Balkan Leaders Have High Hopes of Berlin Summit

A high-level conference on the economic prospects and European perspectives of the Western Balkan states opens in Berlin on August 28, including top-ranking politicians from Germany, the EU and the Balkans under the patronage of Chancellor Angela Merkel.

Regional leaders, including prime ministers, foreign ministers and economy ministers, hope the EU's most powerful country will help fund a number of major infrastructure projects. They also seek Chancellor Merkel’s approval that they are on the right path in terms of the EU integration process.

For Milo Djukanovic, Montenegrin Prime Minister, the conference is a chance for first ever official meeting with Merkel in her home country.

Although he has led his country for nearly a quarter-of-a-century, Djukanovic has never met the German Chancellor in Berlin, nor has Merkel visited Montenegro. They have only met briefly at some high-profile events, such as NATO and EU summits.

Some government critics maintain that the lack of contact is a sign of German disapproval with Djukanovic and with the state of democracy in Montenegro, especially concerning the fight against organised crime and corruption.

Ahead of the Berlin conference, Montenegro said the meeting would provide an additional incentive for progress in the economy, in the rule of law, in security and in regional reconciliation, while confirming the commitment of the EU and Germany to the European perspective of the Western Balkans. Montenegro also hopes to win support for concrete projects, such as a new highway.

Likewise, Kosovo is looking to the summit in Berlin to improve the poor situation with foreign investment.

Ardian Arifaj, an advisor to outgoing Prime Minister Hashim Thaci, said Kosovo to benefit both...

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