Western Balkans Road Summit, “Shaping the future: safe, smart and sustainable roads”
The Region Commits to Building of Modern and Safe Roads
Development of the indicative extension of TEN-T Road Network to the Western Balkans in full compliance with TEN-T standards will bring the region closer together and integrate it with the European Union. This was recognised as key priority of the “Dedication to Roads of the Future”, signed on 7 June 2022 by ministers in charge of transport at the Western Balkans Road Summit held in Tirana. The summit, which was organised by the Transport Community Permanent Secretariat, the European Investment Bank (EIB) and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), and under the auspices of the Ministry of Infrastructure and Energy of Albania, gathered ministers from the Western Balkans and neighboring countries, representatives of the European Commission and road professionals for discussions on how to create a climate resilient, intelligent, and resource-efficient road network in the Western Balkans. The authorities committed to a number of priorities including to set in place road maintenance systems, to work together on e-tolling interoperability and build e-charging stations across the region.
Government in the region remain committed to development of a sustainable road transport network, while at the same time promoting green mobility, climate proofing of road networks and deployment of emission zero fuels. Greening of road transport must go hand in hand with improved road safety. Building of safe infrastructure and protection of road users remain the priority. Road Summit participants expressed dedication to making the road sector a socially fair one, by focusing on workers’ fundamental rights and healthy and safe working environment. Promoting a more inclusive, diverse and gender-balanced road sector will attract youth and offer better services for businesses and people.
