The Common Platform was endorsed 22 May 2003 in Ohrid at a conference hosted by the Macedonian Government and supported by NATO, EU, OSCE and the Stability Pact. The Common Platform is a declaration of principles regarding border management. The Western Balkans will engage in a reform process in order to establish open but secure borders. They will do so following EU standards on border management and they will enjoy the support of international organisations on their way. Special Co-ordinator Erhard Busek lauded the results of the conference: “Given the sensitivity of border issues, it must be seen as a major achievement that the Western Balkans join forces dealing with the topic. I particularly welcome that this is done along EU standards, which is very logical, since the countries want to join the European Union. The strong international support by the EU, NATO and OSCE gives the clear signal that the problematic aspects of insecure borders with negative implications from organised crime, smuggling and hindering cross border trade are going to be tackled.”

On the second day of the conference (23 may), participants will elaborate an action plan so that the process, which was today politically launched in Ohrid, will have its technical follow up. Speech of Special Co-ordinator Busek

Common Platform