Kick-off Event Marking the Launch of Phase II of Swiss Financial Support to the Western Balkans Fund (WBF) for the 2026-2029 Period

Organized by the Embassy of the Swiss Confederation in Tirana, a kick-off event marking the launch of Phase II of Swiss financial support to the Western Balkans Fund (WBF) was held on 8 May 2026. The event brought together representatives of the WBF contracting parties, diplomatic missions, regional partners, and the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), with the aim of presenting the results achieved during the first phase of support, defining strategic priorities for the 2026-2029 period, and exchanging experiences with WBF grant beneficiaries.

As part of the second phase, financial support amounting to approximately CHF 1 million is envisaged for the 2026-2029 period. This contribution will further support the institutional strengthening of the Western Balkans Fund, the diversification of its grant schemes, as well as the expansion of its activities and long-term sustainability.

On behalf of Montenegro’s Presidency of the WBF, Ms. Vana Đurašević, First Counsellor at the Embassy of Montenegro in Tirana, addressed the participants, expressing gratitude to Switzerland as one of the first partners to recognize the importance of this regional initiative. She emphasized that the WBF holds particular significance for the region, primarily due to the principles of regional ownership, trust-building, and the promotion of good neighbourly relations. She reaffirmed Montenegro’s full commitment to strengthening the institution of the Fund, enhancing its visibility and relevance in the region, as well as its readiness to further promote the Fund’s activities during Montenegro’s current presidency.

Ms. Đurašević also highlighted that Montenegro pays special attention to the Gender Equality Fund, recently established within the WBF, recognizing its importance for advancing inclusive policies, empowering women, and strengthening regional cooperation.