The US strongly supports the continuation of the efforts of the Western Balkans for deeper and more comprehensive strengthening of the regional economic integration, in accordance with the rules and standards of the EU, stated the spokesperson of the US State Department for the Albanian Television Top Channel, reports MIA.In response to the question about the position of the US in terms of the “Open Balkans” initiative accepted by Albania, Serbia and North Macedonia, and which is seen with scepticism by Kosovo, Montenegro and Bosnia and Herzegovina, the spokesperson stated that the US are encouraging the leaders of the region “to try to find possibilities for reducing trade barriers, increasing economic competition and building integrated, dynamic economies in the service of its citizens”.

The US government in its reply to TV Top Channel specifically outlined the importance of the four principle upon which the “Open Balkans” is built, which are promoted by Albanian and Macedonian Prime Minister Edi Rama and Zoran Zaev and Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic.

Creating the “Common Regional Market “, a common regional market that guarantees free movement of people, goods, capital and services is of key importance for attracting investments and economic growth.

–        The Western Balkans are a region with great unexploited potential, which is reflected in the vision and efforts of its people to create a prosperous and successful region, fully integrated in the European Union, is said in the reply of the State Department spokesperson for TV Top Channel.

Previously, as Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama stated, the German government has supported the “Open Balkans” initiative and has requested immediate signing of the agreements for a common regional market before the EU –Western Balkans Summit on October 6.