Albania recently hosted the Growth Plan Summit titled “Our Road to the EU,” which gathered leaders from the Western Balkans, EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos, and high-ranking officials from the European Commission and regional organizations. The discussions centered on the Growth Plan, economic integration, and the region’s transition towards joining the European Union Market.
In her opening remarks, Commissioner Marta Kos stated that a secure Europe cannot be achieved without the Western Balkans, urging the need to rectify past oversights. This summit follows the publication of the EU’s enlargement package, which she indicated has revitalized the enlargement process.
Kos highlighted the purpose of the meeting as an opportunity to evaluate progress on the Growth Plan and identify areas needing improvement. In a joint press conference with Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama after the summit, she stressed the significance of the upcoming months for the integration of Western Balkan countries. The approaching expiration of a one-year transitional period for unmet reforms in June was underscored, with Kos calling for intensified efforts from regional leaders.
She pointed out the progress made regarding roaming charges, stating that there are no additional fees for international calls within the EU, emphasizing the need for alignment with EU regulations. Regarding trade and transport infrastructure, Kos noted the ongoing implementation of green corridors and highlighted agreements on common crossing points between the EU and the Western Balkans.
Kos expressed that the region must persist in its internal reforms. She stated, “We have two years left for the Growth Plan to succeed and prepare the ground for your EU membership. We must seize every day to work for the European future of the Western Balkans.”
Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama added that the new EU Growth Plan serves as a swift and secure link to the common European market. He mentioned the summit’s focus on assessing the outcomes of joint initiatives and reaffirmed the commitment to adhere to the timelines set out in the Growth Plan. Rama characterized the meeting as productive, noting the concrete steps taken to advance the region’s integration into the EU.
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