A grant agreement ceremony initiated by the World Bank and the European Union for a safe and sustainable transport program was held in Tirana.
The agreement was signed during the summit titled “Growth Plan – Our Path to the EU” in Albania’s capital.
Valentina Superti, the director for the Western Balkans at the Directorate-General for Enlargement and Neighbourhood Policy of the European Commission, highlighted that the 54 million euro fund will enhance road and rail safety, boost technical capabilities, digitize systems, and widen lanes.
This funding is part of a larger total of 134 million euros in EU support since 2023.
“This fund underlines the European Union’s commitment to this program and will improve traffic flow at border points, thereby fostering regional trade,” stated the European Commission representative.
Xiaoqing Yu, the World Bank director for the Western Balkans, expressed hope for continued collaboration with the EU, noting that this new grant underscores the commitment to transportation development in the region.
She indicated that this initiative is just the beginning, with further projects anticipated to enhance infrastructure and regional transport capabilities.
The Transport Facilitation Program 2 exemplifies support for the region’s integration into the EU, aiming for a safer, more digital, and efficient transport network across the Western Balkans.
The summit “Growth Plan – Our Path to the EU” in Tirana convened leaders from the Western Balkans and senior EU officials. Discussions focused on strategies to expedite the implementation of the EU Growth Plan and how this process can benefit the citizens of the Western Balkans. (November 25)
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