EnlargementEnlargement

Since the 2003 European Council of Thessaloniki the countries of the Western Balkans have experienced sustained economic growth and achieved real political and economic reforms as they move closer to the EU. Like other countries around the world they have been severely affected by the economic crisis.

At this key moment, and in view of the importance the European Union attaches to its cooperation with the Western Balkans and their EU perspective, the Swedish Presidency of the EU and the European Commission have decided to organise a Conference on 9 December 2009 in Brussels: "The Western Balkans: Overcoming the economic crisis - from regional cooperation to EU membership".

The region benefits from increased economic cooperation with the Union and financial institutions but the main responsibility for addressing current challenges lies with the partners themselves. Regional cooperation has a key role to play in important areas such as energy, transport and trade. This conference aims to contribute to charting a path towards recovery from the present crisis for the Western Balkans.

This event will bring together up to 200 participants including representatives of the region, member states, international financial institutions and key media representatives.

Participation in the event is by invitation only. The event will be broadcasted and webstreamed live.

For further information on the conference please contact: Elarg-A2-Events@ec.europa.eu

Commission accredited press should contact the spokesperson in charge of DG ELARG.

Available on EbS: http://ec.europa.eu/ebs