Skopje, 10 April 2023 (MIA) - The Open Balkan initiative not only accelerates our European integration, but creates the conditions to practically implement part of the European standards together with the countries in the region, said National Coordinator for Open Balkan and regional initiatives, Marjan Zabrcanec. 

"Through Open Balkan, we practice European values, European economic policies and a European way of cooperation with our neighbors. Therefore, this regional initiative not only accelerates our European integration, but creates the conditions to practically implement part of the European standards together with the countries in the region, as a preparation for what will be happening after we join the EU. Thus, Open Balkan is an accelerator of the Macedonian and the regional European integration, and an implementer of European economic policies in our region," Zabrcanec said in an interview with Lokalno. 

He stressed that Open Balkan is based on a policy of constantly open doors for the Western Balkan countries, as well as for EU members in the region. 

"Open Balkan was created for the citizens, not for the politicians. The sooner all politicians understand that this initiative allows institutions to cooperate and deliver works for the benefit of people, the sooner we will see the Balkans fully integrated into the European Union," Zabrcanec said. 

The National Coordinator stressed that at this point it is most important to support the implementation of what has been agreed between Belgrade and Pristina at last months meeting in Ohrid. 

"The successful implementation of the Ohrid agreement for Kosovo will bring peace and prosperity, which leads to greater regional cooperation of Kosovo and Serbia with all neighbors. Amid such conditions, there won't be any reason for Kosovo citizens to be deprived of the benefits of Open Balkan," said Zabrcanec. 

As regards Montenegro, Zabrcance said after Jakov Milatović took over as President, the country now has both a Prime Minister and a President who strongly support joining the Open Balkan.