Skopje, 10 June 2024 (MIA) - The Berlin Process' 10th anniversary should stimulate us to invest more efforts and work harder in the coming years, until we reach the ultimate goal of EU membership for countries of the Western Balkans, especially amid this geopolitical momentum, First Deputy PM for European Affairs Bojan Marichikj told a panel within the 7th Macedonian Energy Forum (MEF) 2024 on Monday.

Addressing session “Decoding a Decade: The Berlin Process and its Impact on the Green Energy Transition in the Western Balkans”, Deputy PM Marichikj highlighted the importance of regional networking in cooperation with the European Union and creation of energy policies and infrastructure development towards advancing the country and the region, the Secretariat for European Affairs said in a press release.

He underscored the importance of the Growth Plan and the measures undertaken, with most of the reforms aimed at resolving energy-related challenges in the Western Balkans region.

"For the first time on record, we have specific measures related to EU financial mechanisms that will contribute to the country's development and solving energy challenges, and this opportunity must be seized," noted Marichikj.

The Deputy PM said infrastructure projects are linked to energy projects and highlighted the importance of investments by institutions in the reform process.

"EU support during the energy crisis was indispensable. The region's cooperation through the Berlin Process in settling energy challenges is key to the country's stability and prosperity," added Marichikj.

MEF 2024, organized by ZIP Institute and the EU Delegation, will officially open on Tuesday.

Photo: Secretariat for European Affairs