ReSPA at Prime-Ministers Sherpas’ Meeting: Active Role in Advancing Regional Cooperation Toward Common Regional Market and EU Single Market
28 February 2025, Brussels
Representatives from Western Balkans governments, the European Commission, German and UK governments, and the partnering regional organizations (CEFTA, Transport Community, Energy Community Secretariat, ReSPA) convened at the Prime Ministers’ Sherpas meeting hosted by Regional Cooperation Council (RCC).
They discussed the Common Regional Market (CRM) Action Plan 2025-2028 and the revision of the Green Agenda Action Plan for the Western Balkans (GAWB).
The meeting opened with introductory remarks from Amer Kapetanović, Secretary General of RCC; Valentina Superti, Director for the Western Balkans at DG ENEST, European Commission; and Danijela Gačević, Acting Director of the CEFTA Secretariat. Their addresses underlined the strategic importance of advancing regional economic integration and aligning sustainability efforts with EU standards.
Director Maja Handjiska-Trendafilova highlighted ReSPA’s pivotal role in strengthening administrative capacities crucial for the Common Regional Market and EU Single Market, emphasizing the need for a reformed civil service. She reaffirmed ReSPA’s commitment to further enhancing its role and contribution: "Sustainable progress in the Western Balkans depends on how effectively we work together. Strong connections among institutions, continuous dialogue, and shared commitment to the Common Regional Market and the EU Single Market will determine our region’s resilience and long-term prosperity. Public administrations play a crucial role in making these ambitious goals a reality. Strengthening cooperation at all levels can accelerate reforms and create a more integrated, competitive, and sustainable region."
The Common Regional Market Action Plan 2025-2028 was the focal point of the first session, where PM Sherpas, representatives of the European Commission, and regional partners exchanged views on key deliverables and governance mechanisms necessary for ensuring full alignment with CRM 2.0 objectives. Participants stressed the importance of structured cooperation and clear monitoring frameworks to maximize the plan’s impact.
