The EU's Western Balkans Growth Plan, EC gives 158.9m euros for Albania, Montenegro and RMV

The European Commission's official page suggests it comes after the Commission's third request for payment and positive assessment of the steps implemented in the areas of business competitiveness and innovation in Albania and Montenegro, as well as education and digitalisation in northern Macedonia.

The total amount paid according to the Instrument, in line with the relevant packages, amounts to 212.8m euros for Albania, 89.3m euros for Montenegro and 142.1m euros for northern Macedonia.

In Albania, reforms assessed by the Commission include measures to improve the business environment, facilitate investments and innovation, and enhance access to finance, including for new businesses and companies active in green and digital sectors. Of the remaining 49m euros available, 22.8m euros will be transferred to the state budget, while remaining funds are made available for investment projects through the Western Balkans Investment Framework (ËBIF), depending on relevant approval procedures.

In Montenegro, the Commission praised reforms in the field of research and innovation, including support for scientists, businesses and research institutions, as well as further strengthening of the national innovation ecosystem. Of the 44.2m euros allocated, 20.6m euros will be transferred to the state budget, while remaining funds will be made available for investment projects via W. BIF.

In northern Macedonia, estimated reforms include measures to improve financing of primary and middle education and measures aimed at expanding access to digital infrastructure and IT equipment in schools. Of the 65.7m euros allocated, 30.6m euros will be transferred to the state budget, while remaining funds are made available for investment projects via the IBIF”, a European Commission report said.