From 13-14 October 2025, Tirana welcomed for the first time the EU-Western Balkans Investment Forum, a prominent high-level event, supported by the European Commission. This forum brought together policymakers, business leaders, investors, and development partners from across the region and the European Union, with the intent of strengthening economic cooperation and investment opportunities.
For YEAs, this event was an insightful opportunity to deepen their knowledge on how strategic partnerships and investment initiatives can contribute to long-term development and the EU accession of the Western Balkans. Seven of them, Anisa Doci, Bjant Çami, Fiona Keçi, Maria Zharanjaku, Mina Milovic, Paola Pesjaka and Sara Kenuti, took an active role in participating and promoting the work of the YEA network.
During the first day, participants were welcomed by the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, who affirmed her strong and unwavering support towards the innovative potential and economic growth of the Western Balkans. The event featured additional panels on investment opportunities in the evolving geopolitical landscape and emerging sources of high-potential competitiveness, alongside in-depth business sessions with government and corporate representatives.
An important highlight of this event was the Hackathon, an engaging platform where young tech enthusiasts showcased projects and ideas designed to improve services and infrastructure, using AI-based solutions for real social challenges.
For YEAs, this experience was both enriching and inspiring, offering valuable insights into digital innovation, manufacturing and circular economy. Moreover, the forum created a valuable space for accelerating thought leadership on current challenges and efforts in shaping the region’s economic sustainable future.
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