The aim of the follow-up event is to assess the current status of the project and discuss future steps in developing the Regional Strategy. The participants are expected to form a project coordination body, in compliance with the Joint Statement adopted at the Ministerial Conference, which will be in charge of Strategy production.

The event aims to gather experts from ministries of science and research of the RCC members from South East Europe (SEE), including Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Montenegro, Serbia, The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia and UNMIK/Kosovo, members of scientific institutions from the region, and representatives of relevant international organisations and stakeholders. Project coordinator Elke Dall of the Centre for Social Innovation participates on behalf of WBC-INCO.NET.

The Regional Strategy for Research and Development for the Western Balkans aims to increase knowledge transfer trough boosting networks and capacities of researchers and scientists from the Western Balkans, and within the entire SEE; to enhance cooperation of the science, research and education communities with the business sector; and to create cross-border regional clusters in competitive sectors to pave the way for the establishment of competitive regional centres of excellence.

Source: http://www.rcc.int/index.php?action=press_detail&id=96, as accessed on Sept. 7, 2009.