In a joint declaration, the Heads of State and Government reiterated the importance of regional ownership and all-inclusiveness for a successful implementation of regional cooperation. They stressed the need to maintain close links between the SEECP and the RCC, as its operational arm, in these efforts.

Hido Biscevic Re-Appointed

Hido Biscevic was reappointed as the RCC Secretary General for the period until 31 December 2012.In his speach, Biscevic said that the countries of the region should join forces in addressing common development goals, especially in times of crisis.

“The current economic crisis and emerging new challenges must be seen as an impulse to a greater self-responsibility within our region. No one has the luxury of time. Stagnation, lethargy, prolonged strategic vacuum or frustrating status quo may be too costly and regrets may come too late,” warned Biscevic.

“By working closely with its members from South East Europe, the EU institutions and other international partners, the Regional Cooperation Council could offer an added value in translating this new climate of cooperation into a regional recovery and development approach, in particular in the priority areas of energy, infrastructure and transport, to complement the advancement towards European and Euro-Atlantic integration and respond to the economic and social needs of the region,” Biscevic closed.

Source: RCC.