EU and the Western Balkans launch a joint strategy to strengthen cooperation in innovation, research, education, culture, youth and sport

On 6 October, at the EU-Western Balkans Brdo Summit, the leaders of the European Union and its Member States, together with Western Balkans leaders launched the ‘Western Balkans Agenda on Innovation, Research, Education, Culture, Youth and Sport’, a comprehensive, long-term cooperation strategy of the European Union and the Western Balkans. It will promote scientific excellence as well as reform of the region’s education systems, create further opportunities for the youth, and help prevent brain drain.

Mariya Gabriel Commissioner for Innovation, Research, Culture, Education and Youth said,

EU cooperation with the Western Balkans offers unparalleled opportunities. The Innovation Agenda for the Western Balkans will open these opportunities to students, researchers, innovators and cultural operators so that they access new markets, become more competitive and build sustainable prosperity. It’s a positive and forward-looking vision for all.

Through increased investments in Research, Education, Culture, Youth and Sport, the Western Balkans Agenda and its proposed actions will contribute to the region’s economic and societal development and cooperation.

More information

EU-Western Balkans Summit - Brdo Declaration

Factsheet

International cooperation with the Western Balkans