconfirmed its commitment to cooperation with and support for the region in its post-pandemic recovery through the Economic and Investment Plan, focusing on green and digital transition investments, smart mobility links, sustainable energy, digital infrastructure, and business sector development and human capital, including youth. The Commission also called for further progress in the region’s economic integration to reap the full benefits of the planned investments.
- EC
- Western Balkans
- General
Entry created by Admin WBC-RTI.info on July 9, 2021
Modified on August 2, 2021
