Skopje, 8 June 2022 (MIA) – This is a time of great challenges that require bold decisions and unity. The Open Balkan initiative is our commitment to a stable region, peace, cooperation and economic development – this is our commitment for a better life of our people. Our autochthonous initiative for Europeanization of the region, said Prime Minister Dimitar Kovachevski in the opening remarks at the Open Balkan Summit in Ohrid on Wednesday. PM Kovachevski said that in a time when the whole of Europe is facing the effects of military, energy, economic and health crises, regional countries have a common goal – to move forward together – whereas the war in Ukraine is a risk for the increased influence of third parties in the region, while the opening of a geostrategic gap in this part of Europe is not an option. “Our political goal is clear – the Western Balkans must become a part of the European Union. EU is the place for each and every country in the region. We are taking that path and Europeanize together. Countries of the Western Balkans are closely connected. Progress in one country stimulates progress in others. It is European to help each other not block each other. We should use this precious time in a more efficient way. The war in Ukraine risks the rising influence of third parties in the region. Therefore, we must all be extremely cautious and prepared. Leaving a geostrategic gap in our part of Europe is not an option. We are the ones who have to fill this gap and that is why Open Balkan is here. It is our autochthonous, organic initiative created by our institutions, seriously supported by all nations and ethnicities living in our countries,” said Kovachevski. According to him, it is of exceptional importance that the EU and member-states demonstrate maximum responsibility and accept the fact that Union enlargement with the Western Balkans is already a strategic and security issue. “Integration means joint commitment to building a strong, stable and united Europe, a home of democratic and civilized values. Our vision for the Balkans in the 21st century is a vision for a prosperous region integrated in Europe, where peace, stability and development will never be questioned by anyone. We act in a pragmatic and economic way, creating an environment favorable for large investments in the area, resulting in more and better paid jobs for our youth. We ask the EU to support our efforts and recognize it as an inspiration for the solution of its own problems,” noted Kovachevski. The PM expressed hope that Open Balkan would become more attractive for other regional countries to come and join, while welcoming the attendance of Montenegro Prime Minister Dritan Abazovic and Bosnia and Herzegovina Presidency Chairman Zoran Tegetlija and reaffirming the invitation to Kosovo as well. During the Ohrid summit, regional leaders will sign an agreement on mutual recognition of diplomas and post-graduate degrees issued by universities and other authorized institutions, as well as memoranda of understanding in the fields of tourism, culture and tax administration.