EU Adopts 6B Euros Plan for W Balkans  05/07 06:11

   

   BRUSSELS (AP) -- EU countries approved a plan worth 6 billion euros ($6.45 
billion) to support Western Balkan states on Tuesday aimed at accelerating 
reforms and economic growth in the region, as they seek future membership in 
the bloc.

   The Council of the European Union said the plan, which covers the period 
from 2024 to 2027, is expected to provide up to 2 billion euros in grants 
($2.15 billion) and 4 billion euros ($4.3 billion) in loans. Aid is contingent 
on reforms that would bring Western Balkan economies in line with EU rules.

   "The facility will support a range of socio-economic and fundamental 
reforms, including reforms related to the rule of law and fundamental rights," 
the Council said.

   The region's six countries -- Albania, Bosnia, Kosovo, Montenegro, North 
Macedonia and Serbia -- are at different stages in their applications for 
membership, but residents have been frustrated with the slow pace of the 
process. Croatia was the last country to be accepted by the EU in 2013.

   The six countries pledged to adapt customs regulations and create joint 
border crossings like EU member countries. They also set targets to launch 
research and development hubs for industry and install free Wi-Fi in public 
places.

   The Council said that a precondition for Serbia and Kosovo to receive aid is 
that "they engage constructively with measurable progress and tangible results 
in the normalization of their relations."

   Serbia has not recognized Kosovo's 2008 declaration of independence, and 
recent tensions between them have sparked concern among Western powers. Both 
have said they want to join the EU, but the bloc has warned that their refusal 
to compromise is jeopardizing their chances for membership.