Brussels (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas will travel to Montenegro, Albania, Bosnia, and Herzegovina on her first visit to the Western Balkans from April 7 to 9.
The European Union has close ties with the Western Balkans partners, aiming to secure stable, prosperous, and well-functioning democratic societies on a steady path towards the EU.
How will Kaja Kallas strengthen ties with Montenegro and Albania?
In Montenegro, the High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy/Vice-President of the European Commission (HR/VP) will meet with President Jakov Milatović and Prime Minister Milojko Spajić. Kallas will engage with civil society organisations and attend a review of European Peace Facility-funded equipment with the Minister of Defence. A joint press conference featuring Prime Minister Spajić will take place at 10:40 AM and will be streamed live on EBS.
In Albania, she will meet with President Bajram Begaj and Prime Minister Edi Rama. A press conference featuring Prime Minister Rama will take place on April 8 at 10:25 AM and will be livestreamed on EBS.
Kallas is set to meet with Igli Hasani, the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, as well as Pirro Vengu, the Minister of Defence.
How does Kaja Kallas’ visit promote regional economic collaboration?
She will co-launch the first EU-Albania Security Dialogue alongside Ministers Hasani and Vengu. Furthermore, she will be present for the signing of the grant and loan agreements with the European Investment Bank aimed at developing the Durrës to Rrogozhinë railway. High Representative Kallas will also speak to university students and civil society members.
The High Representative will visit EUFOR Althea troops in Bosnia and Herzegovina and engage with the country’s Presidency members. Additionally, she will hold discussions with the Council of Ministers Chairwoman, Borjana Krišto, and Foreign Minister Elmedin Konaković.
What does the EU’s growth plan mean for the Western Balkans?
The European Commission, on 8 November 2023, adopted the Growth Plan for the Western Balkans. The Plan aims to integrate the Western Balkan partners into the EU’s single market, promote regional economic collaboration, deepen EU-related reforms, and improve pre-accession funding in view of reviving socio-economic convergence of the Western Balkans to the EU.
The Growth Plan encourages enlargement partners to prepare for EU membership by offering some benefits before full integration. This approach is expected to greatly speed up the enlargement process and boost their economies.
