“Berlin Plus”, German plan for Balkan

Hellbach says that the German Foreign Minister, Sigmar Gabriel, used the recent conference of “Aspen” Institute for Balkan to declare that Germany is loyal to the European perspective of these countries, also for Germany’s interest.

However, it is no secret that Balkan’s approach to the EU is going slow, since not all actors have true interest on the reforms.

“We know reforms are not easy and that the region needs more support on their path towards the EU”, Hellbach said, referring not only to political support, but also to the economic one, and to impulses for regional cooperation, reminding that the area has still a huge unexploited potential.

“After all, this is about citizens feeling directly the advantages for getting closer to the EU. We want to help with concrete projects, but this is not a one-way road. Minister Gabriel made it clear that the rule of law, human rights and fights against crime and corruption will have no tolerance”, said Christian Hellbach, coordinator for Western Balkan.

But what could be expected from Brussels and Berlin?

“There is no partner in the region who does more for Balkan than the EU and Germany. We support Balkan politically, financially and by transferring knowledge. We must not forget investment and trade. Economically, Western Balkan has been part of Europe for a long time now. The ‘Berlin Plus’ initiative will enlarge the support”, Hellbach said.

The projects supported the most are the ones improving cooperation and good relations, but above all, the ones that encourage the economic situation and create jobs. This includes the inter-regional initiatives, such as the highway between Serbia, Kosovo and Albania.

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