Documents & Publications
Speech by RCC Secretary General at the Executive Training on the Common Regional Market (CRM) for civil servants from Western Balkans Six parliaments and ministries
03 DECEMBER 2024 | SPEECH
Majlinda Bregu's opening speech at the Executive Training on the Common Regional Market (CRM) held on 2 December 2024 in Tirana emphasizes the importance of regional cooperation and the alignment of the Western Balkans Six efforts with the European Union (EU) integration process. Highlighting her previous success with Albania's Summer School on European Integration, Bregu underscores the interconnected nature of initiatives like the Common Regional Market, the Growth Plan, and the Green Agenda, which aim to prepare the region for gradual EU Single Market accession. She commends the participants for their pioneering role, framing the training as a step toward fostering expertise and collaboration among civil servants to advance socio-economic convergence with the EU. The program focuses on understanding EU regulations and the region's progress, emphasizing the collective responsibility to operationalize the regional agenda for tangible, impactful growth.
Download: EN
In the boiling water of violence - Statement by RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu
25 NOVEMBER 2024 | STATEMENT
The statement by Majlinda Bregu, RCC Secretary General, highlights the pervasive and evolving nature of violence against women, emphasizing how it is rarely an isolated incident but rather a persistent, systemic issue reinforced by societal norms and modern digital platforms. Using Margaret Atwood's metaphor of gradual harm, it sheds light on alarming global and regional statistics, including the rise of online abuse, particularly in the Balkans, where Albania stands out for its paradoxical trust in social media despite its dangers. The statement calls for collective action to address the root causes of violence and break the cycle that pressures individuals and generations alike.
Speech by RCC Secretary General at the 9th Regional Security Coordination Conference
07 NOVEMBER 2024 | SPEECH
RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu opened the 9th Regional Security Coordination Conference dubbed “Working Together in Times of Global Uncertainties” held on 7 November 2024 in Sarajevo.
Among other things Bregu said: “Our region is affected by nearly every global challenge and our security landscape is rapidly evolving. Migration is not just a flow of people; it's a national security issue. Brain-drain is now a security threat, not just an economic issue. We face climate change, natural disasters, and due to the ever-growing menace of cyber threats, we are permanently under attack where our personal lives can be easily violated and invaded at any moment. We are in dire need of prioritising awareness, knowledge, and skills, aligning legislation with the EU, and joining forces with the EU on several fronts."
Download: EN
REPORT ON THE ACTIVITIES OF THE REGIONAL COOPERATION COUNCIL SECRETARIAT For the period 1 June 2024 – 30 September
06 NOVEMBER 2024 | REPORT
Report on the activities of the Regional Cooperation Council Secretariat for the period 1 June 2024 – 30 September was presented by the RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu at the 54st RCC Board meeting on 6 November 2024.
Download: EN
Speech by RCC Secretary General at the Berlin Process Summit
14 OCTOBER 2024 | SPEECH
RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu spoke at the 10th Berlin process Summit held on 14 October in Berlin.
Bregu highlighed progress and challenges faced over the past decade in fostering regional cooperation in the Western Balkans. She reflected on the four main objectives of the Berlin Process: addressing bilateral issues, reconciliation, enhancing economic cooperation, and promoting sustainable growth. While Bregu acknowledged that resolving bilateral issues remains difficult, she emphasized the success of initiatives like the Green Lanes, increased trade, and mutual recognition of professional qualifications.
RCC Secretary General also marked her final Summit as RCC Secretary General and expressed pride in the region's strides toward EU integration while stressing the importance of the Common Regional Market in uniting the region and shaping a shared European future.
Download: EN
Speech by RCC Secretary General at Balkathon 5.0 Award Ceremony
03 OCTOBER 2024 | SPEECH
RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu opened the Award Ceremony of the fifth edition of RCC's flagship initiative Balkathon, held in Tirana on 3 October 2024.
"Five years ago, during a global uncertainty of the Covid pandemic, when the world was adjusting to a new reality, we asked ourselves: What can we create? What problems can we solve using technology? What ideas can disrupt the usual “cog in the wheel” roles and dive the region into problem-solving with freedom and creativity? How to ensure cooperation will not be abandoned? And we came with the idea of a hackathon called Balkathon-more than just a space for innovation, because to us it is a platform of cooperation. Bringing people with different skills and perspectives to the same place, encouraging collaboration that goes beyond boundaries.
In five years what began as a response to a crisis has since evolved into a platform for transformation. Nearly 400 applicants have participated in 23 diverse topic, supported by 72 mentors and evaluated by almost 60 experts in digitalisation and ICT. To date, we have awarded 22 ground-breaking solutions through Balkathon," said Bregu among other things.
Download: EN
Speech by RCC Secretary General at the Meeting of Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Berlin Process, 1 October 2024, Berlin
01 OCTOBER 2024 | SPEECH
RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu spoke at the Meeting of Ministers of Foreign Affairs in Berlin on 1 O ctober 2024.
Among other things, Bregu said: "There is room for everyone to do more. We all need more integration than disintegration; we all need more cooperation than isolation; we all need more togetherness not in words but in actions; we need better planning and sustainable financial instruments as part of the new gradual accession of WB into the EU, we need a Growth mind-set, not only a Growth Plan. This is a collective journey if we want to drive real lasting change. Cooperation is not a choice but a must! We owe it to ourselves and to the future generations."
Download: EN
Speech by RCC Secretary General at the Balkan Barometer 2024
16 SEPTEMBER 2024 | SPEECH
RCC presented the findings of Balkan Barometer 2024 on 16 Septermber 2024 in Tirana.
Secretary General Majlinda Bregu showcased the most prevalent data saying, among other things: “Balkan Barometer reveals that hiking prices and inflation are the biggest worry this year for the people of Western Balkans, who for the past decade worried most about either economic situation or unemployment. This change doesn’t come as a surprise, given that inflation in the Western Balkans is nearly double that of the EU (8.1% to 3.4% respectively), while food prices are almost the same as in the EU. Yet, our GDP is just half of that of the EU."
Speech by the RCC Secretary General at the at the High-Level Cybersecurity Conference “Cybersecurity challenges and opportunities in the Western Balkans”
09 JULY 2024 | SPEECH
RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu opened the High-Level Cybersecurity Conference “Cybersecurity challenges and opportunities in the Western Balkans”, organized by RCC and with the support of European Commission.
Among other things Bregu said: “Last year, we initiated a high-level dialogue on cybersecurity and have since seen significant progress. All Western Balkan economies have prioritised digital skilling in their National Reform Agendas. The ID-Wallet, initially RCC’s proposal, is now recognised by the EU for accession to the Single Market. The RCC, with EU support, is developing a regional cybersecurity approach. The Western Balkan legislation is aligning with the EU acquis and cybersecurity is now a key focus in the Common Regional Market's second iteration, aiming for integration into the EU Single Market by 2028. Efforts include aligning with the EU cybersecurity certification framework, regional cooperation, and developing AI legislation. Embracing all-inclusiveness is paramount in our endeavour to implement cybersecurity measures across the Western Balkans,”
Download: EN
RCC Secretary General for Monitor
08 JULY 2024 | INTERVIEW
Albanian Monitor published an interview with RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu.
The interview discusses the challenges and progress of gender equality for women in the Western Balkans. Major challenges include limited access to property, income, and decision-making roles, compounded by gender stereotypes and inadequate childcare services. The Regional Cooperation Council (RCC) is addressing these issues through initiatives like public awareness campaigns, support for women entrepreneurs, and the establishment of networks for women in STEM. In Albania, efforts to improve legal standards, combat gender bias, and support women in business and politics are emphasized, although challenges such as the gender pay gap persist. Bregu stressed the importance of genuine political reform, better support for women's re-skilling, and access to education and training in higher-paying sectors to enhance economic growth and gender equality.
Download: SQ
RCC Secretary General at the 6th Meeting of the WBIF Strategic Board
01 JULY 2024 | SPEECH
RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu spoke at the 6th Meeting of the WBIF Strategic Board in The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), in London on 1 July 2024.
“Despite achievements, there are still untapped potentials in economic integration that could add 10% growth to our economies.
One of those is human capital. Between 2009 and 2023 our region received through WBIF 118 mil EUR for human capital development and it is estimated that investment in that area for the same period was cca. 2.2 billion EUR.
Through regional cooperation Western Balkans can tap into human capital development even more. For example, fostering labour mobility within our region could potentially add 1.3% to GDP by 2025 and generate 80,000 new jobs. The new phase of the Common Regional Market, as an “access gateway” to Single Market will bring Human Capital Development to the spotlight, through free movement of workers, skills development and upskilling fit for the future.”, said Bregu.
Download: EN
RCC Secretary General at the OECD High-Level Conference on South East Europe
26 JUNE 2024 | SPEECH
RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu spoke at the opening panel of OECD High-Level Conference on South East Europe, held on 26 June 2024 in Paris.
“Western Balkans is a much different region from the one 10 years ago. Regional cooperation proved itself as a safe vessel in a storm, with 80% of the citizens fully supporting it. But as the region is still riddled with tensions, its full potential is yet to be harnessed. With credibility at stake, full implementation of the made commitments, is a hard must! Persistent stalemates and blockages are no longer affordable. The new phase of the Common Regional Market, a regionally-owned framework, is in preparation. While it may not change the whole situation in the region, it is going to bring the region closer together, fast-tracking the much-needed convergence,” said Bregu among other things.
Download: EN
RCC Secretary General for Radio Free Europe
18 JUNE 2024 | INTERVIEW
North Macedonian Radio Free Europe published an interview with RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu.
In an interview Bregu emphasized the need for the Western Balkans to adopt a more realistic perspective towards EU integration, given the shifting priorities and changing dynamics within the EU. Reflecting on her tenure, Bregu highlighted significant regional cooperation achievements such as reduced roaming charges and mutual recognition of professions and diplomas. She acknowledged persistent challenges, including the small economies and bilateral disputes of the region, but noted an increasing political will for cooperation.
Speech by RCC SG at SEECP Summit
13 JUNE 2024 | SPEECH
RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu spoke at the South East European Cooperation Process (SEECP) Summit in Skopje on 13 June 2024.
Among other things Bregu said: "EU integration has been the promise and the North Star our region has looked upon for decades, despite the serious blows, disappointments, and sluggish advancements. The past year has seen some progress in the EU enlargement: the opening of accession negotiations with Bosnia and Herzegovina and Moldova, and the long-overdue visa liberalisation for Kosovo*. In December last year, yet another EU-Western Balkans Summit was held, which has become a traditional forum to discuss important issues of EU accession, following the successful Berlin Process Summit hosted by Albania. The EU’s Growth Plan for the Western Balkans, supported by a commitment of 6 billion EUR in grants and loans, will stimulate economic growth and socio-economic convergence in our region, providing a significant boost to our EU aspirations."
* This designation is without prejudice to positions on status, and is in line with UNSCR 1244/1999 and the ICJ Opinion on the Kosovo declaration of independence.
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RCC Secretary General for KALLXO.com
05 JUNE 2024 | INTERVIEW
KALLXO.com published an interview with RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu.
In an interview Bregu talks about the critical need for freedom of movement to achieve regional integration and a common market in the Balkans. She highlights the failure to implement the visa-free agreement between Pristina and Sarajevo, despite its signing under the Berlin Process, due to Bosnia and Herzegovina's non-ratification. Bregu emphasizes that this stalemate restricts citizens' mobility and hampers economic and regional development. She also urges more political will to overcome these obstacles and stresses the broader benefits of regional cooperation and integration for achieving EU membership.
Opening speech by RCC Secretary General at the Western Balkans Civil Society High-Level Conference
24 MAY 2024 | SPEECH
RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu opened Civil Society High Level Conference, dubbed Continuing the success story of EU enlargement – Bringing benefits to the Western Balkans in advance of accession, organized by EESC in Ljubljana, Slovenia on 24 May 2024.
Among other things Bregu said: "Under the weight of various consecutive crises the EU’s “cold feet” were often met with our region’s reform fatigue and unconvincing reform records, creating a lot of vicious instead of virtuos circles. Until the aspirations of around 18 million citizens for a stronger Union that can be more, with Western Balkans firmly in its fold, materialise, the Common Regional Market (CRM) is bringing the region closer together, and to the EU Single Market, both fast-tracking the much-needed convergence between the WB and EU. This is where RCC is putting its undivided focus. But we're running against the clock and concrete impacts and more sizeable investments must be felt on the ground as soon as possible,"
Download: EN
RCC Secretary General for RTRS
13 MAY 2024 | INTERVIEW
BiH public broadcaster RTRS published an interview with RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu.
Bregu spoke about Growth Plan for the Western Balkans, new phase of the Common Regional Market, human capital, successes of regional cooperation and more.
Download: EN
Speech by RCC Secretary General at the TRATOLOW Ministerial Western Balkans and Türkiye Conference
26 APRIL 2024 | SPEECH
Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council Majlinda Bregu spoke at the TRATOLOW Ministerial Western Balkans and Türkiye Conference in Vienna on 26 April 2024.
Bregu said: "The call for accelerated integration of our region and earlier access to the EU’s Single Market necessitates that our region delivers strongly on green and energy transitions, also in view of integration into the Internal Energy Market. Geopolitical tensions strain available resources and might impact policy prioritisation. Neglecting the green transition is not viable, as it poses the risk of anchoring the region in outdated, carbon-intensive technologies. This stance could seriously undermine our competitiveness in the EU Single Market."
Full speech is below.
Download: EN
RCC Secretary General for publication "Connecting The Region"
01 APRIL 2024 | INTERVIEW
Connecting The Region, a regional publication that unites top officials, the diplomatic community, and leading businesses from the Western Balkans and Soth East Europe, published an interview wit RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu. The interview dubbed Huge Potential for Collaboration delves into the significance of regional collaboration in Southeast Europe. Bregu discusses the untapped potential for cooperation among countries in the region, highlighting the opportunities it presents for economic growth, stability, and European integration. She emphasizes the importance of fostering dialogue and partnerships to address common challenges and unlock shared benefits, underscoring the RCC's role in facilitating this collaborative effort.
RCC Secretary General for European Western Balkans
21 MARCH 2024 | INTERVIEW
European Western Balkans (EWB) published an interview with RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu.
The interview dubbed "Bregu: EU Growth Plan could double Western Balkan economies in the next decade" delves into the significance of the EU Growth Plan for the Western Balkans and the ongoing efforts towards the creation of a Common Regional Market (CRM). With a commitment of €6 billion, the Growth Plan aims to bolster economic growth and socio-economic convergence in the Western Balkans, crucial for advancing the region's EU integration. Bregu emphasises the substantial disparities between the region and the EU in key economic indicators, highlighting the urgent need for closer alignment.
The interview underscores the potential of the Growth Plan to double the region's economies within a decade and stresses the importance of CRM in facilitating access to the EU Single Market. Bregu also discusses the challenges posed by internal political crises and regional issues, emphasising the necessity for consensus and implementation of agreed-upon measures. Furthermore, Bregu acknowledges the role of civil society organisations in promoting regional cooperation and integration, stressing the importance of their engagement and recommendations in initiatives like the Berlin Process.
Among other things, Bregu says: Central to the Growth Plan is the Common Regional Market (CRM) Action Plan, spearheaded by the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC). Building upon successful initiatives already in place within the CRM, the Growth Plan is crucial in offering the Western Balkans opportunities for closer integration with the EU’s Single Market. However, access to the EU Single Market is contingent upon fulfilling commitments within the Common Regional Market framework, itself modelled on the EU Single Market.
Painting the Western Balkans’ Labour Markets in Brighter Colours - Op-Ed by the Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council Majlinda Bregu
16 MARCH 2024 | ARTICLE
Op-ed by Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council Majlinda Bregu discusses the evolving labor market trends in the Western Balkans, highlighting a decrease in unemployment rates but also pointing out significant challenges such as skill shortages, emigration of talented workers, and disparities in vocational education participation. It emphasizes the importance of addressing these challenges through targeted interventions, particularly in vocational education and training (VET), to align with industry needs and retain talent within the region.
The article calls for collaborative efforts among governments, businesses, and civil society to develop comprehensive strategies to foster innovation, productivity, and economic growth in the Western Balkans.
Speech by RCC Secretary General at the Regional Summit on Growth and Convergence Plan
29 FEBRUARY 2024 | SPEECH
Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council Majlinda Bregu spoke at the Speech by RCC Secretary General at the Regional Summit on Growth and Convergence Plan in Tirana on 29 February 2024.
