Skopje, 24 September 2024 (MIA) – Minister of Economy and Labour Besar Durmishi participated Tuesday in the Western Balkans Economy Ministers Conference within the framework of the Berlin Process, which is being held in Berlin, Germany.

Economy Ministers discussed the topic “10 years Berlin Process - The Western Balkans as an economic area on the way to the EU” at the business forum, Ministry of Economy said in a press release.

During the conference which marked the 10th anniversary of the Berlin Process it was underscored that the Western Balkan region is experiencing a historic momentum regarding its European perspective, and that this initiative can create synergy between the individual efforts of the six Western Balkan countries as mechanism for preparing EU accession.

Within the panel on Common Regional Market - 10 years Berlin Process, Minister Durmishi highlighted three critical issues in the economic relations between the Western Balkans and the European Union that require political attention: infrastructure development, trade barriers and economic integration and rule of law and corruption.

“Addressing these issues through coordinated political action can significantly improve the economic landscape in the Western Balkans and accelerate their EU integration process,” Durmishi said.

He also referred to economic growth prospects of the Western Balkan countries, underscoring that the region has the potential for greater economic growth, but also faces many challenges.

“The region has a young population and an abundance of natural resources, offering opportunities in sectors such as agriculture, tourism, and renewable energy. Progress towards EU membership can enhance economic stability and attract investments by aligning the region with EU markets and standards. To attract more investments, we need to strengthen governance and the rule of law. We must improve infrastructure, enhance education and skill development, and promote sector-specific incentives,” Durmishi said, according to the press release.

The conference in Berlin was also attended by the Ministers of Economy from Albania, Serbia, Kosovo, Montenegro, and Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The Berlin process was set up in 2014 as a platform for high-level cooperation between high official representatives of the Western Balkan Six (WB6), consisting of Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia and Serbia, and their peers in Berlin Process host countries.

The Process also involves the EU institutions, international financial institutions and the region’s civil society, the Regional Youth Cooperation Office RYCO and businesses.

Photo: Ministry of Economy