Commissioner Gabriel to participate in Western Balkans Ministerial Conference on Education & Training and Research & Innovation

Tomorrow, on 2 December, Commissioner for Innovation, Research, Culture, Education and Youth, Mariya Gabriel, will take part in the virtual ministerial meeting of the Western Balkans Platforms on Education & Training and Research & Innovation, where she will set out her vision for a Western Balkans Agenda in these areas. Ahead of the conference, Commissioner Gabriel said: “Strong cooperation with the Western Balkans has always been at the core of my work, first as Commissioner for digital economy and society and now as Commissioner responsible for research, innovation, education, culture, youth and sport. I look forward to strengthening further our cooperation in these fields and achieving tangible results for citizens, for the economy and for society. It is important to join forces to fully unlock the talent of the region and its potential, while accelerating the green and digital transitions.” The Western Balkans Agenda on Innovation, Research, Education, Culture, Youth and Sport, to be discussed with Ministers tomorrow, is a comprehensive, long-term strategy to support reaching the goals of the Commission’s October 2020 Economic and Investment Plan for the Western Balkans. It will be essential for enhancing human capital development and nurturing a knowledge-based society, for encouraging brain circulation, and ultimately fostering a sustainable innovation ecosystem and a long-term sustainable economy in the region. It will lay the foundations for evidence-based policymaking and promote inclusive and high quality education and training systems, with a view to offering new opportunities for the young people in the region. More information is available in this factsheet.