Leaders of the six Western Balkans countries met in Skopje on Monday to reaffirm their commitment to swift implementation of the European Union’s Growth Plan, aimed at accelerating regional integration and economic convergence with the bloc.
EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos joined heads of government from Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia and Serbia for the high-level meeting. The gathering marked a key milestone since the plan was launched in 2023 to advance reforms and enhance connectivity in areas such as finance, transport, the digital economy, and regional market integration.
Officials reviewed progress made over the past year and agreed to maintain regular meetings to sustain momentum. A follow-up summit is expected this autumn.
“The Growth Plan offers a unique opportunity for the Western Balkans to advance faster on their EU path and improve the lives of citizens,” Kos said.
The EU Growth Plan provides up to €6 billion in financial support, linked to measurable reform efforts by the six aspiring member states.
[Source: European Commission, July 1, 2025.