Bregu said: ""The time is ticking on defining the future of our region that is working in two parallel streams right now. The first is the work on national reform agendas advancing the path to the EU, and the second is deepening regional economic integration among themselves, which is a stepping stone to accessing the EU Single Market. The first one has a clearly set path by the EU, while the second one is a work in progress and the new phase of the Common Regional Market (CRM) Action Plan, we are currently preparing in cooperation with all regional partners, is aimed at establishing a functional CRM within the Western Balkans, as a pre-condition for closer integration with the EU Single Market,"
Full speech is below.
Download: EN
Opening speech by RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu at the Western Balkans Coordination Meeting “Revolve to Evolve - Go Circular”
08 FEBRUARY 2024 | SPEECH
Secretary General Majlinda Bregu opened the Western Balkans Coordination Meeting dubbed “Revolve to Evolve - Go Circular” on 8 February 2024 in Pristina.
Among other things Bregu said: Though becoming a hotspot for climate change, our region, which finds itself all too often crushed against the heaviness of various socio-economic or political crises, can often instinctively resort to myopic lenses. Lenses that still do not truly capture the urgency and omnipresence of the climate change nor, for instance, the alarming low recycling rates and the high municipal waste generated per capita.
Interview with RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu for KDPolitik.com
24 JANUARY 2024 | INTERVIEW
Online portal KDPolitik.com published an interview with Majlinda Bregu, Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC). Bregu spoke about the imperative of implementing national reform, creating a Common Regional Market, joining the EU Single Market and EU accession, and preventing blockage of regional processes.
Secretary General Bregu for RTV Klan's "31 Minuta"
08 JANUARY 2024 | VIDEO INTERVIEW
RTV Klan's show "31 Minuta" featuring Regional Cooperation Council's Secretary General Majlinda Bregu's statement on youth exodus and how much it costs our region, but also on policies to keep our youth in the Western Balkans.
Speech by RCC Secretary General at EU-WB Summit
13 DECEMBER 2023 | SPEECH
RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu addressed the EU-WB Summit which took place on 13 December in Brussels.
"One year after the EU-WB Summit in Tirana, we feel that the pace and sense of heightened urgency for reforms and regional cooperation on the side of the region, and for institutional and budgetary preparedness of an EU fit for enlargement, is more palpable. Deepening our economic integration and continuing to build on the policies aligning us more with the EU is always valuable. A true and fully functional Common Regional Market, unhindered by regional disputes, can be our vessel to the EU Single Market, which, in all likelihood, will be our future prospect,” said RCC Secretary General, Majlinda Bregu at the Summit.
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Opening speech by RCC Secretary General at the second edition of the Regional Butterfly Award ceremony
12 DECEMBER 2023 | SPEECH
RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu opened second edition of the Regional Butterfly Award ceremony together with the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Bulgaria Mariya Gabriel, in Sofia on 12 December 2023.
“Investment in research and Development (R&D) in our region remains quite low - less than 1% of the GDP while in EU the figure is 2.3%. To fulfil the promise of today’s smart machines, policies need to be smart too. As part of the EU's new Growth Plan for the Western Balkans, a regional pre-accelerator focusing on deep-tech will be launched soon. We're delighted to see our efforts bearing fruit. We also aim for a segment of this initiative to support early-stage innovation teams beyond deep-tech," said Bregu among other things.
Download: EN
RCC Secretary General's lecture at the College of Europe
23 OCTOBER 2023 | SPEECH
RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu was a guest lecture at the College of Europe on 23 October 2023 in Bruges, Belgium.
At the lecture dubbed "The Western Balkans and the EU: First-hand insight after the Berlin Process Summit 2023" Bregu said among other things:
"The Western Balkans region is like a canvas painted with all hues of history and diversity, a tapestry of languages, cultures, and painful conflict. Yet it is precisely in this diversity that the true potential for cooperation lies.
If the Balkans seems complicated and confusing, it is because it is. But there is nothing incomprehensible or even covert that doesn’t exist elsewhere."
Download: EN
Secretary General Bregu for RTSH's show "3D"
19 OCTOBER 2023 | VIDEO INTERVIEW
Regional Cooperation Council's Secretary General Majlinda Bregu's interview for Radio Televizioni Shqiptar with Alban Dudushin, on Common Regional Market, roaming reductions between European Union and the Western Balkans, regional cooperation in the region, and more.
View: SQ
RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu speech at the Berlin Process Summit, on 16 October 2023 in Tirana
16 OCTOBER 2023 | SPEECH
RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu spoke at the Berlin Process Summit, which for the first time took place in the region, in Tirana on 16 Octber 2023.
"The concerted efforts we put towards mutual recognition of a new set of professions, which now amount to 7 in total, fully based on EU rules – is another symbolic entry ticket to the single market as it can be a crucial step towards recognition of professional qualifications with the EU. It remains imperative though that there are no implementation and enforcement gaps and that the signatures of the agreements are promptly followed by entry into force so that the benefits reach those intended for – our citizens, said Bregu.
Speech by RCC Secretary General at the first Local Self-Governments Forum
12 OCTOBER 2023 | SPEECH
RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu opened the first Local Self-Governments Forum Unlocking the Future: Innovate, Eco-vate, Elevate - Western Balkans Unite for Smart Cities in Tirana on 12 October 2023.
"For the first time in history, the majority of world's people are living in cities. Growing cities face enormous challenges, worsen the most common headaches of city life, such as traffic jams, overcrowded buses, trams, air pollution. Overpopulated cities can also strain vital services, including water supply, energy production, waste management, stress the citizens who cannot afford to buy a new apartment and so on and so forth.
Said this, the other side of the coin is true: cities are increasingly becoming incubators of change and drivers of innovation."
Download: EN
Speech by the RCC Secretary General at the Berlin Process Foreign Ministers Meeting
06 OCTOBER 2023 | SPEECH
RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu spoke at the RCC Secretary General at the EU-WB Foreign Ministers Meeting organised within the Berlin Process by the Albanian Government in Tirana on 6 October 2023.
Bregu took part at the first session together with Olivér Várhelyi, Commissioner for Neighborhood and Enlargement, European Commission, Pascual Navarro Ríos, State Secretary for the European Union, Angelina Eichhorst, Managing Director for Europe at the European External Action Service and Albert Hani, Secretary General, Regional Youth Cooperation Office (RYCO).
"A success story of EU-rules based regional cooperation and a symbolic entry ticket to EU single market saw the light of the day on 1 October this year – when the EU-WB roaming reductions came into effect. It was a demonstration of commitments made and pledges kept. Against a very difficult backdrop in our region currently, this 1 October we managed all together, in close partnership and cooperation with the European Commission, and under the political guidance and support of the European Union and with the support of 38 telecom operators, to see the first roaming charges reductions between European Union and Western Balkans. It might look like an achievement that has been there. After long processes and expectations, people start to take things for granted, but all of us here working on the Common Regional Market Action Plan know how hard it can be. We know how difficult it is to come to a conclusion, and have a success story, " said Bregu among other things.
Download: EN
RCC Secretary General for BHT
05 OCTOBER 2023 | VIDEO INTERVIEW
RCC SG Majlinda Bregu for BiH public broadcaster BHT on the benefits of EU-Western Balkans roaming charges reduction for region’s citizens, digitalisation in the region and more.
View: BS
Opening speech by the RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu at Balkathon 4.0 grand finale
03 OCTOBER 2023 | SPEECH
RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu opened Balkathon 4.0 grand finale in Sarajevo on 3 October 2023.
"Balkathon is more than a competition; it's a canvas for your ideas, a laboratory for your creativity, and a launchpad for your dreams. In the face of the challenges that surround us, it's your novelty that offers hope, your start-ups that breathe life into change, and your ideas that can redefine our day-to-day life,"said Bregu, among other things.
Download: EN
"Call from a Region in My Mind" : Bridging the Gap – The Roaming Revolution in the Western Balkans
02 OCTOBER 2023 | ARTICLE
RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu's Op-ed on beginning of reduction of mobile data costs between the European Union and Western Balkans.
"The journey to this milestone began with the entry into force of Roam Like At Home regime in the Western Balkans in July 2021, based on the Western Balkans Regional Roaming Agreement. It is a testament to the unwavering commitment of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC), the European Commission (EC), and telecommunications operators from the EU and Western Balkans. A year-long negotiation process, facilitated by the RCC and EC, has borne fruit.
It is a real change for both citizens from this region and our beloved ones living in the EU. It empowers both EU and WB citizens to bridge distances; it represents a profound shift in the way we connect with Europe. It is part of a thread intricately woven into the fabric of the Europeanisation of our countries."
Speech by the RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu at the Berlin Process Forum of Economic Ministers
26 SEPTEMBER 2023 | SPEECH
RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu spoke at the Berlin Process Forum of Economic Ministers: “Common Regional Market - A Stepping stone towards the EU Single Market on 26 September 2023 in Tirana.
"A human-centric Europe, that is adapted, reformed, rebooted and more - with Western Balkans firmly in its fold - is the best investment in peace and security for the entire continent! The Western Balkans has made significant progress in the last two decades, but we are not where we wanted and should be and unfortunately, friction amongst countries persists, and conflicts can hinder investments and economic growth in the region,” said Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC), Majlinda Bregu, among other things.
Download: EN
Speech by the RCC Secretary General at SEECP Ministers of Foreign Affairs meeting, New York, 21 September 2023
21 SEPTEMBER 2023 | SPEECH
RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu took part at the SEECP Ministers of Foreign Affairs Meeting co-organised by the RCC in New York today.
"The Western Balkans have made significant progress in the last two decades, but the Western Balkans are not where their inhabitants or outside peacemakers hoped we would be twenty-plus years after the guns went largely quiet. Unfortunately, friction among countries persists, and conflicts can hinder investments and economic growth in the region. This, and having in mind the backdrop of these vast geopolitical shifts, we must ponder the evolution of regional entities like SEECP whose value could perhaps be in its pre-negotiation capabilities, its function as a conduit to pre-empt and resolve disagreements before they reach larger multilateral stages. Can we envision SEECP as a regional bastion—a true reflection of South East Europe's unique characteristics, bound by shared values echoing the ethos of the European Union," said RCC SG Majlinda Bregu among other things.
Download: EN
Speech by the RCC Secretary General at Tirana Home Affairs Ministerial Meeting
14 SEPTEMBER 2023 | SPEECH
RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu took part at the Home Affairs Ministerial Meeting in Tirana.
"Western Balkan citizens have identified these factors important for affecting the perception of security:
- Crime, organized crime, drugs, human trafficking, violence and vandalism (60%)
- Misuse of firearms and arms trafficking (48%)
- Possibility of an armed conflict or political instability in the WB region (47%).
But these are not the only security factors our citizens take into consideration. 7 out of 10 agree that fake news and fake narrative represent a problem for democracy and 74% agree that disinformation represents a security threat to their economies. There are excellent models in the EU that could be mirrored in the Western Balkans, but fighting against security threats at the regional level is just as important. At the end of the day, the goals are simple: security and safety," said RCC SG Majlinda Bregu among other things.
Download: EN
RCC Secretary General Bregu for Inglosus Foundation
30 AUGUST 2023 | VIDEO INTERVIEW
RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu interview for Inglosus Foundation given on the sidelines of the Digisustain Conference in Frankfurt.
View: EN
Speech by the RCC Secretary General at Tirana Policy Development Forum
14 JULY 2023 | SPEECH
RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu took part at the Tirana Policy Development Forum in Tirana.
"Good to see that cybersecurity and manipulation of information is getting more attention everywhere, our region included, as the Western Balkans is living in the times of friction making it a perfect playground for hybrid threats. They provoke hate, create economy slowback and harm trust in institutions. Organized corruption and the misuse of funds to support the spread of disinformation pose serious challenges to society. Undue financial gains are used to “employ” an army of trollers, to buy influence, and spread fake narrative and propaganda through social media. That’s why the transparency of political parties finance should be a fundamental rule to foster the culture of accountability," said RCC SG Majlinda Bregu among other things.
Download: EN
Speech by the RCC Secretary General at the European Economic and Social Committee 580th plenary session and “The future role of civil society in the enlargement process" debate
12 JULY 2023 | SPEECH
RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu took part at the European Economic and Social Committee 580th plenary session and a debate dubbed “The future role of civil society in the enlargement process" held 12 July 2023 in Brussels.
Download: EN
Speech by the RCC Secretary General at the Dubrovnik Forum
08 JULY 2023 | SPEECH
RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu took part at the Dubrovnik Forum held 8 July 2023 in Dubrovnik.
"The language of power is the language of leadership. By necessity, and maybe not by choice, the EU is learning every day that speaking the language of power is power itself. European leadership, power, and unity have never been more important, more needed, and more obviously in the interests of EU Member States and other regions worldwide, including the Western Balkans," said RCC SG Majlinda Bregu among other things.
Download: EN
Secretary General for Radio Televizioni Shqiptar
04 JULY 2023 | INTERVIEW
Regional Cooperation Council's Secretary General Majlinda Bregu's interview for Radio Televizioni Shqiptar with Elona Meco, on Common Regional Market, roaming reductions between European Union and the Western Balkans, regional cooperation in the region, EU integration of the Western Balkans and more.
Speech by the RCC Secretary General at the EU-Western Balkans Regulatory Dialogue meeting
30 JUNE 2023 | SPEECH
RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu took part at the EU-Western Balkans Regulatory Dialogue meeting, in Brussels on 30 June 2023.
“Today’s accession to the Digital Europe Programme for four conomies from our region is a major development enabling them to benefit from a program of almost 7,5 billion EUR. What once seemed almost utopic is now a reality since 2021 - with the regional roaming fees eliminated. We continue to keep our promises on the roaming agenda. During the first Regulatory Dialogue I emphasised the next challenge to reduce the massive roaming charges between the EU and WB. As of 1 October, we expect an average regional reduction by 30% of data cost while roaming. The impact of the slashed costs is as always beyond monetary,” said RCC SG Majlinda Bregu among other things.
Download: EN
Speech by the RCC Secretary General at the SEECP Summit
27 JUNE 2023 | SPEECH
RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu took part at the SEECP Summit in Podgorica.
"As we meet today for the annual SEECP Summit on the eve of the 20th anniversary of Thessaloniki Agenda and RCC’s 15th anniversary - we witness and acknowledge some undisputable truths. Regional cooperation nurtures, consolidates, transforms. It keeps delivering concretely on the ground despite ups and downs. Yet, it cannot be taken for granted and more cooperation instead of less remains crucial for addressing the recent worrying regional tensions. Also, enlarged Europe that acknowledges that integrated Western Balkans is a genuinely smart investment can be more. Last but not least regional integration through concrete achievements alongside European integration is the best and most credible way forward," said RCC SG Majlinda Bregu among other things.
Download: EN
Secretary General for the Frankfurter Rundschau
14 JUNE 2023 | INTERVIEW
German daily Frankfurter Rundschau published an article featuring RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu and the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC) on regional cooperation, investments in Western Balkans, EU integration and Common Regional Market.
Speech by the RCC Secretary General at Digisustain Conference in Frankfurt
12 JUNE 2023 | SPEECH
RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu took part at the Digisustain Conference in Frankfurt.
"We already have tangible results for out citizens from Green Lanes, mutual recognition of diplomas, Travel with ID cards and more. Roadmaps for green transition and digital transformation are in place, but it is up to Western Balkans to follow up and continue our efforts together" said RCC SG Majlinda Bregu among other things.
Download: EN
Speech by the RCC Secretary General at the Leaders Dialogue Implementing Green Agenda for Economic and Societal Prosperity in the Western Balkans
07 JUNE 2023 | SPEECH
RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu took part at the Leaders Dialogue “Implementing Green Agenda for Economic and Societal Prosperity in the Western Balkan”, held 7 June 2023 in Tirana.
“Ramping-up regional cooperation and integration in EU’s energy and environmental initiatives is the solution. Our region must remain steadfast on the sustainable, green transition and decarbonization path, despite pressing challenges. No U-turns on energy security and green transition are a viable option. Green Agenda for the Western Balkans must be seen in the truly development, growth, opportunities and positive perspective it has. Green Agenda cannot just be seen from a cost perspective, it can be a source of substantive growth in the region,” said Bregu among other things.
