The coastal city of Durrës, Albania, is hosting today’s Brdo-Brijuni Process Summit, bringing together Western Balkan leaders to discuss the region’s European perspective and the implementation of the EU Growth Plan.
Held under the motto “Shared Interests, Joint Commitment for a Common Future: Together Toward the EU”, the summit is organized by the Presidents of Slovenia and Croatia, Nataša Pirc Musar and Zoran Milanović, and is chaired by Albanian President Bajram Begaj.
At the core of the discussions is the EU Growth Plan for the Western Balkans — a €6 billion financial instrument for the period 2024–2027, designed to support gradual integration of the region’s economies into the EU single market.
High-Level Regional Participation
Confirmed participants include all Brdo-Brijuni members: Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Kosovo, North Macedonia, and Serbia.
Among the key attendees are Kosovo’s President Vjosa Osmani, Serbia’s President Aleksandar Vučić, Montenegro’s President Jakov Milatović, members of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and North Macedonia’s President Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova.
The Brdo-Brijuni Initiative aims to strengthen regional cooperation and facilitate the EU accession path for Western Balkan countries.
EU Growth Plan — Fund Distribution
A major topic of the Durrës Summit is the allocation of the €6 billion EU Growth Fund, intended to accelerate reforms and boost economic convergence with the EU.
The expected distribution among Western Balkan states is as follows:
- Serbia: €1.5 billion+
- Albania: €920 million+
- Bosnia and Herzegovina: ~€900 million (reduced by 10% due to implementation delays)
- Kosovo: €880 million
- North Macedonia: €750 million+
- Montenegro: €380 million
Background of the Brdo-Brijuni Process
Launched in 2013 by Slovenia and Croatia, the Brdo-Brijuni Initiative serves as a long-term platform for political dialogue and regional stability. It promotes mutual trust, good neighborly relations, and EU-oriented reforms.
Last year’s summit in Montenegro emphasized green transition and governance reforms. This year’s meeting in Durrës continues that commitment, placing special emphasis on economic growth and European integration.
