Gratitude and Leadership Acknowledgement
I extend my sincere appreciation to our distinguished hosts for uniting us today and for their leadership of the Berlin Process this year.
During the previous year, under the UK’s chairmanship, we clearly established that the security, stability, and prosperity of this region are inextricably linked to the broader framework of Europe.
Focusing on Security
This principle lies at the core of the Berlin Process. The security of both the region and Europe is currently facing significant challenges. As articulated by my Prime Minister in New York last week, we must innovate our approaches to address the increasing forces of division and instability.
A cohesive and strategic Euro-Atlantic perspective is essential. This outlook remains a potent catalyst for peace, stability, and collaboration. By reinforcing structural Euro-Atlantic security links with the region, we enhance our collective resilience.
Our shared values underpin this perspective and our collaborative security efforts: the maintenance of resilient democracies, respect for international institutions, and a firm stand against division.
Last year, we collectively pledged in Northern Ireland to foster trust, respect, and peaceful resolutions to outstanding issues, ensuring that bilateral differences do not hinder regional progress. The commitments we made in the Hillsborough Castle Declaration on Good Neighbourly Relations hold significant weight, especially when tested. Victims of war crimes deserve our utmost respect, compassion, and accountability. Concurrently, we continue to advance the Northern Ireland initiative from last year’s Berlin Process, sharing best practices in inter-community reconciliation.
Importance of Practical Cooperation
Practical cooperation, both within the region and with external partners, is vital. Issues such as cyber-attacks, disinformation, foreign interference, irregular migration, and organised crime transcend borders. None of us can effectively address these challenges in isolation.
This is why the UK is backing the establishment of the Western Balkans Cyber Capacity Centre here in Montenegro and collaborating with regional partners to counter foreign information manipulation and interference.
Furthermore, we place significant emphasis on practical cooperation concerning migration and organised crime, particularly through the initiatives of the Berlin Process Border Police Chiefs’ Forum.
Promoting Economic Convergence
Secondly, the Berlin Process should aim for convergence. The success of this initiative ought to be measured by the tangible changes experienced by citizens.
I am pleased to see this year’s emphasis on fostering robust and sustainable economic growth. Economic growth, investment, and infrastructure connectivity are the bedrock of shared prosperity and serve to enhance regional security and stability. The UK is prepared to contribute to this effort. Our export credit agency has increased its risk appetite for the region, thus facilitating support for multinational coalitions and projects.
When faced with common threats to our competitiveness, our response should be collaboration rather than protectionism. European nations must dismantle barriers to trade and investment, both with the EU and amongst themselves, to fortify our collective resilience.
We welcome the ongoing collaboration between the UK and the EU to integrate energy markets, and we are eager to share our experiences with Western Balkan partners, particularly regarding the design of Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanisms.
Envisioning a European Future for Youth
Lastly, the Berlin Process should be oriented towards envisioning a European future. It is essential for young people to see their European future as a tangible reality rather than relying solely on our assurances.
This requires the creation of jobs and economic opportunities, promoting resilient and sustainable growth, and fostering international cooperation that yields concrete improvements in their daily lives.
It also necessitates the establishment of societies where all young individuals can fully participate and thrive. Addressing the unacceptable violence and inequalities faced by women is paramount, as these issues inflict lasting harm on both individuals and communities, ultimately deterring participation in economic, political, and civic life.
We prioritised gender equality and inclusion last year and welcome the recent commitment to enhance cooperation among institutions in Western Balkan countries on these matters. We strongly encourage the full implementation of relevant European conventions and directives aimed at combating violence against women and girls.
Evaluating Our Progress
Esteemed colleagues, I propose a straightforward criterion for our endeavours within the Berlin Process: does our work contribute to making this region more secure, connected, prosperous, and resilient? Does it instil greater confidence in the younger generation that their future lies here, as part of Europe?
If we can affirmatively answer these questions, the Berlin Process will continue to play a crucial role in our collective journey. The United Kingdom remains committed to being an active partner in this vital endeavour.
Thank you.