Pacolli in Sofia: Political disputes are hampering economic co-operation

Deputy Prime Minister Behgjet Pacolli has participated in the World Economic Forum, which is being held under the EU Summit and Western Balkans in Sofia, Bulgaria.

Pacolli has said that regional co-operation in the Western Balkans is key to exploiting the economic potential of our region.

“After seeing a revitalisation of relations between the EU and the Western Balkans, we need to make better use of the moment. The Western Balkans are still up in the EU agenda”, Pacolli said.

However, according to him, bilateral differences at the political level still remain an obstacle.

“Fokus should be in removing barriers and allowing free movement of investments, goods and people. A clear prospect of EU membership for Western Balkan countries could speed up reforms in the countries of the region. But the clear European perspective is also competition for more investments. It is important that the EU take a bold stand and say that the six Western Balkan countries will join the EU at the same time. This will encourage the spirit of true regional co-operation, as a state's success depends on the success of its neighbours. Therefore, we must eliminate all elements of competition between our states”, he added.

Pacolli, has stressed that Kosovo will remain committed to good co-operation and neighbourhoods among all Western Balkan states.