Download: EN
Speech by the RCC Secretary General at the Adriatic and Ionian Council of the Adriatic and Ionian Initiative (AII) and the Ministerial Meeting of the EU Strategy for the Adriatic and Ionian Region
24 MAY 2023 | SPEECH
RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu took part at the at the Adriatic and Ionian Council of the Adriatic and Ionian Initiative (AII) and the Ministerial Meeting of the EU Strategy for the Adriatic and Ionian Region.
Download: EN
Speech by the RCC Secretary General at the high-level meeting on countering firearms trafficking in South East Europe in Brussels
16 MAY 2023 | SPEECH
RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu took part at the high-level meeting on countering firearms trafficking in South East Europe in Brussels held 12 July 2023 in Brussels.
"There are lessons we learn from roadmaps and lessons we learn in sorrow. Just in the first quarter of 2023, 821 firearm incidents were reported in South East Europe, resulting in 334 victims, while this month started with a devastating death toll from the bloodiest mass shooting in Western Balkans. Recent tragic events in Serbia tell us that damage that comes from light and small weapons is never small and that the use coming from illicit trade or civilian ownership can never be taken lightly.
Where do we go from here? Cooperation among WB6 can play a significant role in reducing illegal firearms from circulation and contribute to a safer and more secure region, support for mental health must be considered, medical and psychological evaluation for gun owners. SALW Roadmap is testimony of region's commitment and great example of regionally-owned process." said RCC SG Majlinda Bregu among other things.
Download: EN
Interview by Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council, Majlinda Bregu: Closing in to Europe: lowering roaming prices between Western Balkans and EU
09 MAY 2023 | INTERVIEW
On Europe Day, Majlinda Bregu, Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council, in an interview for "Zëri" , gives the first details of one of the concrete achievements for the citizens of the Western Balkans.
Speech by the RCC Secretary General at NGO forum on the Green Agenda for the Western Balkans
30 MARCH 2023 | SPEECH
RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu took part at the NGO forum on the Green Agenda for the Western Balkans in Belgrade
"We already have tangible results for out citizens from Green Lanes, mutual recognition of diplomas, Travel with ID cards and more. Roadmaps for green transition and digital transformation are in place, but it is up to Western Balkans to follow up and continue our efforts together" said RCC SG Majlinda Bregu among other things.
Download: EN
RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu for North Macedonian kdp.mk
28 MARCH 2023 | INTERVIEW
RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu spoke to North Macedonian web-portal kdp.mk about mobility agreements signed four months ago as part of Berlin Process Summit by WB leaders, on roaming, Common Regional Market, regional integration, and more.
In the interview dubbed "WE NEED AN INVESTMENT CLIMATE FOR THE WESTERN BALKANS ", among other things, Bregu said:
"Every single effort and achievement that gives a chance to this part of the world we live in, to be closer, more cooperative, further economically integrated with each other , even through the Common Regional Market, is another step forward towards creating a welcoming climate for investments, attracting long-term investments and not allowing economies to be emptied of young people."
REPORT ON THE ACTIVITIES OF THE REGIONAL COOPERATION COUNCIL SECRETARIAT for the period 1 November 2022 – 1 March 2023
15 MARCH 2023 | REPORT
Report on the activities of the Regional Cooperation Council Secretariat for the period 1 November 2022 – 1 March 2023 was presented by the RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu at the 48th RCC Board meeting on 15 March 2023 in Sarajevo.
Download: EN
Full speech by the RCC Secretary General at the WHO Forum
02 MARCH 2023 | SPEECH
RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu took part at the World Health Organization WHO/Europe High-Level Forum on Health in the Well-Being Economy, held 1-2 March 2023 in Copenhagen.
Bregu spoke at the panel "A Well-being Economy Approach to Addressing Cost-of-Living Increases".
“Economic growth cannot be the only and ultimate policy objective. Collective wellbeing, healthy and thriving population where no one is left behind should be the foundation of every growth policy. The ambitious post-pandemic recovery aspirations are crushed against the stark realities of our fellow citizens in South East Europe who struggle with galloping inflation and bills that consume half of their incomes. Sadly, a large portion of the energy shock continues to be absorbed by the public sector, with health and social services being among the first to suffer. We first-handed felt the brunt of demographic pressures and daunting brain drain with 67% of Western Balkans citizens stating their willingness to live and work abroad,” said Bregu among other things.
Download: EN
RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu for Politicki.ba
19 JANUARY 2023 | INTERVIEW
Majlinda Bregu, RCC Secretary General spoke to BiH portal Politicki.ba about the upcoming EU-WB roaming prices reduction and the successes of the Roam Like at Home (RLAH) regime in the Western Balkans.
RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu for FENA
19 JANUARY 2023 | INTERVIEW
Majlinda Bregu, RCC Secretary General spoke to BiH portal Federalna Novinska Agencija - FENA about the upcoming EU-WB roaming prices reduction and the successes of the Roam Like at Home (RLAH) regime in the Western Balkans.
RCC Secretary General for TRT World
04 JANUARY 2023 | VIDEO INTERVIEW
Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council Majlinda Bregu spoke to TRT World.
Bregu spoke about the position of the Western Balkans in regards of the war in Ukraine, Russian influence in the Balkans, EU enlargement of the region's economies, the importance of the regional cooperation and much more.
View: EN
Speech by RCC Secretary General at the EU - Western Balkans Summit in Tirana
06 DECEMBER 2022 | SPEECH
RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu spoke at the EU - Western Balkans Summit organised in Tirana on 6 December 2022.
“The first question we were asked after the Roam Like at Home has come to action last July, was when the roaming prices with the EU will be lowered. And that is the first thing we have started working on after that 1 July. So, I’m happy to say that ‘when’ has arrived, the roaming prices between the Western Balkans and the European Union are going down with the leaves next fall. But this is just the start of the process until the final objective of EU-WB roaming prices at the level nearing domestic ones is attained in 2027,” said Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council, Majlinda Bregu at a press conference with Albanian Deputy Prime Minister Belinda Balluku, EU Enlargement Commissioner, Oliver Varhelyi, EU and WB telecommunications operators’ representatives, following the signing of the Declaration.
Press Statement by RCC Secretary General, Majlinda Bregu on the occasion of the signing of Roaming Declaration
06 DECEMBER 2022 | VIDEO INTERVIEW
Press Statement by RCC Secretary General, Majlinda Bregu on the occasion of the signing of Roaming Declaration between European Union and Western Balkans telecommunications operators on 6 December 2022 in Tirana.
Opening remarks by RCC Secretary General at the 7th Annual Jumbo Security Conference
18 NOVEMBER 2022 | SPEECH
RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu opened the 7th Annual Jumbo Security Conference on 17 November 2022.
“The EU and the Western Balkans share many evolving, borderless security threats, from radicalisation, violent extremism, and return of Foreign Terrorist Fighters to irregular migration, organised crime, corruption, disinformation and cyber-attacks. Such joint priorities have been re-validated by the war in Ukraine by also making clear the crucial role of the Western Balkans in maintaining peace and stability of Europe’s eastern borders,” said Bregu, among other things.
Download: EN
Speech by RCC Secretary General at the Western Balkans Berlin Summit
03 NOVEMBER 2022 | SPEECH
RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu spoke at the Western Balkans Berlin Summit, organised within the Berlin Process in German capital on 3 November 2022.
“Though written off as nearly impossible, after trying and nerve-racking two years, the three RCC-coordinated centrepiece mobility agreements finally see the light of day. Today they reach those intended for - our citizens! Much like the ubiquitous impact of the regional roaming agreement and the green lanes, their manifested impact on the ground will be direct and concrete. ” said Majlinda Bregu, RCC Secretary General at the Summit
Anadolu Agency interview with RCC Secretary General dubbed "Bregu: Travel with ID cards in Western Balkans possible from 2023"
31 OCTOBER 2022 | INTERVIEW
RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu interview to Anadolu Agency dubbed "Bregu: Travel with ID cards in Western Balkans possible from 2023" on three Western Balkans mobility agreements, when they will enter into force, what are the expected results, and the next steps for the Western Balkans.
Radio Free Europe article dubbed "I Dream of Bihać and Bosnia’: Bosniaks from Prizren waiting to travel to BiH without visas" featuring statement by RCC Secretary General
28 OCTOBER 2022 | ARTICLE
‘I Dream of Bihać and Bosnia’: Bosniaks from Prizren waiting to travel to Bosnia and Herzegovina without visas - Radio Slobodna Evropa article on three mobility agreements featuring statements of Western Balkans citizens and RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu.
Bregu: Roaming free regime between the EU and Western Balkans is our next objective
27 OCTOBER 2022 | INTERVIEW
Majlinda Bregu, RCC Secretary General spoke to BiH portal Politicki.ba about three mobility agreements approved by the Western Balkans Foreign Ministers on 21 October 2022 and expected to be signed by Western Balkans leaders on 3 November in Berlin at the Berlin Process Summit:
- Agreement on Freedom of Movement with Identity Cards in the Western Balkans,
- Agreement on Recognition of Higher Education Qualifications and
- Agreement on Recognition of Professional Qualifications for Doctors, Dentists and Architects
Speech by RCC Secretary General at the Roundtable with the Energy Ministers of the Western Balkans
24 OCTOBER 2022 | SPEECH
RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu addressed the Roundtable with the Energy Ministers of the Western Balkans, organized within the Berlin Process Summit 2022 on 24 October in Berlin.
Keeping the torch alight on the implementation of GAWB that was developed in times of stability is a hellishly difficult task in these times of adversity. It is clearly overshadowed by the impact of the war and the pan-European energy price surge.
Download: EN
Speech by RCC Secretary General at the WB-EU ministerial meeting, organised within the Berlin Process
21 OCTOBER 2022 | SPEECH
RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu spoke at the WB-EU ministerial meeting, organised within the Berlin Process in German capital on 21 October 2022.
“We proudly today showcase that all-inclusive regional cooperation and Common Regional Market deliver results. That the region has agreed on three RCC-coordinated centrepiece mobility agreements whose implementation, much like with the green lanes and regional roaming agreement, will very soon bring their own manifested impact on the ground,” said Majlinda Bregu, RCC Secretary General at the meeting, announcing that the Western Balkans Foreign Ministers approved three regional agreements - on Freedom of Movement with Identity Cards, on Recognition of Higher Education Qualifications, and on Recognition of Professional Qualifications for Doctors of Medicine, Dentists and Architects.
Download: EN
Speech by the RCC Secretary General at Western Balkans Digital Summit 2022
21 SEPTEMBER 2022 | VIDEO INTERVIEW
RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu spoke at the opening of the Western Balkans Digital Summit 2022 which took place in Pristina on 21-22 September 2022.
"Digitalisation in our region has its two sides of the coin. On one hand there have been great broadband connectivity strides, such as Roam Like at Home in the Western Balkans, and massive spread and uptake of e-services. On the other hand, our region is recently struggling with serious cyber-attacks. Our digital literacy is still low, as is the level of cross-border interoperability. Disinformation and fake news flourish. So, the region needs more cooperation, not less." , said Bregu among other things.
View: EN
Speech by the RCC Secretary General for the 72nd session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe
12 SEPTEMBER 2022 | SPEECH
RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu took part at the 72nd session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe held on 12 September 2022.
"We are living in challenging times. In 2020, we saw ourselves fighting a pandemic while environmental challenges were at its peak, and on top of them, now we are experiencing a war that is impacting severely energy and food security. The risk of stepping back on health and environment protection and increasing poverty is a menace.
On average, the SEE households allocate some 40-45% of their income to energy and food consumption. In case a new wave of Covid-19 comes up in the upcoming winter and pushes up the average household level of out-of-pocket health expenditures higher, new layers of population groups are to be pushed down to the poverty level."
Download full speech bellow.
Download: EN
Opening speech by the RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu at Balkathon 3.0
06 SEPTEMBER 2022 | SPEECH
Majlinda Bregu, RCC Secretary General opened Balkathon 3.0 finale in Pristina on 6 September 2022.
Among other things, Bregu said:
"Being true to our focus on the region’s human capital development – we embarked on RCC’s Balkathon trademark journey three years ago.
What was initially a Covid lockdown-born idea – transformed into a sizable regional flagship initiative that is eagerly anticipated by our youth and start-ups.
In three (3) years, we are proud to have an initiative that:
-taps into the considerable potential of ICT sector to boost the added value and exports of services across the region,
-addresses unemployment in a region in which labour force participation rates remain low and youth unemployment is at a staggering thirty-three (33) percent (%) - more than double the EU average,
-creates further opportunities in a region in which thirty-nine (39) percent (%) of citizens are considering leaving for better opportunities abroad."
Download: EN
RCC Secretary General for Bota.al
25 JULY 2022 | INTERVIEW
Albanian web portal Bota.al published an interview with RCC Secretary General Malinda Bregu.
Bregu spoke about the current Western Balkan economies' European Union integration process with special reflection on the Albania, about regional cooperation, and more.
Full article in Albanian is at a link bellow.
In addition, find excerpts of the article featuring statements by the RCC SG in English language.
Statement by RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu on Opening of accession negotiations with EU for Albania and North Macedonia, 19 July 2022
19 JULY 2022 | STATEMENT
Better late than never!
Statement of Majlinda Bregu, Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC) on the occasion of Albania and North Macedonia opening accession negotiations with the EU.
Download: SQ
Speech by the RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu at the Regional Butterfly Innovation Award ceremony
27 JUNE 2022 | SPEECH
RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu opened Regional Butterfly Innovation Award ceremony in Tirana on 27 June 2022, where six winning innovation ideas from the region were awarded.
"This spring we launched the first Regional Butterfly Innovation Award. ‘What is now proved was once only imagination’- this Blake’s quote fits perfectly the 154 ideas in six competing categories - largely exceeded our boldest expectations. Women led almost half of the teams or most team members were women. This competition proves that innovation can bring together many bright and courageous minds. The RCC has started slowly to support research and innovation in the region and we hope the Butterfly Innovation Award will help the winners take their solutions to another level and shine a light on the regional innovation community and its undiscovered potential. Congratulations to the winners!”
The ceremony, co-organised by the RCC and the European Commission, took place on the side-lines of the Ministerial Meeting of the Western Balkans Steering Platform on Research and Innovation & Education and Training, hosted by the European Commission.
Download: EN
Opening remarks by the RCC secretary General Majlinda Bregu at the presentation of Balkan Barometer and SecuriMeter surveys
24 JUNE 2022 | SPEECH
Majlinda Bregu, Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC) opened the presentation of Balkan Barometer and SecuriMeter surveys, in Brussels on 24 June 2022
Download: EN
Annual Report of the Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council 2021-2022
10 JUNE 2022 | REPORT
The Annual Report of the Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC) covers the period April 2021 – April 2022. It outlines main RCC activities and achievements in the past year. It also lays out the overall background and crucial developments impacting and shaping the activities of the RCC and the region of South East Europe in the reporting period.
Download: EN
Statement by RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu on the occasion of Europe Day
09 MAY 2022 | STATEMENT
On this day seventy two years ago, the French Foreign Minister Robert Schuman suggested that European countries join together as an economic union. Such a union was the only way to guarantee peace in Europe for a long time. In his famous Declaration, Schuman said “concrete achievements” were essential to “the preservation of peace”.
For a dire circumstance, on this 9th of May, Europe is sucked into its worst crisis since the Second World War.
The outcome of the war in Ukraine is anything but certain.
This moment is also the centre of gravity for the future of the Western Balkans, showing that WB can contribute to solutions as other European countries are doing. We are not in an amber, but in the end, who is?
Each national story seems very different. But deeper, the same underlying beliefs stand.
“We have been in a bad place, we want to be in a better one, and the better place is called Europe.”
We are Europeans not only because we subscribe to the values enshrined in the Treaties of the European Union. We are Europeans because we choose to be.
Yet, now maybe a bit more, “the muse of lessons learned” is speaking louder:
Before late becomes a lifetime, the process of accession should change. For good.
The price of stagnation of enlargement of the Western Balkans - c’est plus qu’un crime, c’est une faute!
REPORT ON THE ACTIVITIES OF THE REGIONAL COOPERATION COUNCIL SECRETARIAT for the period 1 October 2021 – 1 March 2022
11 APRIL 2022 | REPORT
Report on the activities of the Regional Cooperation Council Secretariat for the period 1 October 2021 – 1 March 2022 by the Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council, presented at the 45th Meeting of the RCC Board on 16 March 2022.
