On 16 October, the UK hosted the Economy Ministers’ Meeting as part of the Berlin Process, bringing leaders and partners together at Lancaster House to advance the region’s economic agenda. The discussion was forward-looking and centred on practical steps to deepen regional integration and deliver tangible benefits for citizens.
Key themes included accelerating the Common Regional Market and removing trade barriers to strengthen interregional trade and investment flows. Participants highlighted the importance of connectivity, both physical and digital, through infrastructure development, energy diversification, and initiatives such as the Tirana Digital Summit, which showcased progress in data centres and AI.
Sustainable growth was a recurring theme, with calls to embed green and innovative practices alongside economic reforms. Education and skills development were recognised as critical for competitiveness and attracting foreign direct investment, while inclusive growth and public confidence were seen as essential for long-term stability.
The meeting also underscored the need for closer alignment with EU standards and the role of strategic projects, such as transport corridors and green lanes, in unlocking opportunities. There was strong support for leveraging EU funding and private sector engagement to accelerate delivery, alongside commitments to vocational training and workforce inclusion, particularly through initiatives like the Women’s Economic Empowerment Call to Action and Roma integration efforts.
The session closed with a shared determination to move beyond dialogue to action, focusing on results, deepening cooperation, and positioning the Western Balkans as a reliable and competitive partner in Europe’s future. Further information on the meeting and its outcomes can be found here and in the full Chair’s Declaration here.