In a recent meeting in Skopje, EU Commissioner for Innovation, Research, Culture, Education, and Youth Iliana Ivanova engaged with ministers from the Western Balkans to advance the Western Balkans Agenda on Innovation, Research, Education, Culture, Youth, and Sport. The discussions underscored the EU’s commitment to integrating the region into the European Education Area, European Research Area, and European Innovation Agenda.
A key focus of the meetings was the EU’s new Growth Plan for the Western Balkans, which aims to facilitate convergence through increased support for innovation, green and digital transitions, and enhanced educational opportunities for youth. The ministers reaffirmed their dedication to fostering collaboration that attracts and retains talent while scaling up the necessary skills for innovation.
Additionally, the ministers discussed plans for the establishment of Digital Innovation Hubs, which will aid companies and public sector organizations in their digital transformations. The implementation of the Green Agenda for the Western Balkans is also crucial in advancing climate objectives in the region.