Download: EN
RCC Secretary General for Indeks
06 APRIL 2022 | INTERVIEW
North Macedonian web portal Indeks published an interview with RCC Secretary General Malinda Bregu.
Bregu spoke about the impact of the current situation in Europe on Western Balkan economies, regional cooperation, EU integration and more.
Entire interview in Albanian language is available on the link below.
Download: SQ
RCC Secretary General for EurActiv: Brave New Europe?!
30 MARCH 2022 | INTERVIEW
Brave New Europe?! - Op-ed by RCC SG Majlinda Bregu published by EurActiv, on EU enlargement process in the light of the latest circumstances in Ukraine.
"For a long time now, there has been a dichotomy between methodology and the political aspects of the EU integration, which is put to the test now with the calls for fast-track EU membership of Ukraine and the tortoise pace of accession of the Western Balkans, writes Majlinda Bregu." said RCC SG Majlinda Bregu
Download: EN
WomEn who Launch: Regional Network of Women in Entrepreneurs - RCC SG Opening remarks
11 MARCH 2022 | SPEECH
RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu opened the regional event WomEn who Launch: Regional Network of Women in Entrepreneurs, In Tirana on 11 March 2022.
The Regional Cooperation Council (RCC) just launching today the first Regional Women in Entrepreneurship Network in the Western Balkans. We will not boil the sea right away. But sometimes the smallest act can lead to the biggest impact. We’ll engage ourselves not only to connect women with each other but also to lend a helping hand with the informational support and mentorship for the start-uppers. And then, together, we will work on common endeavours such as financial challenges, including high start-up costs and equipment/maintenance fees, assets like cash grants or marketing, all the way up to policy making. One thing we at the RCC are sure of is that when women engage, take responsibilities, grow and help each other they can be a rising tide that lifts all boats,” said, among other things, Majlinda Bregu.
Download: EN
Euronews article featuring statement by RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu
02 MARCH 2022 | ARTICLE
Euronews published an article dubbed "Could Ukraine kick-start the EU's stalled enlargement plan?" featuring statements by the RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu on the Western Balkans enlargement process in the light of the latest circumstances in Ukraine and Europe.
Full article in English is at a link bellow.
In addition, find excerpts of the article featuring statements by the RCC SG in Albanian and Bosnian language.
Western Balkans Youth and the Future of Europe; Op-Ed by the Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council Majlinda Bregu
05 FEBRUARY 2022 | ARTICLE
Op-Ed by the Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council Majlinda Bregu on the Western Balkans youth and their potential to be a part and create a future of the European Western Balkans.
"Reality in which youth live today is specific, marked by the rapidly transforming era of the fourth industrial revolution, a changing and precarious labor market, and a pandemic unprecedented in modern history. In this and other issues, it should not be our goal to understand young people – it should be to give their inputs, priorities and recommendations adequate space in policy-making and public discussions. In 2022, the European Year of Youth carries a promise to do just that."
Closing remarks of the RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu at the Kick Off event of Youth Policy Lab on Mental Health
10 DECEMBER 2021 | SPEECH
Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC) Majlinda Bregu gave spoke to almost 50 youth representatives from the region, as well as policy makers and representatives of the European Commission at the closing of the Kick Off event of Youth Policy Lab on Mental Health, which took place in Tirana on 9-10 December 2021.
Download: EN
Introductory remarks by the RCC Secretary General at the Sixth Jumbo Security Coordination Conference
06 DECEMBER 2021 | SPEECH
Speech by the Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC) at the Sixth Jumbo Security Coordination Conference, organized by the RCC together with the French Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs and the French Institute for Higher National Defence Studies (IHEDN), held in Paris on 6 December 2021.
Download: EN
European Union is Our Future, No Alternative, Interview by RCC Secretary General for Novi Magazin
02 DECEMBER 2021 | INTERVIEW
Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council Majlinda Bregu spoke to Serbian Novi Magazin about Western Balkans EU integration, Common Regional Market and Green Agenda for the Western Balkans, region's response to Covid-19 pandemic and much more.
"Weak Western Balkans makes the EU weak too. But a lot is being said each day by both the EU and Western Balkans leaders. The truth is that the enlargement has become a lot more brutal. In times when geostrategic shifts are taking place across the globe, the impasse of Western Balkans EU accession is never a good news. The scale of problems in the Western Balkans is a call to go beyond nudges and patches. Western Balkans is part of Europe, and is of the vital importance in this political realism. The need for Europe is as powerful as it is unsatisfied.", said Bregu, among other things.
Video podcast: RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu on regional cooperation
18 NOVEMBER 2021 | VIDEO INTERVIEW
RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu on priorities RCC is we are working on: EU-WB roaming, mental health and WB Green Agenda
Talking Points by the RCC Secretary General at the Western Balkans Digital Summit 2021
13 OCTOBER 2021 | SPEECH
Remarks by the Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC) Majlinda Bregu at the high-level meeting during the fourth Western Balkans Digital Summit, held in Podgorica 11-13 October 2021.
High -level meeting was opened by Montenegrin Prime Minister Zdravko Krivokapic with the following high-level speakers: Majlinda Bregu, Secretary General, Regional Cooperation Council, Olivér Várhelyi, DG NEAR, EC Commissioner and Natasha Azzopardi Muscat, Director of Country Health Systems and Policies at the WHO Regional Office for Europe.
Download: EN
Talking Points by the RCC Secretary General at EU-Western Balkans Brdo Summit
06 OCTOBER 2021 | SPEECH
Talking Points by the RCC Secretary General at EU-Western Balkans Brdo Summit held at Brdo pri Kranju, Slovenia, on 6 October 2021.
Download: EN
RCC Secretary General and Senior Connectivity Expert Pranvera Kastrati @Twitter on Roaming Free Western Balkans
03 SEPTEMBER 2021 | INTERVIEW
RCC's Secretary General Majlinda and Senior Connectivity Expert Pranvera Kastrati talked today on Twitter about the Roaming Free Western Balkans, the process behind it, benefits for region's citizens and ongoing negotiations about lowering roaming charges with the European Union.
"Compelled to make things better, whomever, wherever, however the solution for the Balkans is for countries to work together.", said among other things Majlinda Bregu.
Audio: EN
RCC Secretary General for Montenegrian Vijesti: “Knowing the right people” does not lead to the EU
26 JULY 2021 | INTERVIEW
RCC Secretary General gave an interview for Montenegrian Vijesti
"We know, Regional cooperation will prevail on the strength of its ideas and ideals, not on the disputes and the name of documents. We know economies of the region will be competitive when it should be, collaborative when it must be. We just hope those will be adversarial only when this is inevitable.
The prospect of eventual EU membership has been a driving force during all these years for all Western Balkan economies and background against which many common initiatives in the region were undertaken. For us dealing with regional cooperation it has been the predominant factor in urging the Western Balkans to engage with one another in a more positive manner as well as address not only the domestic problems they face, but also the unresolved issues in the region. I keep hearing yet whether WB is a geopolitical priority for EU. As long as this might be a farfetched question, is not a question of choice BUT of necessity, imperative and vision. One that begs just one sole answer - it must," said RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu for Montenegrian Vijesti.
Talking Points by Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council, Majlinda Bregu at Western Balkans Berlin Process Summit
05 JULY 2021 | SPEECH
Talking Points by Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC) Majlinda Bregu at the Western Balkans Berlin Process Summit.
Berlin Summit gathered EU representatives and Western Balkans leaders to talk on Regional Cooperation and Common Regional Market.
Download: EN
Talking Points by Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council, Majlinda Bregu at 2021 Prespa Forum Dialogue
02 JULY 2021 | SPEECH
Talking Points by Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC) Majlinda Bregu at the High-Level Plenary Session “Resetting the EU-US Synergy towards the Western Balkans” within the 2021 Prespa Forum Dialogue, in Ohrid, North Macedonia, on 2 July 2021.
Secretary General Bregu was accompanied by Serbian Prime Minister Ana Brnabic, Turkish Minister of Foreign affairs Mevlüt Çavuşoğlu, Kosovo's* Prime Minister Albin Kurti, Minister of Foreign Affairs from Poland Zbigniew Rau, Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama, Austrian Minister of Foreign Affairs Alexander Schallenberg and Chairman of the Council of Ministers of Bosnia and Herzegovina Zoran Tegeltija. Keynote speaker of the Session was North Macedonia's Prime Minister Zoran Zaev.
*This designation is without prejudice to positions on status, and is in line with UNSCR 1244/1999 and the ICJ Opinion on the Kosovo declaration of independence
Download: EN
Western Balkans Calling: We are Roaming Free; Op-ed by the Secretary General Majlinda Bregu
30 JUNE 2021 | ARTICLE
Op-ed by the Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC) Majlinda Bregu on the occassion of Roaming Free Western Balkans setting intro force on 1 July 2021.
"Delivering on promises: It took just over 2 years to move from signing the Regional Roaming Agreement to roam free across the region. And today is the difference that makes the difference."
Balkan Barometer 2021 - Public Opinion
24 JUNE 2021 | SURVEY
Balkan Barometer 2021 - this is the 7th edition of annual public and business opinion survey commissioned by the RCC which examines Western Balkan citizens and businesses perceptions and expectations towards a variety of thematic areas, such as the EU integration and regional cooperation, digitalisation, green recovery, employment, and for the second year in a row it includes topics concerning a challenging regional COVID-19 induced landscape.
Download: EN
Balkan Barometer 2021 - INFOGRAPHICS
24 JUNE 2021 | INFORMATION MATERIAL
BALKAN BAROMETER is an annual survey of public opinion and business sentiments in six Western Balkans economies, commissioned by the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC), which examines aspirations and expectations on life and work, prevalent socio-economic and political trends & regional and European integration.
BALKAN BAROMETER’S 2021 infographics booklet features some of the defining thoughts of Western Balkans citizens and businesses on prevailing issues facing the region.
The entire BB survey is available at www.rcc.int/balkanbarometer
Download: EN
Balkan Barometer Business Opinion
23 JUNE 2021 | SURVEY
Balkan Barometer 2021 - this is the 7th edition of annual public and business opinion survey commissioned by the RCC which examines Western Balkan citizens and businesses perceptions and expectations towards a variety of thematic areas, such as the EU integration and regional cooperation, digitalisation, green recovery, employment, and for the second year in a row it includes topics concerning a challenging regional COVID-19 induced landscape.
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Meeting of the Ministers of Foregn Affairs within the Berlin Process’s Western Balkan Summit, speech by RCC Secretary General
08 JUNE 2021 | SPEECH
Speech by the Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC) Majlinda Bregu at the Meeting of the Ministers of Foreign Affairs within the Berlin Process’s Western Balkan Summit, on 8 June 2021.
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Presentation of the Western Balkans SecuriMeter - the first-ever regional Public Opinion Survey on Security, Opening remarks by RCC Secretary General
24 MAY 2021 | SPEECH
Intruductory remarks by the Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC) Majlinda Bregu on the occasion of the Presentation of the Western Balkans SecuriMeter - the first-ever regional Public Opinion Survey on Security, on 24 May 2021.
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COVID-19 and the World of Decent Work
29 APRIL 2021 | INTERVIEW
Article on the occasion of 1 May, Labour Day
2021 edition of the International Labour Day: COVID-19 and the World of Decent Work
"Around a quarter of youth in the Western Balkans are NEETs – neither in employment, education or training (2019 data). Moreover, out of the total registered unemployed at the end of February 2021, 173,031 are young people, under 24 years, which is more than 12% of all registered unemployed."
By Majlinda Bregu, Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC)
RCC Secretary General for Fena: As of July 1, roaming costs in the entire Western Balkans will be zero
26 APRIL 2021 | INTERVIEW
RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu spoke to BiH news agency Fena end of April 2021
RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu spoke to BiH news agency FENA end of April 2021. Bregu, among other things, spoke about RCC’s and Western Balkans response to Covid-19 outbreak, challenges the region is facing, such as high unemployment, Regional Roaming Agreement, which will bring zero roaming costs within the Western Balkans as of 1 July, digital agenda and the implementation of initiatives that will contribute to digitalization of the Western Balkans.
“Digital agenda is not only composed of Roaming agreement. There are a lot of good and implementable deliverables we are working on, such as e-commerce.
79% of business communities say they do not feel the necessity to switch on online digital services, even they generate money through online sales. We will be working as well on zeroing tariffs on payments and fees while transferring money from one economy to another. A digital story is continuing together with innovations.”, said Bregu.
Report on the Activities of the Regional Cooperation Council Secretariat for the period 1 October 2020 – 1 March 2021
29 MARCH 2021 | REPORT
The Report on the activities of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC) Secretariat is submitted by the RCC Secretary General to the RCC Board in line with Article 15 of the Statute of the RCC. It covers the period between 1 October 2020 – 1 March 2021.
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Article by Gazeta Si, featuring RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu and results and successes of the Regional Cooperation Council
19 MARCH 2021 | ARTICLE
Albanian web portal Gazeta Si published an article dubbed "The unspoken of Majlinda Bregu/the International Mission", featuring RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu and results and successes of the Regional Cooperation Council.
FUTOURISMO award ceremony, Introductory remarks by RCC SG
02 MARCH 2021 | SPEECH
Intruductory remarks by the Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC) Majlinda Bregu on the occasion of FUTOURISMO award ceremony held on 2 March 2021 in an online format.
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Op-Ed: Women’s empowerment is essential to Western Balkans’ efforts to build back better from the pandemic
11 FEBRUARY 2021 | ARTICLE
By Majlinda Bregu, Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC) and
Mirjana Spoljaric, Regional Director for UNDP’s Bureau for Europe and the Commonwealth of Independent States
5th Ministerial Meeting on Environment and Climate Action in the Western Balkans - Introductory remarks by RCC SG
18 DECEMBER 2020 | SPEECH
Intruductory remarks by the Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC) Majlinda Bregu on the occasion of the 5th Ministerial Meeting on Environment and Climate Action in the Western Balkans, held online on 18 December 2020
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Speech of the Secretary General Majlinda Bregu at the Launch of RCC-UNDP initiative on women empowerment
11 DECEMBER 2020 | SPEECH
Speech by the Regional Cooperation Council's (RCC) Secretary General Majlinda Bregu at the launching of the the joint RCC and UNDP initiative 'Women’s Economic Empowerment: Areas for joint actions in the Western Balkans' held online on 11 December 2020.
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Bregu: Common Regional Market is a tool that will get us faster to the EU accession
08 DECEMBER 2020 | INTERVIEW
In an interview originally published by BiH portal Politicki.ba, Majlinda Bregu spoke about the Common Regional Market (CRM), endorsed in Sofia on 10 November 2020 by Western Balkans leaders. Read about the purpose, benefits and next steps in the implementation of the CRM Action Plan.
Speech of the Secretary General at the Western Balkans Sofia Summit on 10 November 2020
10 NOVEMBER 2020 | SPEECH
Speech of the Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC) Majlinda Bregu on the occasion of the Western Balkans Sofia Summir, held on 10 November 2020 in online format.
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RCC SG speech at the Meeting of the Ministers of Foreign Affairs within the Berlin Process
09 NOVEMBER 2020 | SPEECH
Introductory remarks by the Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC) Majlinda Bregu on the occasion of the Berlin Process ministerial conference, held on 9 November 2020 in online format.
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Interview of the RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu for Novi Magazin
05 NOVEMBER 2020 | INTERVIEW
"Western Balkans needs to pull its own weight as well, and there comes the Common Regional Market Plan that goes hand in hand with EU’s EIP. We are very small geographic area of around 18 million people altogether. And yet, almost 50% of people in the Western Balkans do not have the equal opportunity to free movement with identity documents. It is a region of scattered markets with different rules and procedures. The goal is to synchronise them to allow for smooth flow of goods, people, services, capital, but also to make the entire region an attractive investment destination. But we also have to bear in mind the global trend in digitalisation and develop plans to catch up with new technologies so we would be competitive."
