The European Commission launched its Digital Agenda for the Western Balkans in Sofia, Bulgaria on June 25.
This aim is to support the transition of the region into a digital economy and bring the benefits of the digital transformation, such as faster economic growth, more jobs, and better services.
“Digital is by definition borderless, spanning regions and continents,” said Mariya Gabriel, Commissioner for Digital Economy and Society, addressing the Digital Assembly in Sofia. “Today’s Digital Assembly will see the launch of the Digital Agenda for the Western Balkans, following on from the clear commitment expressed by EU leaders in the statement of support signed in Sofia on 17 May.
“The aim of the event is to ensure that the citizens of the Western Balkan region can fully reap the benefits of the fast-paced and inevitable digital transformation. The commitment to the Digital Agenda will ensure that citizens have the skills to match the demands of the new economy and will help modernise public administrations, strengthen cybersecurity, increase connectivity, and improve the business climate.”
According to a European Commission press release, Brussels and six Western Balkan partners (Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM) and Serbia) agreed to invest in broadband connectivity and to increase cybersecurity. They also agreed to strengthen the digital economy and society and boosting research and innovation.
