(MENAFN- Trend News Agency)
BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 4. The European
Investment bank (EIB) is actively aligning its projects in the
Western Balkans with EU policies, aiming to deliver smarter
transportation, a cleaner environment, and modern education while
fostering job creation, said Damien Sorrell, Head of the Regional
Hub for the Western Balkans at EIB Global, in an interview with
Trend .
"With over 11 billion euros invested since 2010, we have
translated EU values and standards into our projects, ensuring
long-term, tangible benefits for the people," Sorrell stated.
"These efforts also help countries adopt and align with EU
standards even before accession, as well as improve
governance".
Sorrell highlighted the role of the EU's Growth Plan in
accelerating these efforts. "The rollout of the Growth Plan will
enhance our work, primarily through reform agendas that countries
need to implement as a precondition for accessing the envisaged 6
billion euro financial package," he noted. EIB Global is prepared
to support projects in key sectors, including transport, energy,
digitalisation, and human capital development.
Digital transformation remains central to the region's economic
growth. Since 2020, EIB Global has invested 200 million euros in
enhancing digital infrastructure and skills, supporting projects
such as the introduction of the 5G network in Serbia and providing
broadband internet to schools. "These investments drive
productivity and competitiveness, with the potential to attract
new, tech-focused foreign direct investments," Sorrell
explained.
Innovation ecosystems are also a priority. "Developing
innovation ecosystems is essential for spurring high-tech growth,"
Sorrell remarked. He pointed to Serbia's science and technology
parks in Niš, Belgrade, and Novi Sad-projects supported by EIB
Global - as examples of successful collaboration between
universities, businesses, and governments.
"Our initiatives aim to create a thriving innovation environment
while building bridges between education, business, and policy,"
Sorrell concluded, reaffirming the EIB's dedication to advancing
the Western Balkans' digital and economic landscape.
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