Opening remarks of the RCC Secretary General at the Western Balkans Digital Summit 2020
26 OCTOBER 2020 | SPEECH
Speech of the Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC) Majlinda Bregu at the opening of the 3rd Western Balkans Digital Summit 2020 in Tirana on 26 October 2020
RCC Secretary General speech at the Berlin Process Interior Ministers' Meeting
16 OCTOBER 2020 | SPEECH
Speech by the Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC) Majlinda Bregu at the Berlin Process Interior Ministers' Meeting held on 16 October 2020
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Secretary General for EWB: Western Balkans can not lose another decade marked with new instabilities
14 SEPTEMBER 2020 | INTERVIEW
European Western Balkans (EWB), a regional web portal specialized in European integration process of the Western Balkans, published an interview with RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu on regional initiative “Green Corridors”, an initiative "achieved in times of big crisis. Western Balkans 6, the Regional Cooperation Council, the Transport Community Treaty Secretariat and CEFTA, with the support of the European Commission and our bordering EU member states, helped governments in the region to set and open a very much needed measure in the given situation to maintain the flow of goods, especially food, medicines and medical equipment within the region and between the region and the EU in the time of lockdown caused by the coronavirus outbreak. "
RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu for Deutsche Welle
11 SEPTEMBER 2020 | INTERVIEW
Deutsche Welle published an interview with RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu.
Among other things Bregu said: "Any initiative that takes economic co-operation forward is always welcome and worth discussing. However, on the other hand, I think there is room in the Western Balkans to include all those good ideas that may come from initiatives, such as the so-called Mini-Schengen initiative, in this very framework of the Regional Economic Area on which we have been working for several years."
Annual Report of the Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council 2019-2020
25 JUNE 2020 | REPORT
This Annual Report of the Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC) covers the period April 2019 – April 2020. It outlines main RCC activities and achievements in the past year. It also lays out the overall background and crucial developments impacting and shaping the activities of the RCC and the region of South East Europe in the reporting period.
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RCC Secretary General speech at the EU-Western Balkans Zagreb Summit
06 MAY 2020 | SPEECH
Speech by the Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC) Majlinda Bregu at the EU-WB Zagreb Summit held online on 6 May 2020
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RCC Secretary General for Radio Free Europe (RFE)
05 MAY 2020 | INTERVIEW
“Implementation of initiatives to strengthen cooperation amongst the [Western] Balkans Six economies would create conditions for better life of our citizens. What might save us from pains is for the political leaders and experts to say, because coronavirus pandemic is an abnormal situation that comes with abnormal risks. Cooperation is vital and I believe we all got the idea that solo play will bring us nowhere,” said, among other things, RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu in Radio Free Europe’s (RFE) article dubbed “Economic cooperation in Western Balkans: Solo play will bring us nowhere” analyzing the effects COVID-19 pandemic will have on the economy of Western Balkans.
The full article including the original answers to RFE questions provided by the RCC SG is available in the document.
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Majlinda Bregu, RCC SG's interview for N1 about the Western Balkans during & after COVID-19 pandemic
26 APRIL 2020 | VIDEO INTERVIEW
Majlinda Bregu, Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC) talks to N1 TV in an online interview about life in the Western Balkans during the corona virus pandemic, its effects on the tourism sector, Green Corridors and the EU integration of the region
Speech by RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu at the Western Balkans Competitiveness and Innovation Accelerator kick-off meeting
21 FEBRUARY 2020 | SPEECH
"Without a strategic innovation function that can enhance the capacities to incubate and accelerate the new technologies, companies in this region will continue to stockpiling undeveloped inventions and this will not return in an investment. "
The RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu delivered the speech at the Western Balkans Competitiveness and Innovation Accelerator kick-off meeting held on 21 February in Tirana, Albania.
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My “whack a mole” questions on Innovation, Op-ed by Majlinda Bregu, RCC Secretary General
19 FEBRUARY 2020 | ARTICLE
RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu on the necessity of investing in innovation as the engine of the economic growth in the region: "I am still wandering how good we, from this region are in finding the needle in the haystack of vast pools of innovation and technology?
The right needle I mean, the one that can help us spot anomalies in this global reshape of economies, called 4th industrial revolution?!
What novelty is fit for us to help our region change dramatically from a laggard in innovation into a competitive one and get more from these “game of zones” in technological upshift?"
Talking Points by the RCC Secretary General at the International Donors’ Conference “Together for Albania”
17 FEBRUARY 2020 | DECLARATION/DECISION
Talking points and pledge by the Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC) Majlinda Bregu at the International Donors’ Conference “Together for Albania”, held in Brussels on 17 February 2020 and organised by the EU, aiming to support reconstruction efforts after the earthquake that struck Albania at the end of November 2019.
Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council Majlinda Bregu for Euronews Albania
24 JANUARY 2020 | INTERVIEW
Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council Majlinda Bregu spoke to Euronews Albania on meaning, importance, successes and challenges of the Regional Economic Area.
The entire interview is avaliable at the following link https://euronews.al/al/aktualitet/2020/01/23/majlinda-bregu-shpresoj-qe-marreveshja-ps-pd-te-mos-jete-vetem-per-paqe-mes-aktoreve-te-politikes
The air pollution is killing us: Article by the RCC Secretary General, Majlinda Bregu for FENA News Agency
16 JANUARY 2020 | ARTICLE
In the article for FENA News Agency, the Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC), Majlinda Bregu reiterates the importance of addressing the air pollution in the region, as it continuously jeopardises health and wellbeing of the citizens. Many Western Balkans cities occupy the tops of the lists of the most polluted cities in the world and decisive actions to mitigate air pollution are necessary.
Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC) Majlinda Bregu in the EU Scream podacst on the EU perspective of the Western Balkans
09 JANUARY 2020 | INTERVIEW
Secretary General of the regional Cooperation Council Majlinda Bregu in the EU Scream podacst on the EU perspective of the Western Balkans
https://euscream.com/macrons-ugly-side/
Audio: EN
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Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC), Majlinda Bregu for “Vijesti”
09 JANUARY 2020 | INTERVIEW
INTERVIEW: Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC), Majlinda Bregu for “Vijesti”
RCC Secretary-General Majlinda Bregu's interview to the Albanian magazine Monitor
08 JANUARY 2020 | INTERVIEW
"The Western Balkans is not the same as 10 or 20 years ago. So new, innovative ideas, free movement, new approaches to structural funds, environment, tourism, connectivity, youth, women and the need for more women and girls in science and technology, etc., are the real debate to be held today."
Article by Majlinda Bregu, Secretary General of the RCC: We might not be as competitive as Germany, but we need to counter our fears and ensure mobility of students in the Western Balkans
20 DECEMBER 2019 | ARTICLE
Article by Majlinda Bregu, the RCC Secretary General for Political Trends and Dynamics in Southeast Europe publication of Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung (FES) about youth in the region and organisation's activities to support full utilisation of this human potential
Youth accounts for over 21% of population in the Western Balkans (WB), or more than 3.5 million in a region of some 18 million people all together. I call this a potential for future, for further strengthening of cooperation, for reconciliation in the region.
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Climate change does not need Schengen visa, Article by Majlinda Bregu, Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council
16 DECEMBER 2019 | ARTICLE
RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu on burning issue and challanges of climate change and Green Agenda in the Western Balkans: "We need to do more to raise awareness among the citizens that each and every one of us, including children, can and should make a difference. We truly are in this together, whether you like to admit it or not. The small steps also count – reducing plastic containers, minding the trash to keep our rivers, mountains, fields, forests clean, properly treat waste, turn to domestic foods, print less…a journey of a thousand miles starts with a single step. "
The article was published in the European Western Balkans https://europeanwesternbalkans.com/2019/12/16/climate-change-does-not-need-schengen-visa/
Secretary General Bregu: Delay in the EU enlargement generates "disappointment climate" in the Western Balkans
06 DECEMBER 2019 | INTERVIEW
RCC Secretary General for Austria Presse Agentur (APA): The delay in the EU enlargement has created a "disappointment climate" in the Western Balkans. "People are the ones who really support the EU accession process," says Secretary General. "They believe that if the EU standards apply to their country, they will feel safer, have equal opportunities to find a job, and be treated fairly in court of justice."
Bregu: Region cannot wait forever in the line for EU
18 NOVEMBER 2019 | INTERVIEW
RCC Secretary General for Politika: “The new EU enlargement strategy has to be a bold, clear, coherent strategy, avoiding ambiguity, a methodology that could install better connection between the EU and the Western Balkans even before accession, without empty promises, and definitely a methodology that could empower economies in the region to work on the reforms."
REPORT ON THE ACTIVITIES OF THE REGIONAL COOPERATION COUNCIL SECRETARIAT
22 OCTOBER 2019 | REPORT
The Report on the activities of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC) Secretariat is submitted by the RCC Secretary General to the RCC Board in line with Article 15 of the Statute of the RCC. It covers the period between 1 May – 30 September 2019.
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Speech by RCC Secretary General, Majlinda Bregu, at the High Level Regional Conference “It’s all about Justice”
04 OCTOBER 2019 | SPEECH
RCC and Albanian Ministry of Justice, organised the High Level Regional Conference “It’s all about Justice” gathering WB6 ministers, representatives of judicial institutions, civil society, and media, in Tirana on 4 October 2019
"A clean, well-lighted place", article by Majlinda Bregu, RCC Secretary General, for Bled Strategic Times
02 SEPTEMBER 2019 | ARTICLE
Article by Majlinda Bregu, the RCC Secretary General, on European integration prospects of the Western Balkans in the 30 August 2019 issue of the Bled Strategic Times magazine.
“European Integration of the Western Balkans is not a territorial agenda. It is a Transformational agenda. No one expects any shortage of sensitivities or emotional structures on display. But if we continue keeping the focus on the differences rather than seeing the world through the lenses of cooperation, we are simply welcoming an unacceptable risk."
Entire magazine is available at the following link https://www.bledstrategicforum.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Bled-Strategic-Times-2019.pdf. The article by Majlinda Bregu is on page 10.
Annual Report on of the Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC) 2018-2019
08 JULY 2019 | REPORT
This Annual Report of the Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC) covers the period April 2018 – May 2019.
It outlines the main RCC activities and achievements during the past year. It also lays out the overall background and crucial developments impacting and shaping the activities of the RCC and the region of South East Europe in the reporting period. During the reporting period, the RCC has devoted its utmost attention to delivering positive change and facilitating necessary reforms in the region, aimed at speeding up economic convergence with the EU and (re)connecting the Western Balkans economies with the global and EU value chains.
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Regional cooperation is becoming a steady pattern to EU’s magnetic attraction
02 JULY 2019 | INTERVIEW
The article of the RCC's Secretary General, Majlinda Bregu tackles anticipations of the Berlin Process's Western Balkans Summit in Poznan, Poland, staring on 4 July 2019.
Summing the expectations up, Secretary General Bregu writes: On 1st of July, Roaming Reductions arrived. On 4th of July, the Western Balkans summit in Poznan will start. EU is a magnetic attraction, while regional cooperation is becoming a steady pattern. For the future, let’s look into the past because the unsavoury one is still a threat! But REA has a clear status with togetherness at its core. Let’s give REA and regional cooperation the force to chart a sustainable long term Western Balkan reconciliation! Through economy, lifting all existing barriers!
Interview: Majlinda Bregu, Secretary General of the RCC to A2 CNN channel
12 JUNE 2019 | VIDEO INTERVIEW
The Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC) Majlinda Bregu spoke with Endri Xhafo, journalist of Tirana-based A2 CNN, “I Ftuari” show, on visa liberalisation but also on the overall situation in the region, regional cooperation, results achieved and steps to follow in the upcoming period.
View: SQ
Article by Majlinda Bregu, RCC Secretary General, for Euromoney's Global Markets magazine
08 MAY 2019 | ARTICLE
Article by Majlinda Bregu, the RCC Secretary General on economic prospects of the Western Balkans in the 8 May 2019 issue of Euromoney's Global Markets magazine.
“Standing on the gateway between the eastern and western part of the world, the region can serve as a safe harbour for investments whilst enabling easy access to the global market”.
Report on the activities of the Regional Cooperation Council Secretariat
30 APRIL 2019 | REPORT
The Report on the activities of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC) Secretariat is submitted by the RCC Secretary General to the RCC Board in line with Article 15 of the Statute of the RCC. It covers the period between 15 October 2018 – 1 March 2019.
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Majlinda Bregu, the RCC Secretary General to Milica Magazine
18 APRIL 2019 | INTERVIEW
In the interview to women's online Milica magazine, RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu talks about the region of South East Europe, successes and challenges of regional cooperation but also about the position of women in the region and being a woman in politics.
RCC Secretary General, Majlinda Bregu for Al Jazeera Balkans
03 APRIL 2019 | VIDEO INTERVIEW
Majlinda Bregu, the RCC Secretary General in an interview to Al Jazeera Balkans', 'Tell it to Al Jazeera' ('Recite Al Jazeeri') programme, talks about regional cooperation, achievements, challenges, her vision of the Western Balkans, benefits of the accession to the EU and much more.
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Roaming free? Downloading... Article by Majlinda Bregu, Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council
01 APRIL 2019 | ARTICLE
Regional Roaming Agreement for the Western Balkans: "It means you would be able to speak, SMS or surf more, wherever in the region you find yourself in, and pay much less. No more worries about making sure that your data is off when you cross the border."
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Majlinda Bregu, RCC Secretary General in "My Living' programme of Albanian Tring TV
28 MARCH 2019 | VIDEO INTERVIEW
RCC Secretary General was a guest of 'My living' programme produced by Albanian TRING TV (tring.al). The programme features Ms Bregu during one day in Sarajevo in business and private setting.
View: SQ
RCC Secretary General, Majlinda Bregu in RTSH1 Përballë programme
21 MARCH 2019 | VIDEO INTERVIEW
RCC Secretary General Majlinda Bregu was a guest in Përballë programme of the Albanian Radio Televizioni Shqiptar (RTSH1), hosted by Lutfi Dervishi.
The topics involved expected accomplishments of regional cooperation in 2019 and how they would affect ordinary citizens in the region.
Bregu: Investment in the European future of the Western Balkans is a win-win choice
15 FEBRUARY 2019 | INTERVIEW
BiH online magazine BUKA, published an interview with the Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council, Majlinda Bregu talking about the economic situation in the region, brain-drain, corruption, unresolved issues, but also about opportunities and necessity of regional cooperation and common European future.
Report on the activities of the Regional Cooperation Council Secretariat
18 OCTOBER 2018 | REPORT
The Report on the activities of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC) Secretariat is submitted by the RCC Secretary General to the RCC Board in line with Article 15 of the Statute of the RCC. It covers the period between 15 March – 15 October 2018.
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Annual Report of the Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council 2017-2018
23 APRIL 2018 | REPORT
This Annual Report of the Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC) covers the period 1 April 2017 – 15 March 2018. It outlines main RCC activities and achievements in the past year. It also lays out the overall background and crucial developments impacting and shaping the activities of the RCC and the region of South East Europe in the reporting period.
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Report on the activities of the Regional Cooperation Council Secretariat for the period 1 September - 31 December 2017
20 MARCH 2018 | REPORT
The Report on the activities of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC) Secretariat is submitted by the RCC Secretary General to the RCC Board in line with Article 15 of the Statute of the RCC. It covers the period between 1 September – 31 December 2017 .
REPORT ON THE ACTIVITIES OF THE REGIONAL COOPERATION COUNCIL SECRETARIAT FOR THE PERIOD 1 April – 31 August 2017
18 OCTOBER 2017 | REPORT
The Report on the activities of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC) Secretariat is submitted by the RCC Secretary General to the RCC Board in line with Article 15 of the Statute of the RCC. It covers the period between 1 April – 31 August 2017 .
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BALKAN BAROMETER 2017 - INFOGRAPHICS
09 OCTOBER 2017 | SURVEY
This publication features the prevailing issues of the Balkan Barometer (BB) 2017 survey through infographics. The 2017 edition of BB is yet another instalment in the series of annual public opinion surveys commissioned by the Regional Cooperation Council. The entire BB survey is available at http://www.rcc.int/seeds
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BALKAN BAROMETER 2017: BUSINESS OPINION SURVEY
09 OCTOBER 2017 | SURVEY
The 2017 edition of BALKAN BAROMETER (BB) is yet another instalment in the series of annual public opinion surveys commissioned by the Regional Cooperation Council. It collects and analyses data across a host of thematic areas, examining aspirations and expectations of the region's populations and its business community on life and work, prevalent socio-economic and political trends as well as regional and European integration, among others. Balkan Barometer Business Opinion Survey conducted by GfK, among 16800 companies in the course of 2016 throughout our part of Europe, is an easy-to-access source of information. The RCC website www.rcc.int permits download of the publication as well as its datasets which are easily searchable.
