The European Commission has unveiled its latest investment package under the EU’s Economic and Investment Plan for the Western Balkans, aimed at mobilizing 1.2 billion euros in investments. This new initiative focuses on three key priorities: environmental sustainability, enhanced transport infrastructure, and support for regional businesses.
Under the first priority, significant investments are earmarked for restoring water supply and sewage infrastructure in Montenegro and Bosnia and Herzegovina. The second priority targets improvements in railway infrastructure along Corridor X, including the high-speed connection between Belgrade and Velika Plana, which promises faster movement of passengers and cargo throughout the region. The third priority involves launching a new fund dedicated to fostering innovation and promoting green transformation among small and medium-sized enterprises in the Western Balkans.
This comprehensive package includes eight new projects spanning water supply, sewage systems, wastewater treatment, rail transport enhancements, and initiatives supporting green business transformation. The investments will be implemented through close collaboration with Western Balkan partners and international financial institutions.
Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, emphasized that this 1.2 billion euro package will significantly enhance regional connectivity through upgraded infrastructure. She highlighted the strategic importance of these investments in preparing Western Balkan economies for future EU integration, alongside necessary reforms and access to the single market.
The funding comprises 300 million euros in EU grants from the Instrument for Pre-Accession Assistance (IPA III), supplemented by additional contributions from EU member states and Norway, loans from international financial institutions, and contributions from Western Balkan economies.
The package received approval from the Operational Committee of the Western Balkans Investment Framework (WBIF) during its meeting on July 1-2. The Economic and Investment Plan for the Western Balkans (2021-2027) aims to stimulate long-term economic recovery, accelerate the region’s green and digital transformation, and foster closer regional cooperation and alignment with EU standards.
