Pata: The US trade war with the EU and China could activate the Open Balkan

Ili Pata
Source: Kosovo Online

The chief editor of the media platform Tema from Tirana, Ili Pata, told Kosovo Online that he expects the return of Donald Trump to the White House to spark new discussions about activating the Open Balkan initiative with the aim of establishing free trade.

"The reactivation of Open Balkan would occur within the context of the US trade war with the EU and China, and we might also see an increase in American investments in our region, which would stimulate economic growth. I believe there will be developments in this direction because it is clear that nearly every government in the Balkans, except for Kosovo’s Prime Minister Albin Kurti, has good relations with Trump's associates. This includes Belgrade, Republika Srpska, North Macedonia, and Tirana," Pata said.

In his opinion, Donald Trump’s return to the White House will completely change the course of events, especially in the Balkans, but also globally.

"This was evident from the phone conversation Mr. Trump had with Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic. I believe the Balkans will enter a 'new game' along with other sensitive areas of the world, such as the Middle East, Ukraine, or US relations with Russia. It is no coincidence that Mr. Vucic is visiting Moscow after many years. I think the issues of the Kosovo-Serbia agreement regarding Gazivode and economic cooperation will be reopened," Pata stated.