Soft measures implementation in the field of transport and energy to accelerate Western Balkans development

Bečići, Montenegro (26 May 2016) – Regional conference on the implementation of measures for the establishment of a functioning infrastructure network for connections in the field of transport and energy (the so-called, soft measures) is being held in Bećići 25 - 27 May 2016.

The key message of the regional conference is that further strengthening of cooperation of the region in the implementation of soft measures, particularly through the adoption of an adequate legislative framework, improving border infrastructure and the implementation of infrastructure projects will contribute to the improvement of transport and energy connections of the region, increasing the volume of trade in goods and services, the intensification of economic growth and development of this part of Europe and its rapid and better integration in the EU.

State Secretary for European Integration Aleksandar Andrija Pejović said that the infrastructure development and linking the region with the European Union are key preconditions for economic development of the countries of the Western Balkans.

"The implementation of soft measures will allow full and functional transport and energy connections of the Western Balkans and the efficient flow of goods, energy and passengers, which will create conditions for dynamic economic development of the region," Ambassador Pejović noted.

The conference is organised by the German Society for International Cooperation (GIZ) and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and European Integration, and includes representatives of relevant institutions from Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Kosovo, Macedonia, Serbia, as well as international organisations: SEETO, the Energy Community, the Regional Cooperation Council and the Regional Development Standing Working Group.