EU Council adopts a plan worth 6 billion euros for Western Balkans to speed up enlargement process
Time:2024-05-07 20:10:04 Source:travelViews(143)
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.
You may also like
- North Dakota state rep found guilty of misdemeanor charge tied to budget votes and building
- Woman burned during beauty treatment: 'It was really terrifying'
- Live export ban petition passes 20,000 signatures, organiser wants five times that
- Cluster fears over new HK virus cases
- Aaron Taylor
- Call for schools soft drink ban renewed after government implements cellphone ban
- MBIE calls on staff again to apply for voluntary redundancies
- Lack of reliability with trains sees Auckland commuters opt for the bus
- Biden recognizes US Military Academy with trophy for besting other service academies in football