EU
#WB6: 'There is no other alternative, there is no plan B' - Tusk
Following the EU-Western Balkans summit Donald Tusk (pictured), president of the European Council, bemoaned the fact that it has taken so long since their first meeting in Thessaloniki fifteen years ago to meet again, writes Catherine Feore.
The EU reaffirmed its commitment to the six Western Balkan countries having what he called 'the European perspective'. Tusk said that the European Union is and will remain the most reliable partner of the entire Western Balkans.
Sofia Priority Agenda
Some practical measures were agreed to improve connections with and within the Western Balkans region. Erasmus+ will be doubled to allow more young people to study in the EU. Economic, digital and infrastructure connections should also be enhanced. Other measures include the lowering of roaming charges and more favourable conditions for private investments by providing better bank guarantees.
'They belong to our community'
Tusk said that the connectivity agenda was not an alternative, nor a substitute for enlargement, but a way to prepare citizens and businesses while they are waiting for full EU integration.He said he does not see any other future for the Western Balkans, other than one as part of the EU. Tusk said that 'There is no other alternative, there is no plan B. The Western Balkans are an integral part of Europe and they belong to our community.'
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