Bečići, Montenegro – The Central European Free Trade Agreement (CEFTA) Secretariat participated in the High-Level Conference on Regional Economic Integration, held on January 27-28, 2025, in Bečići, Montenegro. The conference titled “Empower. Integrate. Grow.” brought together high-level policymakers, EU officials, business leaders, and regional experts to discuss progress and challenges in regional economic cooperation, focusing on the region’s pathway toward integration with the EU Single Market.

Danijela Gačević, the Acting Director of the CEFTA Secretariat, took part in the panel discussion titled “Moving Forward – Supporting Regional Integration and Integration with the EU.” During her remarks, Ms. Gačević highlighted CEFTA’s crucial role in fostering trade cooperation, eliminating trade barriers, and driving reforms that align the region with EU standards and priorities.

“CEFTA has proven to be a key partner in the region’s integration into the EU Single Market,” Ms. Gačević highlighted during her address. “Our efforts have already delivered tangible benefits for businesses and citizens across the Western Balkans, and today’s discussions showcased our achievements and map out the next steps. Intention of all of us is to build a region that is not only interconnected but also aligned with the EU standards and ready to embrace the opportunities of the Single Market.”

The Conference addressed themes of regional economic cooperation through engaging sessions such as:

• Implementing the New Growth Plan: A discussion of priorities and strategies for aligning the Western Balkans with the EU standards.
• Advancing Trade Integration: Showcasing policy reforms and success stories that highlight progress in trade facilitation.
• Showcasing Regional Cooperation: Celebrating achievements in building a competitive and sustainable Common Regional Market.

Throughout the event, the recently adopted CEFTA agreements were highlighted as milestones in advancing the Common Regional Market. These agreements, including those on e-commerce, parcel delivery, geo-blocking, and the recognition of AEO programs, risk managements, dispute settlement, demonstrate CEFTA’s commitment to unlocking new opportunities for businesses and citizens across the region.

“Our work is far from over,” concluded Ms. Gačević in her closing remarks. “Full EU integration requires ongoing commitment and innovation. CEFTA remains dedicated to creating an economic environment where businesses thrive, citizens benefit from greater opportunities, and the region strengthens its partnership with the EU.”