The EC announced a sixth investment package for the Western Balkans in the amount of 1.2 billion euros

The European Commission (EC) announced the sixth investment package under the EU Investment Plan for the Western Balkans, which is expected to provide 1.2 billion euros for investments, CNA reported.
The EC said this package will support 8 key new investments in water supply and sanitation, waste water treatment and rail transport, as well as innovation in small and medium-sized enterprises.
Investments will be made in close cooperation with partners from the Western Balkans and international financial institutions.
The EUR 1.2 billion investment package includes EUR 300 million in grants from the EU under the Instrument for Pre-Accession Assistance (IPA).
New investments will be developed based on the three priorities of the Investment Plan: Reconstruction and rehabilitation of water supply and sewerage infrastructure in Montenegro and Bosnia and Herzegovina; progress in rail infrastructure along Corridor 10 with a fast connection between Belgrade and Velika Plana to allow faster movement of passengers and goods in the region; as well as support for the business sector in the region.
On this occasion, EC President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized that the investment plan for the Western Balkans worth 30 billion euros has been reinforced with a new package of 1.2 billion euros.
"This strengthens regional ties with quality infrastructure and brings us closer to each other, which is our goal. Our partners from the Western Balkans are building their European future. These investments, together with the necessary reforms and access to our common market, will prepare the economies of our partners to join the bloc," von der Leyen said.
The EC approved the Investment Plan for the Western Balkans in 2020, which covers the period 2021-2027. This package aims to stimulate long-term recovery, accelerate environmental and digital transformation and promote regional cooperation and rapprochement with the EU. | BGNES