Meeting with State Secretary Johann Saathoff (BMZ)

A strong step forward in deepening cooperation between the Western Balkans 6 Chamber Investment Forum (WB6 CIF) and the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development of Germany (BMZ).

A highly constructive meeting was held between Lulzim Rafuna, President of the Western Balkans Six Chamber Investment Forum Managing Board, Johann Saathoff, State Secretary of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), and David Piegazki, WB6 CIF Secretary General.

The discussion reaffirmed the joint commitment to strengthening economic cooperation between Germany and the Western Balkans, particularly through initiatives that enhance regional competitiveness and private sector development.

During the meeting, both sides highlighted the importance of the “extended German workbench” concept as a forward-looking approach to fostering sustainable industrial cooperation and job creation across the region. This model aims to deepen integration of the Western Balkans into European value chains and further connect regional enterprises with the German market.

The Regional Challenge Fund (RCF) was recognized as one of the most successful initiatives supported by BMZ and KfW. The Fund has become a true milestone for the region, supporting economic development through dual education, vocational training, and closer cooperation between businesses and training institutions.

In close coordination, new projects and joint initiatives with GIZ will be launched in the near future, focusing on strengthening skills, innovation, and investment readiness across the Western Balkans. These initiatives will continue to build on the shared vision of a stronger, more competitive regional economy aligned with European standards and sustainable growth goals.