CICES International affirms its commitment to building sustainable and ambitious partnerships with the Western Balkans countries, supporting local dynamics of innovation, responsible governance, and inclusive development. In this region seeking stability and European integration, CICES aims to act as a catalyst for cooperation, working closely with institutional, economic, and social stakeholders.

Federica Mogherini emphasized this strongly in March 2018 before the European Parliament: « We are facing a reality that the Western Balkans are European. … The people – especially the younger generations – are determined to see their future inside the European Union… ».

This statement was made within the framework of the European Union’s strategy for a credible enlargement to the Western Balkans, reaffirming the geopolitical and human importance of the region for the future of the continent. This observation strengthens our conviction: investing in the Balkans means supporting a deep-rooted desire for European integration by backing initiatives that embody transparency, innovation, and the rule of law.

Kosovo strongly embodies this momentum. As a young democracy in development, the country stands out for its commitment to combining sovereignty, transparency, and modernity. Its collaboration with CICES reflects a shared desire to promote innovative and exemplary practices, in accordance with the principles of the rule of law and citizen participation.
This dynamic marks a significant milestone in CICES’s presence in the Western Balkans, with the aim of strengthening regional dialogue and fostering projects that are meaningful and transformative.

Mogherini, F. (2018, February 6). Speech by High Representative/Vice-President Federica Mogherini at the European Parliament plenary session on the Western Balkans strategy. European External Action Service.

Source : https://www.eeas.europa.eu/node/39451_en

At the heart of the Balkans, Kosovo embodies both the complexity of recent history and the hope for a democratic future. Since declaring independence in 2008, it has been pursuing international recognition and European integration, despite ongoing tensions with Serbia.

The government of Albin Kurti, committed to the rule of law, is pursuing an ambitious modernization policy. This momentum is palpable, especially among the new generation: with 75% of the population under the age of 37 and a mobilized diaspora, youth are the driving force of the country.

Young people dream of major events on their soil: concerts, competitions, sports events, and especially the Mediterranean Games of 2030, which will be held in Pristina, a strong symbol of their openness to the world. Challenges remain numerous, but progress is visible. The goal is clear: to make Kosovo a young, democratic state firmly oriented towards the future.

The CICES had the honor of contributing to the organization, in Paris, of the 1st France-Kosovo Economic Forum, attended by the Prime Minister of Kosovo, Mr. Albin Kurti, accompanied by four members of his government. This event marks a significant milestone in the development of bilateral economic relations between France and Kosovo.

Mr. Benjamin Haddad, Minister Delegate for Europe, reaffirmed France’s strategic interest in this cooperation and emphasized the importance of supporting economic dynamics in countries committed to the path of democratic transition.

By facilitating this meeting, the CICES confirms its commitment to being a proactive force and an operational player serving transitioning states, eager to engage in responsible economic development based on the principles of innovation, partnership, and inclusion.

This forum fully embodies the mission of CICES: to build bridges between public and private stakeholders, promote sustainable investments, and support economic transformation pathways within a framework of trust and cooperation.

The Mediterranean Games, created in 1951 at the initiative of the International Olympic Committee, bring together approximately 26 countries from the three shores of the Mediterranean (Europe, North Africa, Middle East). Held every four years, they promote sports, cultural, and diplomatic cooperation in a region marked by historical tensions.

Kosovo, a member of the International Committee of Mediterranean Games (CIJM) since 2015, is preparing to host this major event for the first time in 2030. With between 25 and 30 sports disciplines and an expected attendance of nearly 3,000 to 5,000 athletes, these Games will be an exceptional showcase for Kosovan youth and a key step towards enhanced international recognition.

Beyond sports, this organization represents an opportunity for urban development, social inclusion, and strengthening national sentiment in a complex geopolitical context. It will also help promote regional cooperation and affirm Kosovo’s presence in the Mediterranean, while advocating for values of inclusion, transparency, and peace.