The Berlin Process, aimed at fostering cooperation among Western Balkan countries, is set to celebrate its 10th anniversary on October 14, 2024. In the lead-up to the main summit, foreign ministers from participating countries convened in Berlin to address pressing issues impacting regional integration and economic collaboration.
German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock emphasized the importance of making the upcoming summit a pivotal moment for both European integration and economic cooperation among Western Balkan nations. A significant point of contention remains the implementation of the Central European Free Trade Agreement (CEFTA), which is currently hindered by trade blockades, particularly concerning Serbia and Kosovo.
Baerbock held discussions with Serbian Foreign Minister Marko Djuric and Kosovo's President Vjosa Osmani before the conference, highlighting the urgency of resolving these trade disputes. Kosovo's Foreign Minister Donika Gerwalla-Schwarz stated that CEFTA would not be on the agenda for discussions in Berlin, focusing instead on incremental steps towards regional cooperation.
Despite some pessimism, Croatian Foreign Minister Gordan Grlic-Radman expressed optimism about reaching a CEFTA agreement, while Bosnia and Herzegovina's Foreign Minister Elmedin Konaković acknowledged the critical need for swift action to curb brain drain in the region.
The joint statement from the foreign ministers included commitments to enhance regional cooperation and improve neighborly relations, though no mention of CEFTA was made. The discussions also touched on academic mobility and harmonization of investment policies with EU standards.
Baerbock reiterated the geopolitical significance of the Berlin Process, especially in light of Russia's influence in the region, underlining the necessity for European unity and stability in the Western Balkans. As the summit approaches, the focus remains on achieving tangible results that can solidify the future of the Berlin Process and its impact on the region.