The Regional Cooperation Council (RCC) is set to present and the Western Balkan Six leaders are expected to endorse the second phase of the Common Regional Market (CRM2) at this year’s Berlin Process Summit that is to be held on October 14 in Berlin. This phase aims to deepen regional integration by bringing Western Balkan Six closer to the EU's single market, focusing on four key freedoms: the free movement of goods, services, capital, and people. CRM2 will prioritize the development of human capital by addressing the skills gap, fostering research and innovation, and improving the business-enabling environment and competitiveness—all with a strong emphasis on green, sustainable investments. Additionally, it will focus on digitalization, the digital economy, and cybersecurity. The plan aims to tackle critical regional challenges, such as brain drain and the need for upskilling the local workforce.

This presentation at the Berlin Summit highlights the importance of CRM2 in supporting the region’s economic development and EU accession prospects. The RCC, in collaboration with regional and international partners, has ensured that the updated CRM Action Plan is more comprehensive and tailored to the evolving needs of the Western Balkans Six, positioning it as a cornerstone of the region’s integration efforts.