Rama highlighted the connection between economic development of the country and the reduction of emigration. He said that when investments come, emigration decreases. When economies grow, of course, borders will matter less. When opportunities increase at home, Europe will become a destination for cooperation, not an escape route.”

According to him, the present-day Western Balkans is showing that it is more stable and predictable than it was perceived for years.

“For years, we have been qualified as unstable, unpredictable, very complicated, but the present-day facts show the opposite. We are confirming through reforms and investments that the Western Balkans is not Europe’s weak point, but Europe’s opportunity. Here’s a new market, a skilled workforce and a strategic location. Our region will grow with Europe and not at the expense of Europe.”

The prime minister emphasized that the region is moving away from the periphery and is positioning itself at the center of the European history.

“We are moving from the edges of the map to the center of our European history also through the economy. Europe is not something we are waiting for, Europe is something we are building.”

Further on, the prime minister underlined that the countries of the region do not ask for favors, but produce results and the work well-done.

“Western Balkans appears today with pride offering values and sweat and blood. Thanks God, there is no need for blood,” Rama said.

He addressed the citizens of the region, emphasizing that the path to the EU is being made with tangible results.

“We are not praying to join the EU and we are not begging for alms. We are proving more and more every day that we are ready. We are not just talking, we are yielding results,” Rama said.

Rama added that convergence between the EU and the Western Balkans is essential for strengthening the entire continent:

“In convergence with the Western Balkans, Europe becomes stronger. If the Western Balkans stagnates, then Europe becomes weaker. There is no option for a stronger Europe with a weak Balkan region in the middle of it.”

In conclusion, the prime minister emphasized the willingness of the countries of the region to enter the European Union not as passive beneficiaries, but as contributors to European security and development.

“We will continue to make progress until the Western Balkans joins the EU not as guests, but as contributors to its security, economy and future,” said Rama.

“It always works to choose someone from the Balkans when it’s a question of security. And if it’s a question of European security, choose again someone from the Balkans. We can be the bodyguards of Europe and then Europe will feel safer, much, much more peaceful in its sleep,” emphasized Rama. /gj.m/j.p/p.s./