04.07.2021 – 13:51
German Chancellor Angela Merkel dedicated her weekend message to her recent Conference with the Leaders of the Western Balkans, which will take place on Monday (05.07), virtually.
“Although the meeting will be done only by video, I am glad that we will be able to continue the cooperation with the heads of state and government from the six countries of the Western Balkans: Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Northern Macedonia, Montenegro. and Serbia “, said German Chancellor Angela Merkel in her weekly podcast, on Saturday (2.7.2021) in Berlin.
Aid for stability and dialogue
Merkel further recalled the beginnings of the Berlin Process initiated by Germany in 2014: “Both then and today, the goal is to provide the most concrete assistance for the stability of the region and for the peaceful dialogue between all parties”, the politician continued. Christian Democrats.
The German Chancellor recalled the responsibility of the EU and Germany towards the Western Balkans:
“It is a part of Europe where the wounds of the wars of the 1990s, of violence between ethnic groups, have not yet healed. But: There are also many citizens living in Germany, who have their roots in the countries of the Western Balkans, the chancellor further reminded.
“It is very clear to me: We, the EU member states, are very interested in a peaceful and good development of the Western Balkans. And we have a responsibility to actually commit to this. “
Exchanges between young people
Merkel further highlighted some of the achievements of the Berlin Process: “The Western Balkans Youth Forum, which brings together young people from different ethnicities, languages and religions”, but also “in vocational education, in the mutual recognition of school diplomas. and science cooperation ”, as well as“ progress in transport and infrastructure projects, which link the region ”.
All are important steps in achieving continuous cross-border communication, which helps to reduce reserves. And it brings these countries all together in their quest to meet the conditions for EU membership. “I am convinced that sooner or later their future will really be in a united Europe,” said the chancellor.
Lips are still compatible
Merkel further focused on the challenges of the region. “Old disbelief and old nationalisms, which very often provoke bilateral quarrels, have not yet disappeared.”
Reconciliation is needed in the future as well, said the initiator of the Berlin Process: “This means addressing the past, but also doing everything possible for the younger generation to live in peace.”
“I am convinced that with the annual Western Balkans conferences, we can help in this process,” Chancellor Merkel concluded.
DW
