EU Council adopts a plan worth 6 billion euros for Western Balkans to speed up enlargement process
BRUSSELS (AP) — EU countries approved a plan worth 6 billion euros ($6.45 billion) to support Western Balkan states on Tuesday aimed at accelerating reforms and economic growth in the region, as they seek future membership in the bloc.
The Council of the European Union said the plan, which covers the period from 2024 to 2027, is expected to provide up to 2 billion euros in grants ($2.15 billion) and 4 billion euros ($4.3 billion) in loans. Aid is contingent on reforms that would bring Western Balkan economies in line with EU rules.
“The facility will support a range of socio-economic and fundamental reforms, including reforms related to the rule of law and fundamental rights,” the Council said.
The region’s six countries — Albania, Bosnia, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia and Serbia — are at different stages in their applications for membership, but residents have been frustrated with the slow pace of the process. Croatia was the last country to be accepted by the EU in 2013.
Related articles
Maternal deaths have fallen to pre
NEW YORK (AP) — U.S. deaths of moms around the time of childbirth have fallen back to pre-pandemic l2024-05-08China prepares to launch Tianzhou
Photo taken on May 16, 2021 shows the combination of the Tianzhou-2 cargo spacecraft and the Long Ma2024-05-08China State Shipbuilding Corp wins world's first ammonia
China State Shipbuilding Corp has obtained an order to sell its ammonia powered container ships to B2024-05-08Airlines see significant recovery in bookings
The eight-day Spring Festival holiday that lasted from Feb 10 to Saturday, coupled with relaxed visa2024-05-08Chinese cars gain popularity in Botswana
GABORONE, May 4 (Xinhua) -- At the 9th edition of the Shell Gaborone Motor Show in Gaborone, the Bot2024-05-08Air travel surges thanks to Spring Festival and visa policies
The eight-day Spring Festival holiday that lasted from Feb 10 to 17, coupled with the relaxed visa p2024-05-08
atest comment