President Rafuna at the Growth Plan Summit in Skopje: Private Sector Must Be a Core Partner in Regional Reform and EU Integration
President of the Western Balkans Six Chamber Investment Forum’s Managing Board and President of the Kosovo Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Lulzim Rafuna, participated in the Growth Plan Summit held in Skopje, gathering Western Balkans leaders, ministers, and high-level EU representatives.
The summit, held in light of the EU’s €6 billion Growth Plan for the Western Balkans, served as a key platform for reaffirming commitment to regional cooperation, structural reforms, and deeper economic integration with the European Union. Discussions focused on accelerating the implementation of the Common Regional Market, enhancing connectivity, and supporting sustainable growth.
Representing the voice of more than 350,000 companies and nearly 7 million workers across the region, President Rafuna addressed the audience on behalf of WB6 CIF, stressing that businesses must not be sidelined in the EU accession process. He emphasized that the private sector is not a passive beneficiary but an active driver of innovation, resilience, and regional progress.
In his remarks, Mr. Rafuna presented concrete proposals to ensure the Growth Plan delivers real impact, including:
– Establishing institutionalized public-
– Removing non-tariff barriers and ensuring legal certainty and fair treatment for companies
– Fast-tracking transport and digital infrastructure investments and expanding Green Lanes
– Supporting youth, women in business, and green and digital transition initiatives
– Advancing mutual recognition of standards and adoption of the ACAA agreement
“The Growth Plan is not just a policy document — it is a unique opportunity to transform our region. Regional integration is not a detour from EU accession. It is the fast track,” Rafuna highlighted.
The Summit concluded with strong political support for continuing regional efforts in line with the Common Regional Market agenda, reaffirming the importance of joint commitment to reforms, connectivity, and inclusive economic growth — all priorities consistently championed by WB6 CIF.
