TOWARDS STABILITY IN THE WESTERN BALKANS
Just back from Belgrade, Helen has spoken of her discoveries on a fact-finding mission to Serbia to study poverty and unemployment in the Western Balkans.
She said, “Following the devastating conflicts that affected the former Yugoslavia, it is vital to develop a stable economy in the area to ensure a prosperous and peaceful future. Although the region can seem far away from us in the UK, it is not so long since Territorial Army troops from Durham were sent to Kosovo, so I do think it is right for us to take an interest.”
Helen met with key decision-makers from across the formerly war-torn region in Belgrade to discuss how to tackle the deep economic problems facing the area.
The visit covered some critical issues concerning the economical situation that the Western Balkans are now facing, with recorded statistics of 30% unemployment, inflation running at 13% and trade deficit of $5 billion.
Helen added, “My experiences in Serbia illustrated the motivation and innovative ideas of a country wanting change and reform. The Western Balkans faces many challenges in rebuilding and cultivating a new stable society; building trade links, privatising industries and reconstructing their infrastructure. It is in our interest to help set a clear path that will help pave their way into joining the EU”.
A full report on Helen’s findings is available here.
Bomb damage is still visible in Belgrade
Filed under: Uncategorized on June 29th, 2006