Download: EN
BALKAN BAROMETER 2017: PUBLIC OPINION SURVEY
09 OCTOBER 2017 | SURVEY
The 2017 edition of BALKAN BAROMETER (BB) is yet another instalment in the series of annual public opinion surveys commissioned by the Regional Cooperation Council. It collects and analyses data across a host of thematic areas, examining aspirations and expectations of the region's populations and its business community on life and work, prevalent socio-economic and political trends as well as regional and European integration, among others. Balkan Barometer Public Opinion Survey conducted by GfK, among 8000 citizens in the course of 2016 throughout our part of Europe, is an easy-to-access source of information. The RCC website www.rcc.int permits download of the publication as well as its datasets which are easily searchable.
Download: EN
Multi-annual Action Plan for a Regional Economic Area in the Western Balkans Six
12 JULY 2017 | MEETING DOCUMENT
The leaders of Western Balkans Six (WB6) endorsed the Multi-annual Action Plan on a Regional Economic Area in the Western Balkans (MAP), prepared by the RCC, at the Berlin Process summit on 12 July 2017, in Trieste, Italy . The RCC has been tasked to monitor and inform on the progress achieved in MAP implementation.
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Annual Report of the Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council 2016-2017
29 JUNE 2017 | REPORT
The Annual Report of the Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC) covers the period 1 April 2016 – 31 March 2017. It outlines main RCC activities and achievements in the past year. It also lays out the overall background and crucial developments impacting and shaping the activities of the RCC and the region of South East Europe in the reporting period.
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Report on the activities of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC) Secretariat for the period 1 January – 31 March 2017
16 MAY 2017 | REPORT
The Report on the activities of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC) Secretariat is submitted by the RCC Secretary General to the RCC Board in line with Article 15 of the Statute of the RCC. It covers the period between 1 January and 31 March 2017.
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Report on the activities of the Regional Cooperation Council Secretariat for the period 1 September – 31 December 2016
15 MARCH 2017 | REPORT
The Report was presented by the RCC Secretary General Goran Svilanovic at the RCC Board meeting held at the RCC Secretariat on 15 March 2017.
Download: EN
Competitiveness
01 JANUARY 2017 | INFORMATION MATERIAL
Brochure on RCC’s flagship ‘Competitiveness’, featuring goals, results, and actions of the organization in this area to be taken in the forthcoming period. The Regional Cooperation Council is working towards integration of the South East Europe market, making it more competitive on the global business scene, and generating more revenues and jobs
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Balkan Barometer 2016, Infographics, pocket edition
10 NOVEMBER 2016 | SURVEY
Balkan Barometer 2016 edition is a comprehensive survey commissioned by the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC) on attitudes, experiences and perceptions of the general public and business community in South East Europe on various economic, social, political and cultural issues. It is an integral part of the annual monitoring process of the SEE2020 Strategy. Balkan Barometer pocket edition reveals the main thoughts of people and businesses on burning issues facing our economies, through infographics. This survey, conducted by GfK, among 8000 citizens and 1800 companies through our part of Europe, is an easy-to-access source of information. The RCC website www.rcc.int permits download of both components of the Balkan Barometer - Public Opinion Survey and Business Opinion Survey - as well as their datasets which are easily searchable. Check it out at: http://www.rcc.int/seeds/results/2/balkan-opinion-barometer and http://www.rcc.int/seeds/results/3/balkan-business-barometer
Download: EN
Report on the activities of the Regional Cooperation Council Secretariat for the period 1 April – 31 August 2016
12 OCTOBER 2016 | REPORT
The Report was presented by the RCC Secretary General Goran Svilanovic at the RCC Board meeting held at the RCC Secretariat on 12 October 2016
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Report on the activities of the Regional Cooperation Council Secretariat for the period 1 April - 15 September 2014
16 SEPTEMBER 2016 | REPORT
The Report was presented by the RCC Secretary General Goran Svilanovic at the RCC Board meeting held at the RCC Secretariat on 15 October 2014
Download: EN
Report on the activities of the Regional Cooperation Council Secretariat for the period 21 September - 31 December 2014
16 SEPTEMBER 2016 | REPORT
The Report was presented by the RCC Secretary General Goran Svilanovic at the RCC Board meeting held at the RCC Secretariat on 26 February 2015
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Report on the activities of the Regional Cooperation Council Secretariat for the period 1 April - 20 September 2015
16 SEPTEMBER 2016 | AGREEMENT
The Report was presented by the RCC Secretary General Goran Svilanovic at the RCC Board meeting held at the RCC Secretariat on 15 October 2015
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Report on the activities of the Regional Cooperation Council Secretariat for the period 1 January - 31 March 2015
16 SEPTEMBER 2016 | REPORT
The Report was presented by the RCC Secretary General Goran Svilanovic at the RCC Board meeting held at the RCC Secretariat on 12 May 2015
Download: EN
Strategy and Work Programme 2017-2019, 'Changing with the Region'
31 MAY 2016 | REPORT
The Strategy and Work Programme 2017-2019, 'Changing with the Region', of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC) Secretariat, endorsed at the RCC Annual Meeting, on 31 May 2016 in Pravets, Bulgaria, has been designed to respond to the needs of the region and add value to cooperation in South East Europe in the areas of joint interest. The Strategy and Work Programme outlines the organisation’s vision and activities for the next three years.
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Report on the activities of the Regional Cooperation Council Secretariat for the period 1 January – 31 March 2016
11 MAY 2016 | REPORT
The Report was presented by the RCC Secretary General Goran Svilanovic at the RCC Board meeting held at the RCC Secretariat on 11 May 2016
Download: EN
Annual Report of the Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council on Regional Cooperation in South East Europe in 2015-2016
11 MAY 2016 | REPORT
The Annual Report of the Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC) covers the period 1 April 2015 – 31 March 2016. It outlines main RCC activities and achievements in the past year. It also lays out the overall background and crucial developments impacting and shaping the activities of the RCC and the region of South East Europe in the reporting period.
Download: EN
Report on the activities of the Regional Cooperation Council Secretariat for the period 1 October – 31 December 2015
03 FEBRUARY 2016 | REPORT
The Report was presented by the RCC Secretary General Goran Svilanovic at the 28th RCC Board meeting held at the RCC Secretariat on 26 February 2016.
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Article by RCC Secretary General for Europe's World
23 OCTOBER 2015 | ARTICLE
Europe's World, independent Europe-wide policy journal, published in its Autumn issue an article by Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council, Goran Svilanovic, on EU enlargement.
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Article by RCC Secretary General for Montenegrin daily Vijesti
11 SEPTEMBER 2015 | ARTICLE
Montenegrin daily Vijesti published on 11 September 2015, an article by the Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC), Goran Svilanovic, on the recently held event in Ankara on connecting South East Europe businesses, co-organized by the RCC as a part of the B20 meeting of business people from G20 countries, which served as preparation for the next summit of the 20 most developed world economies.
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Interview by RCC Secretary General to Radio Free Europe
10 SEPTEMBER 2015 | INTERVIEW
In an interview for Radio Free Europe, Goran Svilanovic, Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council, spoke about the current refugee crisis, described as the largest since the World War II.
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Interview by RCC Secretary General to Serbian business magazine BizLife
08 SEPTEMBER 2015 | INTERVIEW
In the interview the RCC Secretary General speaks about bilateral issues in the region, political situation in SEE, RCC Balkan Barometer, Balkans EU aspirations, investment opportunities and common market, as well as about RCC’s activities in boosting economic development of the region and regional cooperation in general.
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Interview with Goran Svilanovic, RCC Secretary General : “I am an optimist because of Western Balkan's strong desire to be a part of the EU family of nations"
26 MAY 2015 | INTERVIEW
RCC Secretary General, Goran Svilanovic, on achievements and future plans of the Secretariat.
Annual Report of the Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council on Regional Cooperation in South East Europe in 2014-2015
12 MAY 2015 | REPORT
The report covers the period April 2014-March 2015 and outlines main RCC activities and achievements in the past year. It also lays out the overall background and crucial developments impacting and shaping the activities of the RCC and the region of South East Europe in the reporting period.
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Article/audio recording by Radio Funkhaus Europa featuring Regional Cooperation Council
11 DECEMBER 2014 | ARTICLE
The article/audio recording features RCC past and future activites.
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Interview by RCC Secretary General, Goran Svilanovic, to Serbian daily Politika
09 DECEMBER 2014 | INTERVIEW
In the interview the RCC Secretary General speaks about the EU prospects of the region.
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Interview by RCC Secretary General, Goran Svilanovic, to BiH weekly Dani
28 NOVEMBER 2014 | INTERVIEW
In the interview the RCC Secretary General speaks about the current momentum in the region, explains why he thinks BiH will make significant steps forward in 2015, presents the SEE 2020 Strategy for employment, and explains why he brings Nusic’s play ‘Gospodja Ministarka’ to the citizens of Sarajevo.
The address of Secretary General of the RCC, Goran Svilanovic, at the WB6 Meeting in Belgrade
23 OCTOBER 2014 | SPEECH
The speech was delivered at the WB6 Meeting in Belgrade – Economic Governance and Connectivity
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Interview by Goran Svilanovic, Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council to ONASA news Agency
11 JULY 2014 | INTERVIEW
Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC) Goran Svilanovic speaks about SEE 2020 Strategy, regional relations, RCC plans and activities in the interview to ONASA Agency
Annual Report of the Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council on regional cooperation in South East Europe in 2013-2014
19 JUNE 2014 | REPORT
The report covers the period April 2013-April 2014 and outlines main RCC activities and achievements in the past year. It also lays out the overall background and crucial developments impacting and shaping the activities of the RCC and the region of South East Europe in the reporting period.
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Interview by RCC Secretary General, Goran Svilanovic, to Turkish Anadolu Agency
31 MAY 2014 | INTERVIEW
In the interview the RCC Secretary General speaks about the RCC’s activities and their focus on economy issues.
Interview by RCC Secretary General, Goran Svilanovic, to Serbian daily Danas
15 MAY 2014 | INTERVIEW
In the interview the RCC Secretary General speaks about Serbian Prime Minister, Aleksandar Vucic's, visit to Sarajevo
Address by the RCC Secretary General, Goran Svilanovic, at the Sarajevo Business Forum
14 MAY 2014 | SPEECH
The speech was delivered at the event organized in cooperation with the RCC Secretariat, on 14 May 2014, within the panel “Regional investments and business guidelines”, chaired by the RCC Secretary General
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Interview by RCC Secretary General, Goran Svilanovic, to Serbian Magazine CorD
01 MAY 2014 | INTERVIEW
In the interview the RCC Secretary General is speaking about the RCC’s SEE 2020 Strategy, organisation's priorities, economic situation in SEE and regional cooperation.
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Address by RCC Secretary General, Goran Svilanovic, at the conference ‘Enhancing Growth through Regional Action – South East Europe 2020’
18 MARCH 2014 | SPEECH
The speech was delivered at the event marking the completion of project Improving Cooperation in South-East Europe by Actions for Strengthening the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC), organised by CEI and the RCC Secretariat.
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Interview by RCC Secretary General, Goran Svilanovic, to BiH news agency FENA
02 MARCH 2014 | INTERVIEW
In the interview the RCC Secretary General speaks about the new approach of the European Union towards the countries in the region, RCC’s South East Europe (SEE) 2020 strategy, and social protests.
Report to RCC Board on activities of RCC Secretariat
27 FEBRUARY 2014 | REPORT
The report covers the period from 1 October to 31 December 2013.
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Article by BiH news agency FENA featuring Regional Cooperation Council
27 FEBRUARY 2014 | ARTICLE
The article was published on the occasion of Regional Cooperation Council (RCC)'s sixth anniversary, on 27 February 2014.
Address by RCC Secretary General, Goran Svilanovic, at EBRD high-level meeting on investing in the Western Balkans
24 FEBRUARY 2014 | SPEECH
The Speech was delivered at the conference “Investing in the Western Balkans”, hosted by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, in London on 24 February 2014
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Article by RCC Secretary General, Goran Svilanovic, featuring RCC’s SEE 2020 strategy
27 JANUARY 2014 | ARTICLE
The author article by the RCC Secretary General, has been published by 9 dailies from the region: in Politika (Serbia, published on 24 January 2014); Dnevni avaz, Nezavisne novine and Vecernji list (Bosnia and Herzegovina, published on 22 January 2014); Vijesti (Montenegro, published on 20 January 2014); Mapo (Albania, published on 17 January 2014); Jutarnji list (Croatia, published on 17 January 2014); Utrinski vesnik (The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, published on 17 January 2014); and Tribuna (Kosovo*, published on 16 January 2014). The articles, including all translations to English are available at the language links below.
*This designation is without prejudice to positions on status, and is in line with UNSCR 1244 and the ICJ Opinion on the Kosovo declaration of independence.
Address by RCC Secretary General, Goran Svilanovic, at the South East Europe Investment Committee Ministerial Conference
21 NOVEMBER 2013 | SPEECH
The opening address has been delivered at the conference held on 21 November 2013.
South East Europe 2020 strategy
21 NOVEMBER 2013 | REPORT
The goal of the South East Europe (SEE) 2020 strategy of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC), is to improve living conditions in the region and bring competitiveness and development back in focus, closely following the vision of the EU strategy Europe 2020. It stresses out the shared vision of the SEE economies to open up to 1 million new jobs by 2020, by enabling employment growth from 39% to 44%, increase of total regional trade turnover by more than double from 94 to 210 billion euro, the rise of the region’s GDP per capita from current 36% to 44% of the EU average, and the addition of 300,000 highly qualified people to the workforce.
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Address by Goran Svilanovic, RCC Secretary General, at Western Balkans Regional Research and Development Strategy for Innovation Ministerial meeting
25 OCTOBER 2013 | SPEECH
The Secretary General of the RCC delivered the address at the Western Balkans Regional Research and Development Strategy for Innovation Ministerial meeting in Zagreb, Croatia on 25 October 2013
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Report to RCC Board on activities of RCC Secretariat
02 OCTOBER 2013 | REPORT
The report covers the period from 24 April to 20 September 2013, and reflects progress in implementation of the RCC Strategy and Work Programme 2011-2013.
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Article by RCC Secretary General, Goran Svilanovic, to The Parliament Magazine
02 OCTOBER 2013 | ARTICLE
In the article, the RCC Secretary General writes about regional challenges and economic cooperation in South East Europe (SEE), featuring RCC’s SEE 2020 strategy.
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Article by Goran Svilanovic, RCC Secretary General, to World Commerce Review
24 SEPTEMBER 2013 | ARTICLE
In the article, the RCC Secretary General is commenting regional cooperation in South East Europe and RCC’s role in that context, especially in relation to the preparation of the SEE 2020 strategy.
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Address by Goran Svilanovic, RCC Secretary General, at the 2nd Academy on Media Law in South East Europe
05 SEPTEMBER 2013 | SPEECH
The Secretary General of the RCC delivered the address at the closing of the Academy on Media Law in South East Europe, in Sarajevo on 5 September 2013.
Interview by RCC Secretary General, Goran Svilanovic, to Serbian news agency Tanjug
21 JULY 2013 | INTERVIEW
In the interview the RCC Secretary General is speaking about the situation in Serbia, Belgrade-Prishtina relations, and regional cooperation.
Interview by RCC Secretary General, Goran Svilanovic, to Serbian weekly Nin
18 JULY 2013 | INTERVIEW
In the interview the RCC Secretary General speaks about Serbia’s EU integration, Belgrade-Prishtina agreement, impacts of Croatia’s EU entry, regional cooperation, and main goals of South East Europe (SEE) 2020 growth strategy.
Article by RCC Secretary General Goran Svilanovic to Al Jazeera
29 JUNE 2013 | ARTICLE
The article, published at the portal of Al Jazeera Balkans, is a commentary of Croatia’s entry into the EU.
Interview by RCC Secretary General, Goran Svilanovic, to Bosnia and Herzegovina daily Oslobodjenje
27 JUNE 2013 | INTERVIEW
The RCC Secretary General talks about political situation in South East Europe, regional cooperation and the RCC role, especially in relation to the SEE 2020 growth strategy.
Article by RCC Secretary General, Goran Svilanovic, to Serbian daily Danas
26 JUNE 2013 | ARTICLE
The article discusses regional cooperation, EU integration, SEE 2020 and Serbia in this context.
Address by RCC Secretary General Goran Svilanović at the meeting of SEECP Ministers of Foreign Affairs
31 MAY 2013 | SPEECH
The address was delivered in Ohrid on 31 May 2013.
