07.11.2019
The European perspective for the Western Balkan countries is an engine for reform and cooperation. The EU has a strategic interest in integrating the region. This is what Prime Minister Boyko Borissov said in Geneva during an official dinner with participants in the leaders meeting on the strategic dialogue for the Western Balkans. Prime Minister Borissov underlined Bulgaria's consistent efforts regarding the issue, focusing in particular on the huge amount of work done during the Bulgarian Presidency of the Council of the EU and on the upcoming Presidency of the Berlin Process, which we will hold together with the Republic of North Macedonia.
"We need to develop modern infrastructure, digital connectivity and people-to-people contacts. Investments in human capital and young people are also crucial for the future, "Prime Minister Borissov said. The Prime Minister put an emphasis on the extension of the trans-European transport network towards the region and the complete construction of Corridor No 8, which would connect the Black Sea to the Adriatic Sea, thus unlocking the potential market of 18 million consumers in the Western Balkans.
"When we talk about railways, highways and ports, we must also talk about digital infrastructure, which will accelerate economic growth and improve people's lives," Prime Minister Borissov added. He noted Bulgaria's support for the Western Balkans Digital Program, which earmarks € 30 million for the construction of broadband infrastructure in the region. The Prime Minister added that for 2019 our country has allocated BGN 3.41 million to the region as part of the official development assistance, and Bulgarian operators provide roaming packages for the Western Balkan countries at a single price up to five times lower, defined in the Digital Program.
As another key topic for the region, Prime Minister Borissov talked about energy security, connectivity and diversification. The Prime Minister emphasized the work of the Bulgarian Government on the construction of the gas interconnector between Bulgaria and Greece, as well as the Balkan Stream.
"We must make full use of the time until the Zagreb Summit and to continue our dialogue and enlargement efforts. We should not be discouraged regarding an issue as important to the future of the EU as the Western Balkans. Together, we must be determined and focused,we must continue working until the goal is achieved," Prime Minister Boyko Borissov concluded. He was certain that the common goal is for Europe to have stability, security and prosperity.