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Address by the Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council, Goran Svilanovic, at the fifth RCC Annual Meeting
30 MAY 2013 | SPEECH
The fifth RCC Annual Meeting was held on 30 May 2013 in Ohrid.
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Strategy and Work Programme of the Regional Cooperation Council for 2014-2016
30 MAY 2013 | REPORT
The strategy was adopted by the RCC Board on 25 April 2013 in Sarajevo and endorsed by the participants of the RCC Annual Meeting, on 30 May 2013 in Ohrid.
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Annual Report of the Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council on regional cooperation in South East Europe in 2012-2013
30 MAY 2013 | REPORT
The report, endorsed by the participants of the RCC Annual Meeting, on 30 May 2013 in Ohrid, covers the period May 2012 – April 2013.
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Strategy and Work Programme of the Regional Cooperation Council for 2014-2016
30 MAY 2013 | REPORT
The strategy was adopted by the RCC Board on 25 April 2013 in Sarajevo and endorsed by the participants of the RCC Annual Meeting, on 30 May 2013 in Ohrid.
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Address by RCC Secretary General, Goran Svilanovic, at the OSCE Permanent Council meeting
02 MAY 2013 | SPEECH
The Permanent Council meeting of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), was held in Vienna, on 2 May 2013. The document containing RCC Secretary General’s address also includes links to available responses by the missions to OSCE.
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Statute of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC)
25 APRIL 2013 | DECLARATION/DECISION
As amended by the RCC Board on 25 April 2013
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Report to RCC Board on activities of RCC Secretariat
25 APRIL 2013 | REPORT
The report covers the period from 18 February to 10 April 2013, and reflects progress in implementation of the RCC Strategy and Work Programme 2011-2013.
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Interview by RCC Secretary General, Goran Svilanovic, to Serbian weekly Novi magazin
25 APRIL 2013 | INTERVIEW
In the interview RCC Secretary General speaks about Belgrade-Prishtina agreement, RCC activities and South East Europe (SEE) 2020 Strategy.
Interview by RCC Secretary General, Goran Svilanovic, to Serbian monthly Kurir Go International
22 APRIL 2013 | INTERVIEW
In the interview, RCC Secretary General speaks about importance of regional cooperation in South East Europe (SEE), RCC activities and preparation of SEE 2020 Strategy.
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Address by RCC Secretary General, Goran Svilanovic, at the informal meeting of the ministers of foreign affairs of the South East European Co-operation Process (SEECP)
10 APRIL 2013 | SPEECH
The meeting was held in Skopje on 10 April 2013.
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Interview by RCC Secretary General, Goran Svilanovic, to Prishtina daily Koha Ditore
02 APRIL 2013 | INTERVIEW
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Statement by RCC Secretary General, Goran Svilanovic, to BiH news agency Fena
13 MARCH 2013 | INTERVIEW
Secretary General Svilanovic talks about opportunities for the region under the new EU Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance (IPA II).
Address by RCC Secretary General Goran Svilanovic at a meeting of the European Association of Public Service Media in South East Europe
08 MARCH 2013 | SPEECH
The meeting was hosted by Radio-Television Slovenia, in Ljubljana, on 8 March 2013.
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Interview by RCC Secretary General, Goran Svilanovic, to Croatian public broadcaster HRT
28 FEBRUARY 2013 | INTERVIEW
The interview has been broadcasted in HRT's magazine ‘Horizonti’ on 27 February 2013.
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Report to RCC Board on activities of RCC Secretariat
28 FEBRUARY 2013 | REPORT
The report covers the period from 8 October 2012 to 15 February 2013, and reflects progress in implementation of the RCC Strategy and Work Programme 2011-2013
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Participants of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC)
28 FEBRUARY 2013 | DECLARATION/DECISION
As amended by the RCC Board on 28 February 2013
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Address by RCC Secretary General, Goran Svilanović, at a panel discussion marking the 5th RCC anniversary
27 FEBRUARY 2013 | SPEECH
A panel discussion ‘Five years of Regional Cooperation Council: Building on foundations and embracing new challenges’, was a central element which marked the fifth anniversary of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC), in Sarajevo on 27 February 2013.
Interview by RCC Secretary General, Goran Svilanovic, to Beta news agency and EurActiv Serbia portal
18 FEBRUARY 2013 | INTERVIEW
In the interview the RCC Secretary General speaks about development of South East Europe 2020 Strategy, activities of the RCC, region’s EU integration processes, neighbourly relations and cooperation in the region, visa-free regime for Western Balkans, etc.
Interview by RCC Secretary General, Goran Svilanovic, to Serbian daily Blic
18 FEBRUARY 2013 | INTERVIEW
In the interview, the RCC Secretary General speaks about objectives of the South East Europe 2020 Strategy, current relations in the region, and his meetings with Serbia’s top officials in Belgrade last week.
Interview by RCC Secretary General, Goran Svilanovic, to BiH daily Dnevni avaz
02 FEBRUARY 2013 | INTERVIEW
In the interview, the RCC Secretary General speaks about South East Europe (SEE) 2020 Strategy, economic situation in SEE, priorities of RCC in its activity areas, region’s EU bids, etc.
Interview by Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council, Goran Svilanovic, to BiH News Agency FENA
31 JANUARY 2013 | INTERVIEW
In the interview, the RCC Secretary General talks about current state of regional cooperation, EU integration, dangers of abolishment of visa-free regime for the Balkan countries and the priorities in the RCC work.
Interview by Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council, Goran Svilanovic, to BiH News Agency SRNA
31 JANUARY 2013 | INTERVIEW
In the focus of the RCC Secretary General’s interview to SRNA, published yesterday, is South East Europe 2020 (SEE 2020) Strategy.
Interview by RCC Secretary General, Goran Svilanovic, to BiH public broadcaster BHT1
31 JANUARY 2013 | INTERVIEW
In the interview, the RCC Secretary General speaks about the future priorities of the organisation, regional cooperation in South East Europe (SEE), SEE 2020 Strategy, etc. The interview was broadcasted on BHT1’s central newscast on 31 January 2013.
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Interview by RCC Secretary General, Goran Svilanovic, to Bosnia and Herzegovina’s TV1
31 JANUARY 2013 | INTERVIEW
In the interview, broadcasted on TV1’s central newscast on 31 January 2013, the RCC Secretary General speaks about priorities of the organisation in the future period, importance of regional cooperation in Western Balkans’ EU accession process, RCC projects, etc.
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Interview by RCC Secretary General, Hido Biščević, to Radio Free Europe
29 DECEMBER 2012 | INTERVIEW
Address by RCC Secretary General, Hido Bisevic, at the ministerial conference ‘National Museums in South East Europe - Status, Management and Partnerships’
13 NOVEMBER 2012 | SPEECH
The address was delivered at the ministerial conference in Skopje, on 13 November 2012.
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Address by the RCC Secretary General, Hido Biscevic, at the South East Europe Investment Committee Ministerial Conference
09 NOVEMBER 2012 | SPEECH
The address was delivered at the conference held in Tirana, Albania, on 9 November 2012.
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Interview by Hido Biscevic, Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council, to BiH news agency FENA
04 NOVEMBER 2012 | INTERVIEW
In the interview, published on 4 November 2012, the RCC Secretary General speaks about regional cooperation in South East Europe following the recent European Commission’s 2012 Enlargement Package.
Address by RCC Secretary General, Hido Biščević, at a conference on financing digitalization in Eastern Europe
29 OCTOBER 2012 | SPEECH
The address was delivered at a conference on financing digitalization in Eastern Europe, ‘The Challenge for Public Service Broadcasters’, held in Vienna, Austria, on 29 October 2012.
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Report to RCC Board on activities of RCC Secretariat
18 OCTOBER 2012 | REPORT
The report covers the period from 4 May to 5 October 2012, and reflects progress in implementation of the RCC Strategy and Work Programme 2011-2013.
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Interview by RCC Secretary General, Hido Biscevic, to Anadolu Agency
17 OCTOBER 2012 | INTERVIEW
In the interview, the RCC Secretary General speaks about visa and enlargement issues in the Western Balkans.
Article by RCC Secretary General, Hido Biščević, to World Commerce Review
30 SEPTEMBER 2012 | ARTICLE
The article, published in the September 2012 issue of the World Commerce Review, focuses on regional cooperation and development potentials in South East Europe.
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Opening address by RCC Secretary General, Hido Biscevic, at the 3rd Road Congress in South East Europe
20 SEPTEMBER 2012 | AGREEMENT
The event, co-organized by the Association of Consulting Engineers of Bosnia and Herzegovina (ACE BiH) and the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC) Secretariat, with support of the Ministry of Communications and Transport of Bosnia and Herzegovina, took place on 20-21 September in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina.
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Address by RCC Secretary General, Hido Biščević, at the third meeting of ISIS Programme Governing Body
12 SEPTEMBER 2012 | SPEECH
The third Governing Body meeting of the Implementation of Single European Sky (ISIS) Programme in South East Europe, which took place in Ohrid on 12 September 2012, was co-organized by the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC) Secretariat and the European Commission’s Directorate General for Mobility and Transport.
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Commentary by Hido Biscevic, Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council, to BiH news agency FENA
05 JULY 2012 | INTERVIEW
The RCC Secretary General comments regional cooperation and EU integration process in South East Europe.
Interview by Hido Biscevic, Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council, to BiH news agency FENA
24 JUNE 2012 | INTERVIEW
In the interview, published on 24 June 2012, the RCC Secretary General speaks about the issues in the region and current political and economic situation that affects South East Europe.
Interview by Hido Biscevic, Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council, to SensServis
20 JUNE 2012 | INTERVIEW
In the interview the RCC Secretary General speaks about the organisation’s Strategy and Work Programme 2011-2013, RCC achievements and future challenges.
Address by RCC Secretary General Hido Biscevic at the meeting of the Heads of State and Government of the South-East European Cooperation Process
15 JUNE 2012 | SPEECH
The address was delivered in Belgrade, Serbia, on 15 June 2012
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Address by RCC Secretary General Hido Biscevic at the meeting of SEECP Ministers of Foreign Affairs
14 JUNE 2012 | SPEECH
The address was delivered in Belgrade, Serbia, on 14 June 2012.
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Address by the Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC), Hido Biscevic, at the RCC Annual Meeting
13 JUNE 2012 | SPEECH
The fourth RCC Annual Meeting was held on 13 June 2012 in Belgrade, Serbia.
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Annual Report of the Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council on regional co-operation in South East Europe in 2011-2012
13 JUNE 2012 | REPORT
The report, endorsed by the participants of the RCC Annual Meeting, on 13 June 2012 in Belgrade, Serbia, covers the period May 2011-May 2012.
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Interview by Hido Biscevic, Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council, to Deutsche Welle
07 JUNE 2012 | INTERVIEW
In the interview, published on 7 June 2012, the RCC Secretary General speaks about regional cooperation in South East Europe.
Opening address by Hido Biscevic, RCC Secretary General, at the First Academy on Media Law in South East Europe
04 JUNE 2012 | SPEECH
The address was delivered at the opening of the first academy on media law in South East Europe, in Zagreb, Croatia, on 4 June 2012. The week-long event has been organized under the auspices of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC), with support of the Friedrich Ebert Foundation, the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, and the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina. The project will be implemented by ARTICLE 19: Global Campaign for Free Expression and the European Association of Public Service Media in South East Europe.
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Report to RCC Board on activities of RCC Secretariat
15 MAY 2012 | REPORT
The report covers the period from 6 March to 3 May 2012, and reflects progress in implementation of the RCC Strategy and Work Programme 2011-2013.
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Article by RCC Secretary General, Hido Biscevic, published in ‘Die Südosteuropa Mitteilungen’, the journal of Southeast Europe Association
25 APRIL 2012 | ARTICLE
The article has been published in the first 2012 issue of ‘Die Südosteuropa Mitteilungen’, the journal of Southeast Europe Association.
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Address by RCC Secretary General, Hido Biscevic, at 10th meeting of South East Europe Investment Committee
24 APRIL 2012 | SPEECH
The meeting was held at RCC Secretariat in Sarajevo on 24-25 April 2012.
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Address by RCC Secretary General, Hido Biscevic, at 13th Bled Forum
29 MARCH 2012 | SPEECH
The address was delivered at the 13th Bled Forum’s ‘Foresight Conference: Europe Beyond Smart – Inclusive – Sustainable, Throughout Cloud Computing Decade’, held in Bled, Slovenia, on 29-30 March 2012.
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Report to RCC Board on activities of RCC Secretariat
15 MARCH 2012 | REPORT
The report covers the period from 30 November 2011 to 5 March 2012, and reflects progress in implementation of the RCC Strategy and Work Programme 2011-2013.
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Welcoming speech by RCC Secretary General, Hido Biscevic, at a panel discussion ‘From Ownership to Responsibility: Regional Cooperation in South East Europe and EU Membership’
14 MARCH 2012 | SPEECH
The panel discussion was held in Sarajevo, BiH, on 14 March 2012, to mark the 4th anniversary of the Regional Cooperation Council.
Self-assessment Report on the First Year of Implementation of RCC Strategy and Work Programme 2011-2013
27 FEBRUARY 2012 | REPORT
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Address by RCC Secretary General, Hido Biscevic, at informal meeting of SEECP ministers of foreign affairs
31 JANUARY 2012 | SPEECH
The meeting took place on 31 January 2012, in Belgrade, Serbia.
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Interview by RCC Secretary General, Hido Biscevic, published by Albanian daily Gazeta Shqiptare
21 JANUARY 2012 | INTERVIEW
In the interview RCC Secretary General speaks about the RCC’s work and the regional cooperation in South East Europe.
Interview by RCC Secretary General, Hido Biscevic, to BiH daily Dnevni avaz
15 JANUARY 2012 | INTERVIEW
In the interview RCC Secretary General speaks about relations in South East Europe today as compared to 2008.
Article by RCC Secretary General, Hido Biscevic, to New Europe weekly
02 JANUARY 2012 | ARTICLE
The article speaks about regional cooperation in South East Europe.
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Interview by Hido Biscevic, RCC Secretary General, to Albanian weekly Tirana Times
23 DECEMBER 2011 | INTERVIEW
In the interview, published on 23 December 2011, the RCC Secretary General speaks about the organization’s work and the regional cooperation in South East Europe.
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Report to RCC Board on activities of RCC Secretariat
08 DECEMBER 2011 | REPORT
The report covers the period from 9 September - 30 November 2011, and reflects progress in implementation of the RCC Strategy and Work Programme 2011-2013.
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Written address by Hido Biščević, RCC Secretary General, at the 18th Meeting of the OSCE Ministerial Council
06 DECEMBER 2011 | SPEECH
The 18th meeting of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE)’s Ministerial Council took place on 6-7 December 2011, in Vilnius, Lithuania.
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Opening address by the RCC Secretary General, Hido Biščević, at the IPA Multi-Beneficiary Coordination Meeting
16 NOVEMBER 2011 | SPEECH
The two-day meeting, hosted by the RCC Secretariat, opened on 15 November 2011 in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina.
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Opening address by Hido Biščević, RCC Secretary General, at the International seminar ‘South East Europe 20 Years On: Transformation from State to Public Broadcasting’
14 NOVEMBER 2011 | SPEECH
The seminar, co-organized by the European Commission (EC)’s Enlargement Directorate-General and the RCC Secretariat, with support of the European Association of Public Service Media in South East Europe and the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), was held on 14 November in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Interview by RCC Secretary General, Hido Biscevic, to the news portal Osservatorio Balcani e Caucaso
19 OCTOBER 2011 | INTERVIEW
The interview has been published on 19 October 2011. It has been carried by the Le Courrier des Balkans as well, on 26 October 2011.
Address by the RCC Secretary General, Hido Biscevic at the Third Health Ministerial Forum: Health in All Policies
13 OCTOBER 2011 | SPEECH
The address has been delivered at a two-day meeting on 13 October 2011 in Banja Luka, Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Protocol on Regional Cooperation in Education and Training among members of the European Association of Public Service Media in South East Europe
30 SEPTEMBER 2011 | AGREEMENT
The Protocol has been signed by directors general of 12 public broadcasters, as well by RCC and EBU, on 30 September 2011 in Sarajevo.
Address by RCC Secretary General, Hido Biscevic, at the signing of protocol on regional cooperation in education and training among members of the European Association of Public Service Media in South East Europe.
30 SEPTEMBER 2011 | SPEECH
The address has been delivered at the meeting in Sarajevo on 30 September 2011.
Interview by Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council, Hido Biščević, to BiH daily Dnevni list
29 SEPTEMBER 2011 | INTERVIEW
This is the second, economic, part of the interview published on 29 September 2011.
Interview by Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council, Hido Biščević, to BiH daily Dnevni list
25 SEPTEMBER 2011 | INTERVIEW
This is the first, political, part of the interview published on 25 September 2011.
Report to RCC Board on activities of RCC Secretariat
15 SEPTEMBER 2011 | REPORT
The report covers the period from 9 May 2011 to 9 September 2011, and reflects progress in implementation of the RCC Strategy and Work Programme 2011-2013.
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Interview by Hido Biscevic, Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council, to Croatian daily Slobodna Dalmacija
09 JULY 2011 | INTERVIEW
In the interview RCC Secretary General talks about activities of the organisation and regional cooperation in South East Europe.
Declaration of the 14th meeting of the Heads of State and Government of the South-East European Cooperation Process (SEECP)
30 JUNE 2011 | DECLARATION/DECISION
The document has been adopted on 30 June 2011 in Budva, Montenegro.
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Address of RCC Secretary General Hido Biscevic at the meeting of SEECP Ministers of Foreign Affairs, 29 June 2011
29 JUNE 2011 | SPEECH
The address was delivered in Budva, Montenegro.
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Address by the Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC), Hido Biscevic, at the RCC Annual Meeting
28 JUNE 2011 | SPEECH
The third RCC Annual Meeting was held on 28 June 2011, in Becici, Montenegro.
Annual Report of the Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council on regional co-operation in South East Europe in 2010-2011
28 JUNE 2011 | REPORT
The report, endorsed by the participants of the RCC Annual Meeting, on 28 June 2011 in Becici, Montenegro, covers the period May 2010-May 2011.
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Interview by Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC), Hido Biscevic, to Montenegrin daily Pobjeda
25 JUNE 2011 | INTERVIEW
In the interview, given prior to the third RCC Annual Meeting, which was held on 28 June 2011 in Becici, Montenegro, the RCC Secretary General speaks about the organisation’s past activities and future challenges.
Address by RCC Secretary General, Hido Biščević, at the constitutive meeting of the RCC Task force on Culture and Society
23 JUNE 2011 | SPEECH
The event was held on 23 June 2011 in Cetinje, Montenegro.
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Address by RCC Secretary General, Hido Biščević, at the seminar on railway reform in South East Europe and Turkey
14 JUNE 2011 | SPEECH
The event was held on 14 June 2011 in Brussels.
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Address by RCC Secretary General, Hido Biscevic at the meeting of Ministers of Foreign Affairs of Central European Initiative
10 JUNE 2011 | SPEECH
The event took place on 10 June 2011, in Trieste, Italy.
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Quarterly report by RCC Secretary General Hido Biscevic
12 MAY 2011 | REPORT
The report covers the period from 9 March 2011 to 9 May 2011, and reflects progress in implementation of the RCC Strategy and Work Programme 2011-2013.
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Address by RCC Secretary General, Hido Biscevic, at the OSCE Permanent Council meeting
14 APRIL 2011 | SPEECH
The Permanent Council meeting of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), was held in Vienna, on 14 April 2011. The document containing RCC Secretary General’s address also includes links to available responses by the missions to OSCE.
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Interview by RCC Secretary General, Hido Biscevic, to Serbian Radio Novi Sad
06 APRIL 2011 | INTERVIEW
In the interview, RCC Secretary General speaks about the conference ‘Western Balkans and Europe 2020 – Towards Convergence and Growth’, organized by RCC on 30-31 March 2011 in Brussels, as well as about RCC activities in general.
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Article by New Europe weekly featuring Regional Cooperation Council’s activities
03 APRIL 2011 | ARTICLE
The article reports on the conference ‘Western Balkans and Europe 2020 – Towards Convergence and Growth’, organized by the Regional Cooperation Council Secretariat on 30-31 March in Brussels.
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Address by the RCC Secretary General, Hido Biscevic, at the conference 'Western Balkans and Europe 2020: Path Towards Convergence and Growth’
30 MARCH 2011 | SPEECH
The event, that gathered over 100 participants, was held in Brussels, Belgium on 30-31 March 2011.
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Common Declaration of SEECP Ministers of Justice and Home Affairs regarding the endorsement of the Regional Strategic Document 2011-2013 and the Action Plan for its implementation
18 MARCH 2011 | DECLARATION/DECISION
The Declaration was adopted by the Ministers in Budva, Montenegro, on 18 March 2011.
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Regional Strategic Document on Justice and Home Affairs 2011-2013 and the Action Plan for its implementation
18 MARCH 2011 | REPORT
The Strategic Document was endorsed by the Ministers in Budva, Montenegro, on 18 March 2011.
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Address by the RCC Secretary General, Hido Biscevic, at the regional conference of ministers of justice and ministers of interior from South East Europe
17 MARCH 2011 | SPEECH
The SEECP ministerial conference ‘Strengthening Co-operation in Fight against Organized Crime in South East Europe’ was held in Budva, Montenegro on 16-18 March 2011.
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Address by RCC Secretary General, Hido Biscevic, at the meeting of defense ministers of the South-East European Cooperation Process
15 MARCH 2011 | SPEECH
The meeting of the defense ministers of the South-East European Cooperation Process was held in Budva, Montenegro on 14-15 March 2011.
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Quarterly report by RCC Secretary General Hido Biscevic
08 MARCH 2011 | REPORT
The report covers the period from 4 December 2010 to 4 March 2011, and reflects progress in implementation of the RCC Strategy and Work Programme 2011-2013.
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Welcoming speech by the RCC Secretary General, Hido Biscevic, at a panel discussion ‘South East Europe in 2011 and Beyond: Sharing the Same Vision’
07 MARCH 2011 | SPEECH
The panel discussion was held in Sarajevo, BiH, on 7 March 2011, to mark the third anniversary of the Regional Cooperation Council.
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Address by the Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council, Hido Biscevic, at the informal meeting of the SEECP Ministers of Foreign Affairs
28 JANUARY 2011 | SPEECH
The informal meeting of the South-East European Cooperation Process (SEECP) Ministers of Foreign Affairs took place on 28 January 2011, in Becici/Budva, Montenegro
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Talking points of Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council, Hido Biscevic, at the meeting of the SEECP Political Directors
27 JANUARY 2011 | SPEECH
The meeting of the South-East European Cooperation Process (SEECP) Political Directors took place on 27 January 2011, in Becici/Budva, Montenegro
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Article by Hido Biščević, Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council, for New Europe weekly
03 JANUARY 2011 | ARTICLE
In the article, Secretary General writes about regional cooperation in South East Europe in 2010.
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Interview by RCC Secretary General Hido Biscevic to Business Magazine
13 DECEMBER 2010 | INTERVIEW
In the interview, the RCC Secretary General talks about the activities of the organization over the past three years, as well as future prospects.
Quarterly report by RCC Secretary General Hido Biscevic
02 DECEMBER 2010 | REPORT
The report covers the period from 11 September to 26 November 2010, and reflects progress in implementation of the RCC Strategy and Work Programme 2011-2013.
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Address by RCC Secretary General Hido Biscevic at the EU-Western Balkans Ministerial Forum on Justice and Home Affairs
23 NOVEMBER 2010 | SPEECH
The address titled “Working Together in Strengthening EU Perspectives: the Role of the RCC” was delivered on 23 November 2010 in Brussels.
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Interview by RCC Secretary General Hido Biscevic to Odbrana, bi-weekly magazine of the Serbian Ministry of Defence
15 NOVEMBER 2010 | INTERVIEW
In the interview, Secretary General Biscevic speaks about the RCC and its activities, and regional cooperation in general with emphasis on security cooperation.
Opening address by RCC Secretary General, Hido Biscevic, at the international conference on digitalization and sustainability of public service media
14 OCTOBER 2010 | SPEECH
The opening address refers to the international conference ‘Addressing Europe’s Digital Divide: Towards Sustainable Public Service Media in South East Europe’, held in RCC Secretariat on 14-15 October 2010.
Article by BiH daily Oslobodjenje featuring Regional Cooperation Council
27 SEPTEMBER 2010 | ARTICLE
The article is about the Strategy and Work Programme 2011-2013 of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC) and carries statements of RCC Secretary General, Hido Biscevic, and his Deputy, Jelica Minic.
Interview by RCC Secretary General Hido Biscevic to RTV Vojvodina/Radio Novi Sad
22 SEPTEMBER 2010 | INTERVIEW
In the interview, the RCC Secretary General talks about the Regional Cooperation Council, its activities so far and the organization’s Strategy and Work Programme 2011-2013.
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Interview by Hido Biscevic, Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council, to BiH daily Oslobodjenje
18 SEPTEMBER 2010 | INTERVIEW
Commentary for EurActiv by Hido Biščević, Secretary General, Regional Cooperation Council
08 JULY 2010 | INTERVIEW
Secretary General Biscevic writes about the new spirit of rapprochement in Western Balkans and the ways it can be advanced, also in light of the RCC strategy for the next three years, endorsed last month by South East European heads of state and government.
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Introductory remarks by RCC Secretary General Hido Biscevic at the second RCC Annual Meeting, Istanbul, Turkey
22 JUNE 2010 | DECLARATION/DECISION
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Strategy and Work Programme of the Regional Cooperation Council for 2011 – 2013
17 JUNE 2010 | REPORT
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Interview by the Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council, Hido Biscevic, to SeeNews
12 MAY 2010 | INTERVIEW
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Interview by Hido Biscevic, Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council, to EurActiv
15 MARCH 2010 | INTERVIEW
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Commentary by RCC Secretary General, Hido Biscevic, for spring 2010 edition of the policy journal Europe’s World
11 MARCH 2010 | INTERVIEW
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Interview by Hido Biscevic, Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council, to BiH news agency ONASA
02 FEBRUARY 2010 | INTERVIEW
Interview by Hido Biscevic, Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council, to Serbian daily Politika
28 JANUARY 2010 | INTERVIEW
Declaration in respect of the Western Balkans Investment Framework
14 DECEMBER 2009 | DECLARATION/DECISION
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Address of the RCC Secretary General, Hido Biščević, at the First Alliance of Civilizations South East Europe Conference in Sarajevo
14 DECEMBER 2009 | SPEECH
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Welcome address by the RCC Secretary General, Hido Biscevic, at the Sarajevo conference on higher education in the Western Balkans
30 OCTOBER 2009 | SPEECH
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BBC Serbia report on Bosnia and Herzegovina, quoting RCC Secretary General Hido Biscevic
22 OCTOBER 2009 | INTERVIEW
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Article by RCC Spokesperson, Dinka Zivalj, for New Europe weekly
18 OCTOBER 2009 | INTERVIEW
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Article by New Europe weekly, featuring Regional Cooperation Council
18 OCTOBER 2009 | INTERVIEW
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Interview by Hido Biscevic, Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council, to Croatian weekly Privredni vjesnik
28 SEPTEMBER 2009 | INTERVIEW
Address by RCC Secretary General Hido Biscevic at ministerial conference on public-private partnerships
25 SEPTEMBER 2009 | SPEECH
The conference examined the opportunities, risks, and constraints to public-private partnership development in South East Europe, as well as the role these partnerships could potentially play in the context of national and regional development strategies.
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Article in Croatian weekly Globus, with Regional Cooperation Council references
04 SEPTEMBER 2009 | INTERVIEW
Overview of key activities of RCC Secretariat, July – August 2009
02 SEPTEMBER 2009 | REPORT
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Article by Croatian weekly Nacional on Regional Cooperation Council, featuring Secretary General Hido Biscevic
14 JULY 2009 | ARTICLE
Croatia's leading political weekly Nacional gives an overview of the Regional Cooperation Council and its activities, imbedding segments of an interview with the RCC Secretary General Hido Biscevic into the article.
Address by RCC Secretary General Hido Biscevic at The Croatia Summit 2009
10 JULY 2009 | SPEECH
Description: The theme of the Croatia Summit 2009, held in Dubrovnik, was “Europe’s Strategic Imperative: Energy, Investment and Development”.
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Article by RCC Secretary General, Hido Biscevic, to the Czech monthly International Politics (Mezinarodni Politika)
30 JUNE 2009 | INTERVIEW
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Interview by RCC Secretary General Hido Biscevic to Dutch newspaper De Volkskrant
26 JUNE 2009 | INTERVIEW
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Article by Deutsche Welle, featuring Regional Cooperation Council
10 JUNE 2009 | INTERVIEW
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Chisinau Declaration of the 12th Meeting of the Heads of State and Government of the South East European Cooperation Process
05 JUNE 2009 | DECLARATION/DECISION
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Chisinau Joint Statement of the Heads of State and Government of the South East European Cooperation Process
05 JUNE 2009 | DECLARATION/DECISION
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Introductory remarks by RCC Secretary General Hido Biščević at the first RCC Annual Meeting, Chisinau, Republic of Moldova
04 JUNE 2009 | SPEECH
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Annual Report of the Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council on regional co-operation in South East Europe
14 MAY 2009 | REPORT
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Interview by Hido Biscevic, Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council, to Radio Free Europe
15 FEBRUARY 2009 | INTERVIEW
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Interview by Hido Biscevic, Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council, to Skopje daily Nova Makedonija
11 FEBRUARY 2009 | INTERVIEW
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Interview by Hido Biscevic, Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council, to BBC Serbia
04 FEBRUARY 2009 | INTERVIEW
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Interview by Hido Biscevic, Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council, to BiH news agency FENA
15 JANUARY 2009 | INTERVIEW
Article by Radio Free Europe featuring RCC Secretary General Hido Biscevic
12 JANUARY 2009 | INTERVIEW
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Quarterly report by RCC Secretary General Hido Biscevic
12 DECEMBER 2008 | REPORT
Report to the RCC Board on the activities of the RCC Secretariat, for the period 1 October-5 December 2008.
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Interview by Hido Biscevic, Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council to Montenegrin news agency MINA
23 NOVEMBER 2008 | INTERVIEW
Interview by RCC Secretary General Hido Biscevic to Serbian quarterly Medjunarodna politika
11 NOVEMBER 2008 | INTERVIEW
Interview by Hido Biscevic, Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council to Serbian News Agency BETA, audio, 28 October 2008
29 OCTOBER 2008 | INTERVIEW
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Interview by Hido Biscevic, Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council, to Skopje daily Dnevnik
27 OCTOBER 2008 | INTERVIEW
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Article by Montenegrin weekly Monitor featuring RCC Secretary General Hido Biscevic
24 OCTOBER 2008 | INTERVIEW
Article by BiH daily Oslobodjenje featuring RCC Secretary General Hido Biscevic
20 SEPTEMBER 2008 | INTERVIEW
Interview by Hido Biscevic, Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council, to Radio Multikulti
09 SEPTEMBER 2008 | INTERVIEW
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Interview by Hido Biscevic, Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council, to BiH daily Dnevni list
15 JULY 2008 | INTERVIEW
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RCC Secretary General Hido Biscevic’s interview to Politika daily
10 JULY 2008 | INTERVIEW
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Activities of the RCC Secretary General and the RCC Secretariat (January - June 2008)
29 MAY 2008 | INFORMATION MATERIAL
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Address of the RCC Secretary General Hido Biscevic at the SEECP Summit
21 MAY 2008 | SPEECH
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Address of RCC Secretary General Hido Biscevic at the meeting of SEECP Foreign Ministers
20 MAY 2008 | SPEECH
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Interview by RCC Secretary General Hido Biscevic to Greek daily Kathimerini
30 APRIL 2008 | INTERVIEW
Statement by RCC Secretary General Hido Biscevic to BiH news agency FENA
28 APRIL 2008 | INTERVIEW
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Interview by RCC Secretary General Hido Biscevic to BiH daily Dnevni avaz
25 APRIL 2008 | INTERVIEW
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Statement by RCC Secretary General Hido Biscevic to BiH news agency FENA
18 APRIL 2008 | INTERVIEW
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Interview by RCC Secretary General Hido Biscevic to Russian daily Kommersant, in Russian
18 APRIL 2008 | INTERVIEW
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Interview by RCC Secretary General Hido Biscevic to Bosnia-Herzegovina news agency ONASA
09 APRIL 2008 | INTERVIEW
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Declaration on RCC establishment, its participants, and Statute
27 FEBRUARY 2008 | DECLARATION/DECISION
Annex I and Annex II amended by the RCC Board on 28 February 2013
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